Over 40 percent of all U.S. households own at least one dog. Dogs are more than pets to most people; they are family. Although dogs are shown love and treated like family members, they are still animals; some can get upset and bite.
There are many reasons that a dog can bite someone. They may feel antagonized, afraid, or may be protecting their territory or owner. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has stated that more than 4 million people each year suffer a serious dog bite or attack, many of which are children.
Victims of dog bites can suffer from physical and emotional trauma. Scaring from the attack can lead to permanent disfigurement. Injuries caused by dog attacks can also require surgery and physical therapy to heal.
Who Is Held Responsible For My Dog Bite Injuries?
The dog owner is held responsible for any attacks by their pet. The owner is still responsible even if the dog is not on their property when the attack occurs.
Some states have “first bite free” laws that will overlook the first time a dog bites someone as an accident. However, these laws do not apply if the dog viciously attacks a person or if the animal owner knows that the dog has the potential to attack.
Many states have unique laws dealing with known aggressive animals like dog bite laws and others. If you have been attacked by a vicious dog and were injured, you must speak with a dog bite attorney about your case to file a claim for compensation.
How Do I Pay For A Personal Injury Attorney?
If a dog has attacked you and needs the help of a dog bite attorney, do not hesitate to make an appointment for a free consultation. Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis. This means you do not have to pay legal costs unless your attorney wins your case.
Working on a contingency basis ensures everyone has access to a personal injury lawyer in their time of need.
What Do I Do – My Family Member Owns the Dog That Attacked Me?
An animal attack is already a very stressful situation. Add to this the fact that a family member or friend owned the animal who made the attack, and you may struggle with what to do next.
The medical bills from the dog attack are expensive. You need help to cover these expenses. The trauma you experienced from the attack is very real. You need help but don’t want to sue someone close to you and cause more problems.
It is okay. There is a way to manage this challenging situation.
Speak with a dog bite attorney about your case. Then, speak with your loved one to know that you will have an attorney manage your claim against their insurance. Tell them that this is the perfect way to keep the claim from being personal. The attorneys for you and the insurance company can “hash things out,” and neither you, your loved one, or your friend will have to worry about the compensation.
It is always important to remember that the insurance company will pay the compensation, not your friend or family. That is why we have insurance coverage to cover accidents and unexpected events.
Make Sure The Insurance Company Treats You Fairly
One of the main reasons you want to work with a dog bite lawyer is to protect your rights as a victim. Insurance companies often undervalue dog bite claims.
When you work with an attorney, they will ensure that all of your medical costs are covered, that you receive all the medical care you need to recover, and that the compensation package covers any other losses you have endured. Your attorney will also ensure that your non-economic damages are reasonable, such as coverage for pain, suffering, and disfigurement.
Do not let the insurance company belittle such a traumatic experience. If a vicious animal has injured you, you have the right to receive compensation.
Speak With A Dog Bite Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured in a dog bite incident, it’s important to know your rights. Speak with a dog bite attorney today to discuss your case and seek the compensation you deserve.