According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, there are at least 4.5 million people bitten by dogs each year. And sadly, most of the victims are children.
According to Connecticut dog bite lawyer Brad Sorrentino, dog bite victims should contact legal firms regarding a compensation claim. A person can be strictly liable for the injuries a victim sustained following a dog bite attack.
Upon sustaining a dog bite, the claim procedures can be difficult to handle. In obtaining support in these early phases and assembling important proofs for later use, it is important to rely on specialized attorneys with insight into local dog bite laws and a deeper understanding of liability concerns.
Understanding the law is a way to effectively address the issues surrounding dog bite cases. Knowing some common mistakes before starting your complaint would be necessary.
Let’s discuss the nature of dog bite claims and what one can expect when undergoing the legal claim process.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Incident
If ever bitten by a dog, you need to take immediate mitigating steps on his end so as to ensure your health and safety. This comprises a thorough washing of the wound with soap and water for up to fifteen minutes. You also remove any debris from the wound with antiseptic wipes. Wash out as much dirt as you can from the wound.
Immediate medical help needs to be sought, more especially if the bite is presumably muscular. A dog bite is serious when there is a change in coloration or increased local swelling. Identify the dog involved and its owner. Don’t forget to attach a photo of the bite.
Notifying local authorities or animal control can prevent further dog attack incidents. The health of the victim is the main concern, and follow-ups of treatments may have the appropriate focus with respect to the doctor's order.
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Gathering Essential Evidence for Your Dog Bite Claim
Collecting the right information at the moment of a dog bite can be beneficial for a dog bite claim. Take several photographs capturing the nature of the dog bite injury. Mention the witnesses' precise names and contact information in the note, and see if they can let you have a statement.
Collect all the treatments, prescriptions, exams, accident medical reports, reconstructive surgery, or postoperative care, and any information concerning the injuries. Look for any possible information tied to the pet, especially vaccination and ownership records. Your expenses should be meticulously documented.
A lawyer might assist you in assembling the evidence collected. Well-documented and properly amassed evidence tends to increase your chances for winning the case.
Key Aspects of Dog Bite Liability Laws to Know
Dog bite laws differ from state to state. These laws can be classified under two possible brackets: strict liability and negligence.
In strict liability states, the owner's responsibility is based on the dog's behavior itself, regardless of whether the owner was previously aware that the dog could pose a danger. In comparison, negligence laws may hold the dog's owner responsible for failing to keep their dog under control.
One principle, known as the "one bite" doctrine, stipulates that the injured party cannot establish liability if the dog had previously shown no aggressive behavior. Laws about leashes and other dog-specific legislation can have a significant effect on your claims.
Managing Dog Bite Insurance Claims
Victims seeking to make a compensation claim for a dog bite often find it quite overwhelming to deal with insurance companies. They also often feel uncertain about their rights. To address these problems, it is required to present some proof that will validate your case.
Contact the dog owner's insurance company and file a claim against the attack. Be prepared for specific inquiries from the insurer regarding the event. Dog bite laws may impact your potential recovery.
A lawyer who is experienced in handling dog bite cases will properly represent your interest. They will work hard to guarantee that your compensation is maximized and all of your injury-related expenses are covered.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Dog Bite Claim
Postponing medical treatments is a common mistake in dog bite cases. Delayed medical assistance can have serious consequences since it leads to undocumented medical injuries. Securing witness statements and photographs is obligatory for a dog bite victim for claiming damages.
Avoid talking on social media about what happened in your case, as it might potentially compromise it.
Don't accept the initial offer of the insurance company. This is usually much less than what should have been demanded. Now that you are aware of the pitfalls, there is much that you can do to avoid them.
Dog bite cases may become complex, but with the right steps, you can approach them fairly easily.
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