Dr. Phil’s Dog Bite Case: Harris v. McGraw D.C. Dog Bite Lawyer

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Dr. Phil’s Dog Bite Case: Harris v. McGraw D.C. Dog Bite Lawyer

Television personality Dr. Phil McGraw found himself in hot water in 2013. 

Dog Bite Attorney washinton dc dr phil dog bite caseHis wife invited a friend, Janet Harris, over to their house. Upon arriving, the McGraw’s dog bit Ms. Harris. Rather than seek immediate medical attention at a hospital, Dr. Phil convinced Ms. Harris to let him contact a friend of his – a nurse. The nurse prescribed antibiotics. He did this to avoid short term bad press. 

Dr. Phil’s decision seriously backfired.

Harris developed a bacterial infection that led to permanent hearing loss and tremors in one of her hands; the injuries forced her to shut down her business. 

Harris sued Dr. Phil for $7 million in damages. Her intention was to recover lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. The court denied Dr. Phil’s motion to dismiss, and the case settled in 2013. 

Dog Bite Injuries 

Dog bite injuries range from minor to life threatening. Most are minor cuts, scratches, and bruises. These usually do not require a hospital visit; a band aid and Neosporin should do the trick. 

More serious dog bite injuries are deep wounds and infections. Severe bites can result in torn muscles and ligaments, and may require surgery and stitches. 

The most dangerous possible injury, besides immediate death, from a dog bite is bacterial. Once a dog’s teeth puncture the skin, bacteria is injected into the body. Tetanus, pasteurella, and MRSA are common. 

Tetanus is found in soil and can lead to lockjaw, difficulty swallowing, and occasional death. 

Pasteurella is found in 75% of dog bites. The infection causes redness and inflammation, sometimes abscesses.

MRSA is a deadly infection because it does not respond to common antibiotics. It can lead to skin irritations like blisters and abscesses and can travel to the bloodstream and lungs. 

Rabies is less common, but especially potent. Rabies is spread through the saliva of infected animals. It is fatal if not treated, though most pets are vaccinated. Rabies causes flu-like symptoms, discomfort, cerebral dysfunction, and delirium. 

Homeowners insurance should cover medical costs. To prevail in a suit, you’ll have to show that this was not the first incident with the dog and that the owner was negligent. 

If you’ve been bitten by a dog and injured, contact the attorneys at Cohen & Cohen today immediately. We consider ourselves one of the best attorneys in the Washington, D.C. area based on experience and record, and can help get you the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (202) 955-4529 for a free case evaluation. 

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L Proctor
August 30, 2022.
My experience with Cohen &Cohen was beyond my expectations. Jill did an amazing job with negotiating on my behalf and got me way more money than I anticipated. Thank you for having my back.
Ebony Stoutmiles
June 23, 2022.
To say that I am happy with the outcome of my case is the understatement of the century! Jill Stanley is a BEAST at what she does. That is the only way to explain it. She takes no prisoners. She and her team are very skilled and knowledgeable. I am so happy I trusted them to do their job and rolled with Jill's suggestions. I would choose Jill again 100 times. She settled my case for more than I imagined I would receive. I was literally in tears. It is the best feeling to know my pain isn't for naught. Wayne Cohen and Kristopher Yorke were nothing short of amazing. They have the patience of saints. I'm 100% certain that I got on their last nerves with my frustration and tears at every other call I had with them. Being in pain and wanting to just be able to heal was all I could focus on, but they helped me realize that I also had to focus on the bigger picture (the case) so I could put this piece behind me. As a high-strung individual with anxiety, it was hard for me to not worry and let them do their jobs, but they reassured me all of the time that they had this. To be injured before the start of the pandemic and have to receive regular, weekly treatment while others are able to stay home is anxiety inducing. I was in pain, I was anxious, and I was just hoping it all worked out. It more than worked out. I hope Jill, Siri, and Kris know how much their hard work and "hanging in there" meant to me. I am eternally grateful. I can't recommend you all enough. If you choose this law firm, you won't be sorry!
Beloved Temple
June 3, 2022.
I was very pleased with the handling of my case and settlement with Cohen& Cohen. I appreciate them, would highly recommend them.
willie howell
May 25, 2022.
COHEN & COHEN ARE THE BEST I WAS INVOLVED IN A REAR END CAR CRASH AND 2 YEARS LATER I HAVE RECEIVED MY SETTLEMENT I AM VERY EXCITED TO SAY BRYAN!!! IS THE MAN HE INSURED THEY WILL TAKE CARE OF ME AND THEY DID 100% ANY QUESTIONS I ASKED THEY WERE ANSWERED. Jill and SIRI WAS ALSO REMARKABLE AND SHOWED THEY REALLY CARED I RECOMMEND COHEN &COHEN TO ANYONE THEY ALSO MADE SURE I GOT MORE THAN EXPECTED WHICH WAS AMAZING I APPRECIATE YOU GUYS THANK U💯
Jose Rivera
May 25, 2022.
The legal team at cohen & cohen did a great job I really appreciate the hard work on gating my compensation in a fair amount of time. Special thanks to Kris for a wonderful job
Lea Harvey
May 25, 2022.
I had a great experience with the team at Cohen & Cohen. From my intake attorney, Adam, to the paralegal, Bryan, who worked with me regularly for months to document and prepare my case, to Jill, the attorney who secured my settlement, I feel fortunate to have had their representation and expertise on my side.
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May 19, 2022.
Kris was phenomenal. Spectacular communication & knowledge in regards to my case. Would definitely return if I needed more legal services. 100% definitely recommend.