Shortly after a dog bite, you may get a friendly call from the dog owner’s insurance company. The adjuster may sound sympathetic and helpful. But their job is to close your claim for as little as possible. Here’s what to watch for.
Common insurance adjuster tactics
- Asking for a recorded statement. Questions are often designed to suggest you provoked the dog, weren’t lawfully on the property, or aren’t badly hurt. You don’t have to give one.
- A quick, early offer. Offers made before your wound heals — and before scarring and future treatment are known — are almost always too low. Once you accept, you can’t ask for more.
- Broad medical authorizations. Signing a blanket release can give the insurer your entire medical history to look for something to blame.
- Blaming you. Suggesting you startled, petted or provoked the dog.
- Minimizing the injury. Calling a deep bite “a scratch,” or pointing to gaps in your treatment.
- Watching social media. Posts and photos can be taken out of context.
What to say if the adjuster calls
You can politely say: “I’m still getting medical care. Please send me your contact information in writing, and my attorney will be in touch.” That’s enough.
Why having a lawyer changes the conversation
Once we represent you, the adjuster deals with us, not you. We document the full extent of your injuries, identify every applicable policy, and present a demand backed by evidence. We recently resolved a Michigan dog bite claim for a six-figure settlement in 30 days. (Every case is different, and prior results don’t guarantee a similar outcome.)