Personal Injury Lawyers
Why Should I Hire a Dog bite attorney?
If you were injured in a dog bite incident, proving liability and holding the dog’s owner can be complex.
If you were involved in a dog bite incident that involved an:
- Attack dog
- Guard dog
- Police dog
- Neighbor’s dog
- Stray animal
You need to seek legal representation as soon as possible.
Here are the reasons why you should speak with a dog bite lawyer at MVP Accident Attorneys:
Dog bite laws vary from state to state, and navigating these laws can be complex. A dog bite lawyer at MVP Accident Attorneys is well-versed in the specific statutes and regulations related to dog bites in your jurisdiction. They understand the elements of liability, such as strict liability and negligence, and can determine the most appropriate legal strategy to pursue your case.
Identifying the Liable Party
In dog bite cases, determining liability is crucial. A dog bite lawyer on our legal team will thoroughly investigate the incident to establish who is responsible for the dog's actions. Depending on the circumstances, potentially liable parties may include the dog owner, the property owner, or another individual responsible for the dog's care. Identifying the correct defendant is essential to ensuring that you pursue the appropriate legal action. Depending on the dog breed and breed-specific legislation in your area, if the dog or puppy was not legally allowed in your jurisdiction or on the property, but the property owner knew and failed to take action, they can be held liable.
An attorney will gather evidence and information on the dog, including:
- Whether the dog was secured behind a gate at the time of the incident
- If the dog was under the control of the dog owner at the time and was not wearing the proper leash and collar or a harness
- Microchip implant information
- Dog license information
- Vaccination records
- Eyewitness statements
- Whether there were any past incidents such as aggressive behavior, bites, dog fighting, and more
- Information regarding dog breed and local breed restriction legislation
This information can be used to help your attorney build a strong case and hold all negligent parties liable for your injuries and other damages.
Help You Recover Damages
An attorney will work diligently to help you obtain maximum compensation for your accident-related damages. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any future medical treatment or rehabilitation costs. By thoroughly assessing your case, gathering evidence, and leveraging their negotiation skills, a dog bite lawyer at MVP Accident Attorneys will fight for fair and comprehensive compensation on your behalf.
Negotiate a Fair Settlement
Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or offer a settlement that does not adequately cover your damages. Having a dog-bite lawyer on your side can level the playing field. They will handle all communication with the insurance company, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair settlement.
What is the Average Dog attack Settlement?
The value of a dog bite settlement varies depending on the circumstances of the case, including the severity of the injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other factors. An experienced dog bite lawyer can evaluate the details of your case and provide an estimate of the potential settlement amount. They will fight to ensure that you receive fair and just compensation for your damages.
What Serious Injuries Can Occur from Dog Mauling?
Serious injuries from dog attacks can include:
- Crush injuries/loss of limb
- Puncture wounds
- Cuts and lacerations
- Bone fractures
- Nerve damage
- Disfigurement
- Infection
The physical and emotional toll of these injuries can be overwhelming, and the road to recovery may be long and costly. That's why it is crucial to seek legal representation from a dog bite lawyer who understands the complexities of these cases and can help you pursue the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
Who Can I Sue for a Dog bite Injury?
Suing someone for a dog bite may seem daunting, but with the guidance and support of a dog bite lawyer at MVP Accident Attorneys, the process can be more manageable. Your lawyer will handle all legal aspects of your case, including filing the necessary paperwork, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. They will use their expertise and knowledge of dog bite laws to build a strong case on your behalf, alleviating the burden and stress of navigating the legal system on your own.
The difficulty of the lawsuit will depend on various factors, such as the specific laws in your jurisdiction, the extent of your injuries, and the availability of evidence. In this case, if the dog’s owner has homeowner’s insurance, you would pursue compensation from the insurance carrier. If the dog’s owner does not have homeowner’s insurance, you would pursue compensation from the dog owner. You may also be entitled to pursue compensation from the property owner’s insurance company or directly from the property owner, depending on the circumstances of your case.
What Should I Do if My Neighbor’s Dog Attacks Me?
If you find yourself in a situation where your neighbor's dog attacks you, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect yourself and ensure your safety.
Your health and well-being are the top priority. If you sustain any injuries from the dog attack, immediately seek medical attention. Even if the injuries seem minor, it's important to have a medical professional evaluate and document them.
Report the incident
Contact your local animal control agency or the police to report the dog attack. Provide them with all the necessary details, including the location, time, and description of the dog and its owner. Reporting the incident helps create an official record and ensures that the authorities are aware of the situation.
Document the incident
Take photos of your injuries as soon as possible. These visual records will serve as evidence of the severity of the attack. Additionally, gather any other relevant information, such as witness contact details, statements, and any documentation related to the previous aggressive behavior of the dog.
Contact your neighbor
Once you have taken care of your immediate medical needs and reported the incident, you may want to have a conversation with your neighbor. Be calm and respectful when discussing the attack, but make it clear that their dog's behavior is unacceptable and poses a danger to others.
Consult with a dog bite lawyer
After a dog attack, speak with a dog bite lawyer who specializes in personal injury cases. They will review the details of your situation, assess the liability of the dog owner, and guide you through the legal process.
Contact Us Today!
Seeking the assistance of a dog bite lawyer at MVP Accident Attorneys is crucial if you have been bitten or attacked by a dog. Our legal team has the knowledge, experience, and resources to navigate the complexities of dog bite cases and fight for the compensation you deserve.
From investigating the incident, identifying liable parties, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies, to representing you in court if necessary, our dog bite lawyers will be your dedicated advocate throughout the entire legal process. Contact MVP Accident Attorneys today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Areas We Serve
los angeles
san diego
san jose
san francisco
fresno
sacramento
long beach
oakland
santa ana
anaheim
bakersfield
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irvine
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torrance
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sunnyvale
fullerton
thousand oaks
el monte
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vallejo
Author
Brett Sachs
Brett S. Sachs graduated from Michigan State University College of Law with Cum Laude Honors. While attending Michigan State, Brett was awarded for his service in the Michigan State University College of Law Civil Rights Clinic, where he represented prisoners of the Michigan Department of Corrections from injustices brought upon them. Learn more.
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