What to Expect When Negotiating a Dog Bite Claim with Allstate

What Kind of Insurance Policy Covers Dog Bites?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year, and 1 out of 5 of those victims require medical attention. Most dog bite cases involve a claim against the dog owner’s home insurance or renter’s insurance policy.

These types of policies typically cover up to the liability limit, which can be anywhere from $100,000 to $300,000. The dog owner will be responsible for damages that exceed any policy limits.

Starting Low

After you file the claim, an insurance adjuster will reach out to you to start the negotiation process. Just like any other insurance company, Allstate tries to minimize the amount of money it pays out in claims. They will do this by trying to find any weakness in your claim. Be aware that Allstate will use a tough strategy to try and get you to settle your claims for less than they are worth.

Never admit fault in your conversations with the adjuster. Allstate will start by offering you a low-ball settlement for your injuries. They hope that you will take this, but most of the time this first offer is not even enough to cover your expenses. If you don’t accept the initial offer, Allstate changes its approach. You can expect them to engage multiple hardball tactics to avoid paying your claim.

Honesty Is the Best Policy

It will be beneficial to your claim if you state the facts with emotion but avoid exaggerating any part of your story. Don’t omit bad facts that you think will hurt your claim. You should be honest with the insurance company if you want negotiations to continue. They are not required to continue negotiating with you.

Exercise Caution During Recovery

While you are recovering from your dog bite injury, it is important to stay away from any activity the insurance company could use against your claim.

For instance, if you state that you are limited in mobility because of the accident yet you are out jogging around the neighborhood that will hurt your claim. It is good to be aware of the types of activities you engage in while the negotiation of your claim is ongoing.

Get Help from Skilled Dallas Dog Bite Lawyers

At Zinda Law Group, our dog bite attorneys have helped countless bite victims get their lives back on track after suffering an injury.

We have the knowledge and resources to help you pursue maximum recovery for medical bills, loss of income, pain and suffering, and more. We also work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we achieve a favorable settlement, judgment, or verdict for your case.

If you have been injured by a dog bite, call Zinda Law Group at (800) 863-5312 for a free consultation with one of our Dallas dog bite lawyers. Meetings with attorneys by appointment only.