Factors to Consider If You are Injured by a Dog Bite or Animal Attack

It is essential that you are prepared with information on what to do if a dog or animal injures you. Remember to seek medical attention first. Asking the help of a personal injury lawyer is advisable, so he can assess whether you need to file a complaint and require compensation. A medical record can strengthen your case where a lack of it can deem your case questionable. Once you have consulted a medical professional, consult with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney to help you determine your best course of action.

Don’t Count on Insurance Companies

Whether you’re own or the dog owner’s insurance company it is the same. These companies will try to negotiate to pay you as little money as possible. Never try to negotiate with any insurance company or sign anything without getting necessary legal advice.

You don’t have to be bitten to make a Claim

The statute on “strict liability” on the dog owner covers any damage to the property or body of the victim. Even if your injury were knocked over by a dog, you still have sufficient grounds for compensation.

Who Should You File Against?

The law imposes liability on the keeper of the dog. It is the person who assumes custody, management, and control of the dog. However, acquiescence over a dog’s presence on someone’s premises may not be enough to prove dog ownership.

In the case of a minor, the parent or guardian will be held liable. Even if someone else was taking care of the dog, they are still liable for your injury. There are cases wherein a single person is liable, or there are complicated issues surrounding control and ownership of the dog. It is wise to review these with a competent lawyer that knows who should be responsible for your injury.

Bites from Dog-Sitting

The issue could be complicated if you were bitten by someone else’s dog under your care. In some cases, you may be considered the dog’s keeper and can complicate the issue of recovery. A seasoned lawyer can help you identify your options.

Police Dog Bites

It may be difficult to claim especially since your complaints are against the police. Still, a competent personal injury lawyer can point out possible grounds for legal action, which includes filing a civil rights claim.

Filing Against Your Neighbor

If you or anyone in your premises was bitten by your neighbor’s dog, you might find it hard to sue the dog keeper. However, keep in mind that in most cases, an insurance company will be responsible for paying your medical bill. Adequate medical attention for dog bites can get expensive with all the vaccinations and necessary treatments. Further, know that most personal injury cases are settled through negotiations. Only in some cases is filing a suit necessary. However, the case may be different in case the dog has a history of attacks and dog bite cases. In this case, a negligence claim may be in order.

Information You Will Need

A reliable personal injury lawyer can help you investigate your claim. Still, it is beneficial for you if you start gathering names of witnesses, medical records, photographs of your injury, photos where the attack took place, and photos of the dog that attacked you. Your lawyer may also require the name and address of the dog owner, the I.D. tag number of the animal, proof of dog vaccination, and police/animal control reports, where applicable.

The role of a competent personal injury lawyer in dog and animal attacks cannot be compromised. If you need to speak with a personal injury lawyer for dog bites and animal attacks, Stephen Babcock is the one you should talk to. For consultations, visit Babcock Partners, LLC | https://www.stephenbabcock.com/