Dog bites are a serious threat to public health. With an estimated 4.5 million incidents each year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. About 800,000 victims require medical attention for their bites; children are particularly at risk, as half of all bite victims are under 18. Furthermore, nearly 20% of dog bite victims need additional medical care. Young children have the highest risk, as most bites occur when interacting with familiar dogs during everyday activities.
Dog bites are a severe issue; victims may even need to file a legal dog bite injury claim to recover from their losses. If a dog has injured you, hiring a lawyer experienced in representing dog bite injury victims is essential. Your lawyer can help to investigate your case and help ensure that you receive the proper compensation for your injuries. Here is how:
Review Your Legal Options
After suffering a dog bite injury, it’s essential to assess the severity of the injury and consider all legal options. A specialist lawyer can review your case to determine property loss, lost wages, or any continuing medical expenses you may have incurred. With an understanding of all the factors involved in your situation, they will help you determine the best course and potential compensation.
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Talk With the Dog Owner
When handling a dog attack situation, the injured party should expect potential contact from representatives of the dog owner. They may offer you a settlement as part of their negotiation strategy. Your lawyers will assist you in ensuring a fair and equitable resolution. Working with experienced legal counsel specializing in dog attack matters is advisable to achieve the best outcome.
Collect the Evidence
When handling a dog bite lawsuit, a knowledgeable attorney will review the circumstances leading to the attack. They may speak with neighbors or others familiar with the dog to know any violent or aggressive behavior history and consult experts in canine anatomy and bite psychology. The attorney will also explore how to take preventative measures during the incident that could have minimized or eliminated injury.
To do so, lawyers report the incident to the relevant government agency, such as the local health department or the Department of Animal Services. Taking photos of the accident location, your injuries, and the dog can help them to support your claim. They also locate any witnesses and obtain their statements, as this will provide further proof of liability for your damages suffered.
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Prove That the Attack Was Unprovoked
To defend against the possibility that one may not receive any compensation for their dog bite injury, one’s lawyer must work to dispute any claims by the pet owner that suggest you were provoking the animal before the attack.
Gathering witnesses and video evidence is vital to demonstrate that the attack was unprovoked. With a skilled attorney on your side, you can rest assured knowing they will do all they can to protect your rights and secure payment for damages done.
Legal Representation in Court
If your personal injury case goes to court, a competent lawyer can give you peace of mind. Legal representation may increase the chances of a successful outcome for your case.
Bottomline
In a dog bite injury legal investigation, the lawyer will examine all relevant factors, such as the severity of the injury, how and why it occurred, any prior aggressive tendencies of the canine involved, and whether or not the owner was negligent in the owner’s duty to supervise the animal. They also help you with your medical records and eyewitness accounts to strengthen the claim further.