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Many dogs make great pets, but even a well-trained and usually friendly animal can attack and cause serious injuries. As a result, all states have laws that allow people who suffer injuries from dogs to recover compensation – but the specifics can vary significantly. Additionally, the legal consequences for dog owners can vary depending on jurisdictions, with some imposing fines, mandatory training, or even euthanasia. Further, dog owners can face civil liability for injuries their dogs cause in many situations.
If you or someone in your family has suffered injuries in a dog attack, you should contact a dog bite lawyer near you immediately. A lawyer can determine if you have a case and, if you do, protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
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Dog attacks can cause serious injuries. More than 4.5 million dog bites occur each year, and a significant portion of these cases result in medical treatment. And it’s not just bites that are the issue—dogs often knock people down in attacks, which can also result in serious medical issues.
Dog attacks can lead to a range of injuries, including the following:
Thankfully, in many cases, state law entitles victims of dog bites to compensation. The best way to determine if you have a claim is to discuss your attack with a dog bite lawyer near you.
When it comes to dog attack cases, the legal rules can vary significantly from state to state.
Some states follow the strict liability rule, which holds dog owners responsible for any injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior. Under strict liability, the victim does not need to prove that the dog owner was negligent or aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies.
For example, Connecticut is a state with strict liability for dog bites. Under CGS §22-357, “If any dog does any damage to either the body or property of any person, the owner or keeper or if the owner or keeper is a minor, the parent or guardian of such minor, shall be liable for the amount of such damage.” There are two exceptions to this rule. Strict liability does not apply if:
Other states follow the one-bite rule, which means that the dog owner is only liable if they were aware or had reason to know that their dog had the propensity to cause harm. In these states, the victim may need to provide evidence that the owner was aware or should have been aware of the dog’s dangerous tendencies. It is critical to consult a knowledgeable dog bite attorney to understand the specific laws and regulations in your jurisdiction.
Dog attack victims can typically seek compensation for both their economic and non-economic losses. In many cases, these losses include the following:
After a dog attack, you may be wondering how you can get compensation for losses like medical expenses, lost income, or physical and emotional pain and suffering. In many cases, dog owners’ renters’ or homeowners’ policies will provide liability coverage. That said, these insurance companies typically do everything they can to avoid paying dog attack victims what their cases are worth. They may engage in tactics such as:
Fortunately, a lawyer with experience handling dog bite claims can evaluate your case, determine how much compensation you should receive, and work to get the insurance company to pay you what your claim is worth. If the insurance company does not make a fair settlement offer, your lawyer will likely file a lawsuit in the appropriate court to pursue the compensation you deserve under state law.
If you or someone you know has suffered injuries in a dog attack, you should seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney who focuses on dog bite cases. A dog bite lawyer can provide the guidance and representation you need to navigate the legal process smoothly and maximize your chances of obtaining fair compensation. They will fight for your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.
The laws surrounding dangerous dogs can be complicated, and without proper legal help, you may find it challenging to navigate the legal system and recover the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a personal injury attorney near you who can explain your rights, provide advice, and guide you through the entire process. Take the first step towards justice by contacting an attorney today.
We are committed to provide personalized attention to each and every client’s case – no matter how large or small– because that is each client’s only case. We are proud of our firm’s reputation of combining integrity and compassion with an unflinching dedication to getting the right result. We will do what we say.
