Legal Question in Personal Injury in Massachusetts

dog bite

my dog was accused of biting somebody lat yr, this person ''bumped'' into the dog and I while I was walking dog(dog was on leash, next to, not in front of me) 'bite' did not puncture skin, person threatened to injure dog/have dog taken away, wanted $$ for 'pain'-- after consulting my attorney, paid person (who was a minor), after official release signed by person and parent and $$ amt ''that will take care of it'' was paid-- now just rec'd notice that they are bringing legal action (I do not know on what basis and what $$ amt yet) they want my insurance to pay them, my question is: what do I do now, do I trust my insurance company to check out everything, like medical records, psychol. visits (witnesses see this person daily--no loss of activity is seen)will my insur rates increase, can insur co. drop me,should I let insur pay even though I know it is bogus complaint...thank you......


Asked on 5/26/02, 8:28 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Nance Lyons Law Office of Nance Lyons

Re: dog bite

If the claim has already been settled and a release signed, you defend the case by stating that the parties had received an "accord and satisfaction". Why haven't you contacted your prior lawyer - sounds like s/he knew what she was talking about.

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Answered on 5/29/02, 8:33 pm
William McLeod McLeod Law Offices, PC

Re: dog bite

If they (the plaintiffs) signed a release and received the compensation that the release contemplated, and assuming that the release was inclusive of all claims, I would have your lawyer talk to the insurance company. The release should bar the claims. Give your lawyer a call and let them know what's going on.

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Answered on 5/28/02, 11:19 am


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