Dog bites may be agonizing and frightening. The majority of us are fond of our furry companions, yet a bite from one of them might result in permanent injuries. If you or a loved one were bitten by a dog, you will likely require a dog bite attorney. We’ll explain below why.
Usually, a dog bite is the result of owner neglect. Dog owners are required to keep their pets under control. The owner could be held liable for a dog bite. However, you will likely require assistance to obtain the money you are owed.
Why Should You Retain A Dog Bite Attorney?
Immediately following a dog bite, there is frustration and confusion. You may be unsure about what to do initially. Hiring a dog attack lawyer will guarantee that you take activities that are advantageous to your case.
Dog bites should be covered by the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance. This indicates that you can likely file a claim with the insurer for your injuries. However, such simplicity is rare.
Insurance companies make filing a claim complicated. They frequently employ methods such as:
- Calling you and using anything you say against you.
- Having doubts or downplaying your injuries.
- Convincing you that the initial lowball offer is the only one available.
- Attempting to persuade you that a lawyer is unnecessary.
- Requesting an audio recording of your statement.
How A Lawyer For Dog Bites Can Help Your Case
We advise contacting a dog bite attorney for a consultation at the very least. The vast majority of personal injury attorneys provide free consultations. A lawyer will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your legal alternatives.
A dog bite attorney can benefit your case by:
- Demonstrating that the owner of the dog was negligent prior to the assault.
- Deploying detectives to collect evidence
- Examining the dog’s history
- Soliciting the testimony of eyewitnesses.
- Collecting information with the assistance of professionals.
- Communicating with and negotiating on your behalf with the insurer.
If you have an attorney, insurance companies will take you more seriously. It will inform the insurer that you want to pursue a fair compensation claim. The insurance might provide a reasonable settlement sooner.
How Should You Respond If A Dog Bites You?
If a dog bites you or a member of your family, you likely have a case. Personal injury claims can typically be filed with the property owner’s insurance company.
You can start to develop your case by:
- Taking photographs of your wounds, the dog that bit you, and the scenario as a whole.
- Inquiring with surrounding residents if they recognize the dog.
- Obtaining witnesses’ contact information.
- Notifying police and Animal Control about the dog bite.
- Keeping your medical records and other evidence of your injuries.
Will The Dog’s Owner Oppose Your Claim?
It is achievable. Negligent dog owners do not like to admit blame. The proprietor may assert that you:
- Your actions provoked the dog’s attack.
- The dog bit you because you were trespassing on private property.
- You were partly responsible for the dog attack.
These arguments almost always attempt to avoid accountability. However, each defense is just another reason why you may want legal representation.
Your attorney will be able to counter each claim effectively. An expert dog bite attorney will be well-versed in common dog owner defenses and how to overcome them.