The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that dogs bite over 4.5 million Americans annually, with over 800,000 of these incidents necessitating medical attention. Children are the most prevalent victims of dog bites and these incidents cause severe injuries, medical bills, emotional distress, and long-term trauma.
Although not every issue requires legal assistance, complex dog bite cases may require you to hire a lawyer so you can obtain compensation. Dog bite lawyer Carl Barnes says the right attorney can assist you in holding the dog’s owner accountable for your medical bills and maximize your compensation.
Let’s look at some situations where you might need a dog bite lawyer.
Severity of the Dog Bite
If the dog bite causes serious damage or problems, you might want to hire a dog bite lawyer. Dog bites can cause serious injuries that cost a lot to treat and may result in time off work.
According to dog bite attorney Joshua R. Evans, dog bite lawyers like himself can help determine who is responsible for the dog’s actions, gather proof to back up your claim, and talk to the insurance company on your behalf.
If you have a lawyer on your side, you have a better chance of getting fair compensation for your losses. When a dog bites someone badly, a lawyer’s help can be very helpful. Your lawyer can guide you through the court process, look out for your best interests, and work to get you a favorable result.
Owner’s Liability and Insurance Coverage
The owner’s liability and insurance coverage play crucial roles in determining the outcomes of dog bite cases. Typically, the owner bears the responsibility for the incident when their dog bites someone. This means that the owner may be liable for any injuries or damages caused by their dog.
In cases where the owner knew or should have known that their dog had aggressive tendencies, they may face even greater liability.
Homeowner’s insurance policies often cover dog bite incidents, providing compensation to the victim for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, some insurance policies exclude coverage for certain breeds or require additional liability coverage for dog-related incidents.
It is essential to consider the owner’s liability and insurance coverage when dealing with a dog bite case.
Medical Treatment and Expenses
After a dog bite, early medical attention is essential to ensure correct treatment and prevent consequences. Not treating even minor bites might cause infections or other health problems. Carefully follow your doctor’s orders after receiving treatment. Clean and dress the wound, take antibiotics if needed, and attend follow-up sessions to monitor recovery.
Record any medical bills, prescriptions, and other relevant information. Your medical bills for a dog bite can add up quickly. These costs may include emergency hospital visits, surgeries, drugs, and rehabilitation, depending on the injury.
Besides medical expenses, scar repair operations or rehabilitation may also be needed. Keep track of all dog bite injury charges since you may be able to sue the dog owner or their insurance.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Negotiating intelligently with insurance providers is important since insurance companies may try to give you less. Gather medical records, bills, and incident evidence. A detailed narrative of dog bite incidence and its effects will improve your stand during negotiations.
Speak honestly and consistently to the insurance company. If you downplay or confess fault, the insurance company may use your injuries against you. Negotiations require patience and persistence. Insurance companies may delay or undervalue your claim, but staying tough can help you get a reasonable payment.
If you encounter difficulties or feel overwhelmed during negotiations, consider seeking assistance from a dog bite lawyer. An experienced attorney can offer guidance, manage correspondence with the insurance company, and safeguard your rights during the negotiation process.
Statute of Limitations and Legal Deadlines
Understanding the Statute of Limitations and legal deadlines for a dog bite injury is important. The Statute of Limitations sets the maximum time you have to file a lawsuit after a dog bite occurs. Each state has its own specific time frame, typically ranging from one to three years. It’s crucial to be aware of your state’s statute to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to take legal action.
If you miss the statute of limitations, you may lose your injury compensation. This deadline is stringent and case-specific. Consult a dog bite lawyer immediately after the incident to safeguard your rights.
Conclusion
If the dog’s owner acts negligently despite being aware of their dog’s tendency to bite someone, you may require legal assistance. You should quickly consult a lawyer who can help protect your rights and obtain compensation for your injuries.