Dog Bite Lawyers

Knowledge of Dog Bite Laws

State-by-state dog bite laws differ, yet they are all governed by a few fundamental, universal principles. By comprehending these underlying ideas, we can more clearly understand how the law operates.

There are two types of dog bite laws: “one bite” legislation and “strict liability” laws.

One Bite Rules

Only in cases where the defendant-owner knew that there was a likely chance that their dog would bite—because it had previously been declared a dangerous dog or because of a history of violent incidents—does the one bite statute provide restitution. This is done to protect owners from legal action when their dog “bit once” but otherwise acts peacefully.

Absolute Liability

No of whether the owner knew or should have known that their dog was likely to bite someone, strict liability regulations allow for restitution. The victim of the dog bite may seek compensation as long as it was an unprovoked attack. If the injured party can prove that the dog was “hazardous,” further damages can be attainable in some places where strict responsibility only covers medical costs.

What Kind Of Restitution Is Possible In A Dog Bite Case?

How much they might be awarded in damages is one of the main concerns for the majority of plaintiffs. Is it worthwhile to pursue a legal claim against the defendant, they want to know.

How much a case is worth is not an easy question to answer because it depends on the particulars. For instance, you would have a considerably higher value claim if a dog severely wounded your legs to the point where you were unable to walk than if the dog had only slightly hurt you.

The following damages are typically recoverable in a dog bite case:

• Medical costs
• Pay loss
• loss of ability to earn
• emotional angst
• Distress and suffering
• Property damage
• even more

For instance, if a dog bite leaves you hurt and prevents you from working for six months while you recuperate, you may be entitled to recover six months’ worth of lost wages, which is almost certainly going to be a sizable amount. Your future earning capability may also be impacted if the injury is extremely severe and keeps you from working as many hours in the future, which would increase the potential compensation even further.

Successful dog bite attorneys know how to maximise the damages in order to get their clients the best outcome.

What Constitutes a Dangerous Dog?

As a general rule, if the dog that attacked you meets the criteria for being a “potentially dangerous dog” or a “dangerous dog” (also known as a “vicious dog” in some states), then the defendant may be held accountable for damages as a result of their carelessness or reckless behaviour.

A hazardous dog adjudication may be required in order to receive full compensation, depending on state legislation. In some circumstances involving hazardous dogs, the victim may even be able to sue the defendant for additional punitive damages.

What Characterizes A Dog As Dangerous?

Again, definitions differ from one state to the next. Generally speaking, though, a dangerous dog is one that has already injured another human or has displayed aggressive or threatening behaviour (such that another person had to take defensive action to protect themselves). The dog must have acted in this way without being provoked for it to be considered dangerous.

How Can A Dog Bite Lawyer Help?

Attorneys are a critical part of an effective lawsuit — though the law does allow injured plaintiffs to represent themselves, this is highly problematic. Even courts discourage plaintiffs from representing themselves, as it can lead to procedural and legal issues that require the case to be “thrown out.”

Skilled dog bite lawyers will comprehensively handle your case from start-to-finish. They can do the following:

• Investigate the dog bite incident
• Gather and preserve evidence
• Identify useful eyewitnesses
• Work with experts
• Navigate procedural requirements
• Develop a persuasive legal argument
• Negotiate settlement options
• Litigate the case in court (if necessary)
• And more

It’s important to note that most dog bite injury attorneys accept contingency fees. This means that you won’t have to pay any fees up front; instead, you’ll only have to pay if (and when) your lawyer is successful in getting compensation for you.

Essentially, your lawyer will pay for all expenses related to your litigation, including out-of-pocket medical charges, the fees of professional investigators, the costs of expert witnesses, etc. They assume the risk of paying for these expenses. In exchange, they receive a portion of your overall compensation. It is a win-win situation. Your lawyer has a financial incentive to successfully and quickly obtain the greatest amount of compensation on your behalf.

You may be entitled to considerable damages as compensation if you have suffered injuries as a result of a dog attack. Unfortunately, the legal system can be confusing and convoluted, which leads many plaintiffs to forego legal action and accept their injuries without seeking the just compensation. This is a missed chance to get what the law says you are entitled to.