Dogs are known as man’s best friend, but sometimes even the most docile dog can attack without warning. Dog bites can cause serious injuries, including disfigurement, nerve damage, and infection. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
This article will discuss how a lawsuit can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Table of Contents
Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite?
In most states, dog owners are responsible for their pet’s behavior. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner may be liable for any injuries that result.
Some states have what’s called a “one-bite” rule, which means that the owner is only liable if they knew or should have known that their dog had a tendency to bite. Other states have strict liability laws, which means that the owner is always responsible for any injuries their dog causes, regardless of whether or not they knew their dog had a tendency to bite.
What Damages Can You Recover in a Lawsuit?
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to several types of damages in a lawsuit. These can include:
- Medical expenses: This includes the cost of any medical treatment you received as a result of the dog bite, including hospital bills, doctor visits, and medication.
- Lost wages: If you were unable to work as a result of your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes both past and future lost wages.
- Pain and suffering: Dog bites can be very painful and can cause emotional distress. You may be entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering.
- Property damage: If the dog damaged any of your personal property, such as clothing or a phone, you may be entitled to compensation for the cost of repair or replacement.
How Can You Prove Liability in a Dog Bite Lawsuit?
To prove liability in a dog bite lawsuit, you’ll need to show that the owner was negligent in some way. Negligence can include things like failing to properly restrain the dog, failing to warn others about the dog’s aggressive behavior, or failing to take appropriate action after the dog has bitten someone before.
It’s also important to gather as much evidence as possible to support your case. This can include medical records, witness statements, and photographs of your injuries and the location where the bite occurred.
What Should You Do if You’ve Been Bitten by a Dog?
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s important to take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention: Even if the bite doesn’t seem serious, it’s important to get medical treatment right away. Dog bites can easily become infected, and a healthcare provider can help prevent infection and ensure that the wound is properly cleaned and treated.
- Gather information: Try to gather as much information as possible about the dog and its owner. This includes the owner’s name and contact information, as well as the dog’s breed, color, and any identifying markings.
- Contact an attorney: A personal injury attorney can help you determine whether or not you have a case and can advise you on the best course of action to take.
Contact an Attorney for Help
Dog bites can be very serious and can cause long-term physical and emotional damage. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, it’s important to know your rights and take action to protect yourself.
File your dog bite lawsuit with McCoy & Hiestand, which can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. By gathering evidence and working with an experienced attorney, you can hold the owner of the dog responsible for their actions and get the justice you deserve.
It’s also important to note that dog bite laws can vary from state to state, so it’s important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney who is familiar with the laws in your area. They can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
Featured Photo by Maria Rosenberg: https://www.pexels.com/
With a BA in communications and paralegal experience, Irma Dengler decided to make the best of her writing skills. She decided to turn complicated legal matters into something more palatable for the masses. Therefore, Irma became a law communicator who writes about everyday problems so everyone can understand them and take the appropriate action. She specialized in personal injury cases, as they are more common than anyone thinks, but her areas of expertise also include civil law, criminal law, insurance-related issues, and more.
