The US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that over 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year and over 800,000 instances require medical attention. According to the National Library of Medicine, roughly 30 to 50 people die from dog bites each year.

Dog bites are by far the most common type of animal bite in the US and victims are mostly children. According to personal injury attorney Brian Van Allen, before you take a dog bite as a minor incident, you must consider the potential long-term consequences, like increased medical costs or even death. You must protect yourself at all costs and consult a doctor immediately if you have been bitten by a dog.

Once you have ensured your safety and well-being, you can then consider taking legal steps to receive compensation for the pain, trauma, lost income and even suffering the dog bite caused you.

Here are the top reasons why you need to consult a personal injury lawyer after a dog bite:

Legal Expertise and Guidance

Individuals who have been bitten by dogs may receive legal guidance from a personal injury attorney. Your personal injury lawyer can explain your rights and local dog bite legislation. He or she can evaluate your case, determine liability, and advise you on how to get compensation.

A personal injury lawyer can handle all communication with insurance companies and other parties involved, relieving you of the stress of negotiations. Your lawyer will be the one responsible for building a strong case on your behalf, collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and representing your interests in court if necessary.

Remember that in some states, like NC, a “one bite” rule is enforced and it provides legal protection to dog owners the first time their pets attack people. It is important to hire a lawyer who has been practicing in your jurisdiction for a while to ensure they know the local laws. You can head to this page if you need to know more about dog bite laws in NC: https://www.heltonlaw.com/hickory-dog-bite lawyer,

Maximizing Compensation Options

A personal injury lawyer can help you understand all compensation options available to you after a dog bite accident. Consulting a lawyer can help you understand the complete range of damages from a dog bite, such as medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and any future medical needs you might have.

Your personal injury lawyer will assess the circumstances of the incident to build a strong case on your behalf and he or she will work with the dog owner’s insurance company to reach a fair settlement for you.

If a settlement is not possible, your lawyer will be ready to take your case to court to advocate for the best possible compensation for you.

Understanding Liability and Laws

In many states, if a dog causes injuries, the owner is held accountable, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior. This concept is referred to as strict liability, indicating that the owner is responsible no matter what, regardless of any negligence or the dog’s past actions.

As mentioned, some states enforce the ‘one-bite rule.’ This means that a dog owner might not be held responsible for the first time their dog bites someone, as long as they were unaware of any aggressive behavior from their pet beforehand. If the owner was aware of their dog’s dangerous behavior, they could be held accountable for any resulting injuries.

Handling Insurance Claims

Handling insurance claims after a dog bite incident can be complicated and requires understanding the coverage and procedures involved. When dealing with insurance companies, it is important to share thorough details about the incident, such as medical records, expenses, and any other relevant documents.

Be cautious when communicating with the insurance adjusters and avoid admitting fault or downplaying your injuries. Understanding insurance limits is important too. Homeowner’s insurance for dog owners might provide coverage for dog bites, but it is worth noting that there could be certain limits or restrictions on the compensation available.

If the dog owner does not have insurance, you might have to rely on your homeowner’s insurance or consider taking legal action against them.

Holding Responsible Parties Accountable

Proof is needed to hold dog bite offenders accountable and seek compensation. This process requires identifying the dog owner, proving their negligence or failure to control the animal, and showing how their conduct caused the bite. You can ensure the responsible party pays for your injuries by holding them liable.

One important part of ensuring that those responsible are held accountable is to carefully document the incident. This includes collecting your medical records that detail your injuries, obtaining statements from witnesses, taking photographs of the bite wounds, and keeping track of any conversations with the dog owner or their insurance company.

A personal injury lawyer can assist you in negotiating with insurance providers and taking legal action if necessary.

Conclusion

If you have been bitten by a dog, it is important to talk to a personal injury lawyer. His or her expertise ensures you receive rightful compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

By holding the responsible parties accountable, you not only secure your own future but also help in preventing such incidents from happening to others.