Dog bites can be a serious and traumatic event, and if you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, it is important to understand your legal rights and options. Dog bite cases can be complex, and it is often best to seek the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney to help you navigate the legal process. In most cases, the owner of a dog is responsible for any injuries caused by their pet. This is known as strict liability, meaning that the owner is liable for damages regardless of whether they were negligent or not. This means that if you are bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Pursuing a Claim
To pursue a dog bite claim, you will typically need to demonstrate that the owner was aware of the dog’s propensity to bite or had reason to know that the dog posed a risk to others. This may include evidence such as prior incidents of aggression or warning signs, such as a dog that is known to be territorial or aggressive. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a dog bite, even if the injury seems minor. Dog bites can lead to serious infections and other complications, and it is important to document your injuries for the purposes of your legal claim. If you are considering pursuing a dog bite claim, it is important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company or dog owner, and ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the process.
Finding Fault
In some cases, the dog owner may argue that the victim was partially or fully at fault for the incident. This may include arguments that the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or otherwise behaving in a way that contributed to the incident. An attorney can help you build a strong case and refute these arguments to maximize your chances of recovering compensation for your injuries.
Damages
In addition to compensation for medical bills and other damages, dog bite victims may also be entitled to damages for emotional distress, pain and suffering, and other non-economic losses. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve. In some cases, dog bite incidents may result in criminal charges against the dog owner. This may include charges for animal cruelty, negligence, or other offenses. Criminal charges can be pursued by law enforcement or through a private criminal complaint filed by the victim or their attorney.
Professional Help
If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, it is important to take action to protect your legal rights and hold the responsible party accountable for their actions. An experienced personal injury attorney who works on dog bite cases from our firm Cohen & Cohen can help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve.
