Legal Question in Personal Injury in Michigan

I have a chihuahua mix that is about 4 years old and UTD on all shots. Back in April one of my younger siblings friends came over and knocked on the door. My sibling opened the door and let him in before anyone could get a hold of the dog. The dog bit the kid on his leg and did draw blood. My mom immediately contacted the child's mother and gave her the proof of rabies vaccine. My mom offered to pay any hospital bills for the child and the child's mother said not to worry about it. Now, 5 months later the mother shows up at my house with a hospital bill for $122 and hands it to me telling me that we have to pay it. Now I don't mind paying it, but there is no proof on this bill that it is from my dog biting him. It just says it is the past due amount for that child's account.

I am planning on asking her for a paper or something showing this amount is for the one incident, and not from other bills she hasn't paid. Also, should I write up a contract or anything to make sure she doesn't come after me for anything else? And if I do write a contract, what should I include in it? Am I even obligated to pay this bill now given the circumstances?


Asked on 9/07/10, 7:34 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Shelly Schellenberg MI & FL private practice

You are smart to agree to pay this bill, providing that the bill was for treatment of the dog bite. Tell her that she needs to submit a copy of the hospital's account records showing the date of the visit and the purpose of the visit. If you decide you need a contract to avoid future claims, you may want to have a general practice attorney draft a settlement agreement.

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Answered on 9/12/10, 7:48 am
Timothy Klisz Klisz Law Office, PLLC

Unless it was over three years ago, the parents could be suing you for pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring and more. Paying a $122 bill would be the least of your problems. Of course, it would be covered by homeowners insurance. An agreement would be a very good idea. kliszlaw.com. Tim Klisz

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Answered on 9/12/10, 7:42 pm


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