Dog bite attacks affect children and senior citizens more often than other members of the population. A dog bite can cause bacterial infection and other problems that can lead to serious medical complications. If you speak to a Hernando personal injury lawyer, you will learn more about how you can seek financial compensation for your injuries.
Establishing Liability in a Dog Bite Accident Case
Strict liability is a method of establishing liability without proving that the defendant was negligent or at fault. The act itself makes the defendant liable for the plaintiff’s injuries. If you suffered a dog bite injury, then it is likely that you can seek financial compensation under a strict liability theory.
You do not have to prove that the defendant was negligent when you assert a strict liability claim. The act itself means that the defendant is liable for your injuries. It is also important to ascertain whether the dog that attacked you has attacked anyone before you suffered injuries.
A dog owner should be on notice of their dog’s dangerous propensities if the owner knows the dog has attacked someone in the past. This notice is important when you want to establish liability in dog bite cases. Many states have a “one free bite” rule which allows dog owners to not be held liable if they were not aware of their dog’s dangerous propensities.
Obtaining Medical Treatment for Dog Bite Injuries
It is necessary to receive medical treatment as soon as possible after suffering a dog bite injury. You may need to pay out-of-pocket for medical care if you do not have health insurance, and this can influence how you choose a personal injury lawyer. Healing from your injuries is extremely important for both your physical and mental health.
Sometimes dog bite injury victims need to undergo plastic surgery to reconstruct parts of their bodies damaged during an attack. If you need to learn more about the procedures that may apply in your case, a Hernando dog bite attorney can recommend a reputable plastic surgeon. Our attorneys can negotiate with opposing counsel after you have received the medical treatment you need so you can seek monetary compensation for your injuries.
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What You Should Do After a Dog Bite Attack
Many victims do not know how to react when they suffer a dog bite injury. It is vital that you go to the hospital after you are in a safe place away from the dog that attacked you. It is essential that you document your injuries, and medical records are a great way for you to create documentary evidence of the dog bite.
If you can take a photograph of the dog that attacked you, then you should do so. You should also obtain the name and contact information of the dog owner or the person who was responsible for controlling the animal when you were attacked. Also, you should collect the names and contact information of any witnesses who observed the attack or who were present at the scene.
Lastly, it is important for you to take photographs of your injuries. Ideally, you should photograph your injuries before, during, and after you receive medical care for your injuries. The more documentation you have regarding the incident and your injuries, the stronger your civil lawsuit will be.
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Individuals and Entities Which May Be Liable for Damages
It may be necessary to determine which parties could be liable for your injuries besides the owner of the dog that attacked you. A dog bite attorney in Hernando can help you determine how to identify the parties that may be named as defendants in your case. The following are some of the parties that may be liable for your injuries:
- Property landlords
- Animal caretakers
- Lessors of property
It is important for you to know that any person who takes control of an animal may be financially liable for the actions of the animal. Kennels and dog walkers may be liable for your injuries depending on the facts and circumstances of your case. Also, in some cases, landlords may be liable for animal attacks that occur on their property.
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Common Injuries Victims Suffer During Dog Attacks in Hernando
Dog bite injuries may cause both physical and psychological damage to victims of all ages. Many individuals who suffer dog bite injuries feel powerless and infantilized. The following are some of the most common injuries victims suffer during dog attacks:
- Death
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Rabies
- Soft tissue injuries
- Puncture wounds
- Infections
- Fractured bones
- Disfigurement
A dog bite lawyer in Hernando can help you enforce your legal rights. You do not have to walk away from a dog attack feeling victimized and helpless. You have the right to seek monetary compensation for your injuries.
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The Types of Damages Victims May Claim in Dog Bite Injury Cases
Dog bite injury victims typically claim general damages and special damages. Sometimes an injured party will claim punitive damages, but these are reserved for only when the defendant engages in conduct that is wanton, willful, or malicious. The following are some examples of the types of damages an injured party may claim:
- Psychological trauma
- Scar treatment
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Medical bills
- Property damage
It is often necessary to speak to a knowledgeable Hernando dog bite lawyer to determine how to calculate the total damages amount in your case. Numerous factors can affect the damages amount, and therefore it will make your case stronger if you consult with an attorney before you file a civil lawsuit.
Contact Gatti, Keltner, Bienvenu & Montesi, PLC Today
We know how difficult it can be to seek help after being injured and traumatized during a dog attack. However, you can stand up for your legal rights and hold the responsible party liable for your injuries. If you are searching for a dog bite lawyer, then contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
You do not have to negotiate with an insurance company before you speak to a dog bite lawyer. We can work on your insurance claims and file a civil complaint which will initiate a lawsuit. If the insurance company does not negotiate in a fair manner, then our attorneys will be prepared for litigation.