When you suffer a serious injury due to another person’s negligence, whether it’s a car accident, a slip and fall, or a dog bite, the legal process can be daunting. This process becomes exponentially more complicated, and emotionally fraught, when the negligent party is a friend, family member, or acquaintance. Filing an injury claim against someone you know introduces unique legal and emotional challenges that can easily derail a case or, worse, ruin a relationship. Here’s a look at the two primary hurdles you must navigate when your claim involves an acquaintance. 1. The Emotional Barrier: Fear of Ruining the Relationship The most immediate challenge is the emotional one. Most people are hesitant to “sue” a friend or family member. They fear being seen as greedy, causing financial hardship, or permanently fracturing a close bond. This often leads injured individuals to downplay their injuries or delay seeking legal help entirely. Read the full article…

The single most reliable source of recovery for New Haven dog bite injuries is the homeowner’s insurance policy of the at-fault dog owner. Understanding how this coverage works is key to a successful claim. What Homeowner’s Liability Covers Homeowner’s and Renter’s policies include a liability section specifically designed to cover bodily injury and property damage that the policyholder is legally responsible for. This includes injuries caused by their dog on or off the property. Dog Breed Restrictions: A Major Hurdle A significant factor in these claims is the insurance carrier’s stance on certain dog breeds. Many insurance companies maintain a “Dangerous Dog List” or “Restricted Breed List” (often including Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, etc.) and may: The Lawyer’s Role: If the dog owner’s insurance company initially denies the claim, they may be relying on a breed exclusion. An attorney will investigate: Final Check: The homeowner’s insurance adjuster’s primary goal Read the full article…