Dog bites can cause serious injuries, both physically and emotionally. It’s up to you and your Alexandria, VA dog bite lawyer to fight for the financial compensation you deserve. At Antezana & Antezana LLC, we’ve helped our clients for over 20 years. Now, we’re ready to help you. Here’s a guide to dog bite liability – read on, and contact us today if any of this looks familiar.
Liability For Dog Bite Injuries
In most cases, the dog’s owner is legally responsible for the actions of their pet. This means they may be required to cover the costs related to the injuries caused by the bite. Many states have laws that hold owners strictly liable, meaning the victim does not need to prove that the owner knew the dog was dangerous or had a history of aggression.
However, there are situations where the victim may need to show that the owner was careless in handling their dog. This might include failing to keep the dog on a leash or allowing it to roam freely in an area where people are present.
Insurance Coverage
Many dog bite claims are paid through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. These policies often include liability coverage that helps pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by the bite.
If the dog owner has insurance, the claim process usually involves working with their insurance company. This can make things somewhat easier, as the victim does not need to rely solely on the dog owner’s personal finances to cover the costs.
When The Dog Owner Is Not The Only Party At Fault
There are cases where someone other than the dog owner may share responsibility for the bite. For example, if a landlord knew a tenant’s dog was dangerous but failed to take action, the landlord could potentially be held liable.
Similarly, if a dog was brought into your workplace at the time of the attack, your employer may bear some responsibility for workers’ compensation. Each situation is unique, and your dog attack injury lawyer will have to look at all the facts to determine who is at fault.
Taking Action After A Dog Bite
If you have been bitten by a dog, there are important steps to take right away. First, seek medical care as soon as possible, even if the injury seems minor. Dog bites can lead to infections or other complications that require immediate attention.
Next, report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement. This creates an official record of the bite, which may be helpful later. If possible, gather information about the dog, its owner, and any witnesses who saw what happened.
Documenting the injury with photos and keeping copies of medical bills and reports can also help your pet bite lawyer build a strong case.
How We Can Help
Antezana & Antezana LLC has spent over 20 years helping clients just like you. From truck crashes to medical malpractice, our team has assisted with a broad range of personal injury claims. If you’re ready to get started, so are we. Get in touch, and see how an animal attack lawyer from our team can make a difference.
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