Even the cutest and friendliest dog can suddenly become a vicious attacker if it believes it or its owner is under attack. If you were bitten by a dog, it’s essential that you contact an attorney for personal injury assistance that can ensure you obtain adequate compensation for your injuries.
A Dog Owner’s Liability
There are three ways to establish a dog owner’s liability for injuries caused by his or her canine friend. In some areas, dog owners are automatically deemed liable for any injuries their dogs cause regardless of whether or not they were aware their pets had a tendency to bite people. Even if the dog has never given any indication of being aggressive, the law puts them on the hook for damages from the first bite.
In other areas, dog owners aren’t liable unless they knew their pets were biters; it is then incumbent on the defendant to prove the owner had prior knowledge his or her dog had a tendency to bite people. This proof can take the form of testimony from other people who came in contact with dog or complaints filed with local law enforcement agencies by people who were previously attacked.
The third way dog owners may be held liable is if they were careless or negligent in the way they handled their dogs, and that carelessness caused the injury. For instance, if a dog owner forgets to close the gate to the yard and the dog gets out and bites someone, then the owner could be held liable because of their inattention.
Types of Compensation Available
You can sue for compensable damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses you incurred as a result of the dog bite. Depending on the severity of the attack, however, you may also be able to get money for pain and suffering, especially if the animal causes an injury that results in long-term disability. If the dog owner’s actions were particularly egregious or offensive, then you may be able to collect punitive damages as well.
Litigating a dog-bite case can be challenging, therefore, it is best to contact an attorney for personal injury assistance. For a free consultation Visit the website.
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