Legal Question in Personal Injury in California
animal attack
My new neighbors German Shepard attacked me ripping my clothes and puncturing back of right thigh. Bruising on right thigh and constant pain in both hips. Neighbors took me to urgent care and verbally abused me the whole time, saying its not that bad, you can still work, dont fake it.....female neighbor followed me into medical facility wanting to fight me in the waiting room! they had to escort her out. Doctor gave me a tetnus shot, washed out wound and gave me a script for meds that make me so sick, I have to take them for 10 days. Neighbors refuse to reimburse me for lost wages or torn clothes. What can I do?
5 Answers from Attorneys
Re: animal attack
As others have noted, you can hire a lawyer. Another option is to sue the neighbors in small claims court, where everyone represents themselves. Small claims court can award no more than $7,500 (plus interest and court costs), but that amount would probably be sufficient to compensate you. A lawyer might (or might not) be able to get more for you, but his fees and the costs of litigating in the superior court would likely exceed the additional recovery.
Re: animal attack
Does the animal have a provable history of violence? Can you probe the owners were negligent in controlling the animal?
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Re: animal attack
If your neighbors own their home, they may have a policy of homeowner's insurance which may cover your injuries, lost work and pain and suffering. You should have an attorney look into this for you.
Re: animal attack
I agree with Mr. Mccoy. Retain an attorney and let him/her take care of this.
Re: animal attack
Hire an attorney.