Hiring a trusted dog bite lawyer is a wise choice
According to dog bite statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs every year in the United States. About 800,000 of those people have injuries serious enough to require medical attention. Dogs’ behavior can be unpredictable, and their bites can lead to severe injuries. More than half of the reported dog bites that occur every year happen to children. These injuries can lead an emotional trauma that may affect a person for a lifetime.
If you had not provoked the dog, you may be able to recover damages for the injuries that you suffered as a result of the dog bite. To seek these damages, you will have to file the a claim for compensation with the insurance company of the person who owned the dog or file a lawsuit.
What are common injuries and complications that result from dog bites?
Dogs have sharp teeth, which may lead to severe injuries. There are also instances in which people experience emotional trauma and develop various types of fears. Here are some of the complications that may occur in Montgomery County dog bite cases:
- Broken bonds
- Scars
- Lacerations
- Head injuries
- Nerve damage
- Eye injuries
- Facial disfigurement
- Rabies
- Neck injuries
- Tetanus and other infections
When a dangerous dog bites you, the first thing you should do is immediately move to a safe place to avoid further injuries. Even when there are no immediate signs of injury, it is important to consult your health care provider. A doctor can evaluate your injuries and prescribe the proper treatment to you. You must also ask the dog owner about the dog’s health and its rabies immunization. If you experience severe damage or pain, you should call for an ambulance or immediately go to the hospital. Getting proper medical attention in such a case is crucial, as it can affect your injury claim. Some victims may have to pay hefty medical bills, and winning a settlement can help you decrease the financial burden.
What damages can a dog bite lawyer Montgomery County trusts recover for you?
Under the laws of Montgomery County, a dog owner must prevent unwanted contact with others. The dog owners must ensure that their dog does not harm any of their guests or anyone lawfully on the property. The dog owners in Montgomery County will have to face strict liability if their pet bites anyone. According to strict liability, the dog owner will be liable for all of the injuries the dog causes. It is applicable even when the dog had never previously been aggressive or had never bitten anyone before.
All dog owners owe a duty of care to the people who may become lawfully exposed to their pet. In the event that the dog bites someone, the dog owner has breached their duty of care, which satisfies the requirements for negligence. The victim has the legal right to pursue a negligence claim against the dog owner. Most of the dog bite cases that are brought each year settle outside the courtroom.
Here are some of the damages that you can recover in an injury claim:
- Medical expenses and hospital bills
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Amputation and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment in life
- Punitive damages
- Funeral expenses
- Other severe losses
These are some of the damages for which you can recover compensation under Pennsylvania laws. The size of the settlement you will receive will differ from case to case. It will depend on the severity of your injuries and your evidence. You must ensure that you have all the necessary evidence to support your case. It is important to note that working police dogs are exempt from these types of claims. Before proceeding with your claim, you should make sure that you have all the necessary evidence.
What is the statute of limitations for dog bite cases?
The statute of limitations to take action against a dog owner in dog bite cases in Montgomery County is two years. You can consult the dog bite lawyer Montgomery County trusts to pursue the necessary legal action. The lawyer will review your case and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. However, if you are not satisfied with the insurance company’s settlement, you can file a lawsuit. Your case may then reach the trial stage, and your legal professional can represent you in court.
Soon after the incident, it is important to take notes of everything that occurred when you were bitten so you do not to miss out on any details in court. Be sure that you prepare yourself and know how you will answer questions in the courtroom. Many dog bite victims face a common fear of being in court and forget to mention necessary details.
Based on your evidence, the court will reach a verdict regarding whether you should receive compensation and how much. Be sure that you have all the necessary documents and papers to support your claim. Your medical documents and the police report can help to strengthen your case.
Consult a reputable Montgomery County injury lawyer to discuss your case!
It is always better to discuss your case with an experienced attorney, immediately after the accident or right after seeking medical attention. Legal professionals have a deep understanding of tort law and the eligibility criteria for seeking compensation after a dog bite.
At the Law Offices of Samuel Fishman, you can talk to a highly experienced legal professional who can handle complex dog bite claims and help you pursue a compensation claim for your damages.