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Dog Attack Personal Injury Cases

Posted by Alan Fassonaki | Apr 24, 2023

Although many people believe that dogs are man's best friend, not all canines are sociable. Dog attacks on humans that result in serious injury or even death are reported every year. Understanding the legal procedure for bringing a personal injury action is crucial if you or someone you know has been injured by a dog attack.

What is a dog attack?

When a dog bites, nips, or otherwise hurts a person, it is considered a dog attack. From slight scratches to catastrophic bites that need medical attention, the severity of the injury might vary. Dog attacks occasionally cause fatalities, disfigurement, or even lifelong scarring.

Dog attacks can occur in a range of locations, including open spaces like parks and streets as well as on private property like a person's home or yard. Dog owners are frequently blamed for the actions of their pets.

Who is responsible?

In Los Angeles, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their animals, meaning that they are accountable for any injuries that their dogs cause, whether or not they were aware of the animal's danger.

For instance, the dog owner may not be held responsible for any injuries that arise if a person provokes a dog or trespasses on someone else's property. However, certain states have a "one bite" rule, which holds that if a dog has never before displayed aggressive behavior, its owner may not be held responsible for any harm the dog causes.

Things to Take Into Account if a Dog Bites You

The first thing you should do after being bitten by a dog in Los Angeles is seek medical assistance. To ensure that there is no risk of infection or other consequences, it is crucial to have the bite examined by a medical specialist even if it seems minor.

After receiving medical care, you ought to get in touch with a qualified dog bite lawyer that focuses on personal injury claims.

In a case involving a dog attack and personal injuries, what can you recover?

If a dog attacked you in Los Angeles, you might be entitled to financial compensation for your suffering, including:

1. Medical costs: These charges cover the price of any medical care you required as a result of the dog attack, including hospital costs, doctor visits, and prescription drugs.

2. Compensation for pain and suffering: This covers the harm you endured due to the dog attack, both physically and emotionally.

3. Disfigurement and persistent scarring: You may be eligible for further compensation if the dog attack resulted in disfigurement or permanent scarring.

4. Property damage: If the dog causes harm to your clothing or other possessions during the assault, you might be entitled to get reimbursed for the expense of fixing or replacing those things.

What to anticipate?

After a dog attack, you should anticipate the following steps if you want to pursue a personal injury claim in Los Angeles:

Investigation: Your lawyer will look into the details of the dog attack, including the dog's past and any potential witnesses.

Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, a trial may be necessary in your case. Before a judge or jury, your attorney will make arguments and present evidence in support of your cause during the trial.

Judgment: If your action is successful, you will be awarded damages. If you lose, you won't be compensated.

Lawyer for Personal Injury From Dog Attack

Experience is important while seeking for a personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles for a dog attack. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer will understand how to work within the legal system and get their client the best result. They will be conversant with the regulations governing dog attacks and know how to bargain with insurance providers.

The level of focus in these cases should be taken into account while choosing an attorney. It's crucial to engage with a personal injury lawyer who is knowledgeable in this field because personal injury law can be complicated. A personal injury lawyer will be knowledgeable about the law as it relates to personal injury matters and will know how to present your case persuasively.

It's critical to pick a personal injury attorney who is a suitable fit for your needs. It's crucial to have a lawyer you feel at ease dealing with because personal injury cases can be emotionally and mentally taxing. Find a lawyer who listens to your requirements and worries and who is communicative and responsive. A competent lawyer will collaborate with you to create a plan that supports your objectives and keep you updated at every stage of the court case.

Conclusion

Investigation, completion of treatment, demand, negotiation, litigation, and judgment are the procedures you might anticipate if you choose to pursue a personal injury claim after a dog attack. The circumstances surrounding the dog attack, including the dog's past and any potential witnesses, will be looked into by your attorney. To reach a settlement that suitably compensates you for your injuries, they will then enter into negotiations with the dog owner's insurance company.

In the event that a settlement cannot be reached, your case can proceed to trial, where your lawyer would present evidence and make their case in front of a judge or jury. If you prevail in court, you will be awarded compensation for your losses.

About the Author

Alan Fassonaki

What inspired me to practice personal injury law? I was 9 and imagining the win. My mother was driving me to my basketball game. My older sister came along to support me. While on the road, I thought about practice and replayed our team's game-plan in my mind. Suddenly, I hea...

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