Know Your Legal Rights if You’re a Victim of a Dog Attack
Dog attacks can be a traumatic experience, resulting in physical and emotional harm. As a victim of a dog attack, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and take appropriate action to protect yourself or your loved ones.
Understanding Laws Around Dog Bites
When it comes to dog attacks, the legal framework can vary from state to state. However, most states have specific laws in place to hold dog owners accountable for their pets’ actions. These laws typically impose civil and, in some cases, criminal liability on the owner.
Civil Liability for Dog Bite Injuries
In cases where a dog bites and injures a person, the owner will be held liable for the damages caused. Although specific legal principles governing civil liability for dog bite injuries can differ depending on the jurisdiction, most states have strict liability for the owners, which holds them financially responsible for the injuries that result from their dog’s actions.
Criminal Liability for Dog Bite Injuries
In certain circumstances, dog owners may face criminal charges for their dog’s actions. While criminal liability for dog attacks is rare, it can occur in cases where the owners intentionally caused their dog to bite someone, knew that their dog had aggressive tendencies, or did not reasonably restrain in dog.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Dog Attack
If you’re a victim of a dog attack, it’s crucial to take immediate action to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. Here are some steps to follow:
- Find the Owner of the Dog: Obtaining their contact information, including their name, address, and phone number is crucial for any legal proceedings or insurance claims.
- Gather Evidence: Document the scene of the attack by taking photographs of your injuries, torn clothing, etc. If there were any witnesses present, collect their contact information as well. This evidence will support your claim and strengthen your case.
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and well-being should be your top priority. Even if your injuries appear minor, it’s essential to seek medical attention to assess the extent of your injuries and prevent any potential complications.
- Preserve Medical Records and Expenses: Keep a record of all medical treatments, expenses, and any other costs associated with the dog attack. This documentation will be essential when seeking compensation for your injuries.
Seeking Legal Representation
After a dog attack, it’s best to consult with a skilled attorney who specializes in personal injury cases. This attorney will guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. If you come across a situation with an irresponsible dog owner that leaves you seriously hurt, contact the dedicated attorneys at Price Benowitz.
The legal team at Price Benowitz are experienced veterans in defending their clients in difficult situations. They efficiently tackle taught obstacles in order for you to get the compensation you deserve. Having them by your side when negotiating with the insurance company can make thousands of dollars of difference. They are there to help you at every step through the process; they charge nothing upfront and are paid through a percentage of the compensation that they get for you. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a member of our knowledgeable team.
