Re: [PyrNet-L] Need an opinion

[MagEBroD@aol.com]

In a message dated 11/8/98 6:36:30 PM Pacific Standard Time, warrickw@bond.net
writes:

<< Tracey,  I would strongly recommend not saying anything to the owner
 about a law suit etc until you know what the cost of that tooth will be
 and whether or not your son will suffer any lasting effects from the
 incident.
 
 Put them on notice and leave it at that.  You might feel differently
 depending on the response you get from the storekeeper.
  >>
   From a legal standpoint it is important to report these things and document
them and also to inform the responsible parties. It doesn't matter what
reaction you get from the dog owners. Their homeowners insurance co. is the
one that matters!!  Plus even if you want to pay for it yourself your own
insurance may pay more if you get emergency treatment fast within 72 hrs. But
they (your own health insurance ) may insist on getting the other responsible
party to pay (dog owners homeowners insurance co.), so the more you document
and keep accurate records, the better. Plus all the statistics in the world
don't mean a thing if based on incorrect information!! I say it should be
reported. If not for you and your son and your pocketbook or for fairness to
your insurance co. and their customers (who should have responsible party pay,
instead of their rates going up eventually), then for the public's safety. 
   I am not one who is sue-happy either, but I get sick and tired of having to
keep my dog's kenneled or in pens and yet others don't and their's can even
bite people and other dogs and no one cares until the injuries are horrific!!
Maybe if we put our foot down sooner then the horrific injuries wouldn't have
to eventually happen as much. It's the same with car insurance! I have to pay
car insurance and yet others can hit me without insurance required and nothing
seems to happen to them!!! They can continue to drive on a daily basis with no
licence and no insurance!!! And my insurance rates go up to pay for damage
they did!  I can scoop after my dog and be responsible and yet others  who
don't can make it so others cannot take their dogs to those places anymore. I
believe in responsible parties facing the consequences of their actions or
inaction and not the rest of the public who is out there being responsible.
   Now if I am clumsy or not careful or do something and get injured on
someone else's property, then of course I would not do anything. But when you
are injured by someone else's actions through no fault of your own, then I
think you are definitely entitled to have your medical bills and such paid
until you are healed. That is only fair.
Janice Vocke
MagEBroD@aol.com
Shelton, WA.