If you have ever been a victim of a dog bite, or were the owner of the animal, you know very well that this moment can become stressful and bewildering, which is why it is important to have the support of a dog bite attorney to guide you regardless of which side you are on.
It is estimated that approximately 4.5 million dog bites are recorded each year in the United States, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, and many of these incidents cause serious damage and personal injuries that require hospitalization and reconstructive surgery.
If you consider it necessary, you should contact the Conexión Legal team as soon as possible by calling 1800 201 1220 or messaging us via WhatsApp so that you can receive the best free consultation, and in this way we can help you obtain the highest possible compensation if you were a victim of a dog bite.
How is it Determined if the Dog Caregiver's Behavior is Negligent?
Generally, negligence is defined as unreasonable behavior or the unreasonable failure to take measures when required or no warning is issued. An example of unreasonable behavior could be the dog owner releasing the leash when another dog approaches.
Reasonable behavior could be keeping the dog away from guests, because it is known that dogs play too roughly and knock people to the ground. The act of negligence or omission must be the immediate cause of loss, personal injuries or wounds. This means that the harmful results must be closely related to negligent actions or omissions.
What are the Legal Rights of a Dog Bite Victim?
The legal rights of victims who are bitten by dogs depend on the place where the incident occurred; that is, the city, county, or state. Similarly, any type of attack victim has the right to request and receive professional legal advice from a dog bite attorney.
When Will a Dog Bite Give Rise to a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
A personal injury is any physical or mental injury suffered by a person due to the negligence or harmful behavior of another person.To claim personal injuries, you must prove that you were injured physically or emotionally. Additionally, you must prove that the defendant was at fault for the damage you suffered as a result of their negligence.
When Will the Victim Receive Compensation?
In all states, victims of dog bites can receive the following compensation:
- The person who caused the attack did so through negligence
- People who violate public health and safety laws, such as leash laws or dog bite laws that prohibit dogs from "running loose"
- The dog owner knows that the dog has a history of causing harm
Under What Circumstances Can the Victim Obtain Compensation from the Dog Owner?
Most states have strict liability laws for dog attack cases. When a victim is bitten, these laws require that dog owners assume legal responsibility, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
This is why you should preferably have the support of a dog bite attorney with experience in the laws of your state.
Are There Exceptions to Liability in Most States?
The answer is yes, and some of them are:
- The victim trespassed on the property.
- The victim was a veterinarian or dog treatment specialist who was treating the dog at the time of the incident.
- The victim provoked the dog through physical abuse.
- The victim assumed the risk of being bitten (for example, express or implied consent).
- At the time of the incident, the dog was assisting police or military.
- What do dog bite victims collect money for?
- Medical treatment, such as first aid, emergency room, hospital, and ambulance.
- Future medical treatments to reduce scarring.
- Counseling to overcome the emotional trauma of being attacked, fear of dogs, fear of going out, and addressing disfigurement issues.
- The victim lost their job or business income.
- Damaged clothing and eyeglasses.
- Medication.
- Pain and suffering.
- Future disability.
- Other injured or deceased pets may give rise to the right to receive compensation.
As a victim of a dog bite, you have the right to receive compensation for your injuries. Read the article How to calculate compensation for a dog bite? and learn about the benefits you may be entitled to.
The choice of your attorney is one of the aspects that can contribute to the final decision of your case. This is why, if you or a loved one need it, you should contact the Conexión Legal team as soon as possible so that we can provide you with the best free legal consultation, and likewise, legal representation by a dog bite attorney in case you suffer any type of personal injuries to obtain the best possible compensation.Follow the steps in the following form to schedule your free consultation appointment.
