Personal Injury Lawyer | Dog Bite Injuries
Personal Injury Lawyer | Dog Bite Injuries
Personal Injury Lawyer | What typically takes place in a dog bite injury case?
Personal injury lawyers know that dog bites can produce very serious injuries. Sometimes the bite is the result of an unsupervised or unrestrained dog, while other times the attack may occur with little or no warning when the animal appears docile. Regardless of the situation, filing charges or an injury claim without a personal injury lawyer can be difficult, especially when the owner of the dog cannot be identified. However, many times the owner can be identified and often the case never goes to court.
It is important to understand that many states are “one bite” states regarding dog attacks. The first bite is essentially free, and settling the case can be a simple matter when sufficient insurance coverage is in place. But, other cases are not as simple and a personal injury lawyer will be necessary for equitable settlement of the case. This is especially true when attacks occur involving certain breeds of dogs that are classified as vicious. Many states actually require dog owners to keep their dogs on their own property and maintain a specific insurance coverage minimum.
The first step in filing a dog bite claim is to seek medical treatment and contact the police for an official report. Just as any other personal injury claim, documentation solidifies the claim. But, dog owners are also normally held to strict liability standard, meaning the plaintiff or their personal injury lawyers need not prove negligence on the part of the dog owner. Always seek medical attention first because bites from rabid dogs can be fatal, or at least result in significant pain and suffering. Rabid dog bites can be very serious and actually create a criminal situation.
Personal injury lawyers also know that these cases can be complicated and often defended vigorously. Comparative negligence defense can also be applied when the victim has displayed a reasonable assumption of risk with their personal action toward the dog. Striking or swiping at a dog can easily produce a reaction when the animal feels threatened, which can be a material case fact in some situations. Having a personal injury lawyer representing your case is important for whole compensation for injuries.
Anyone who has been bitten by a dog in our region should contact the personal injury lawyers at Clekis Law Firm and let them evaluate your case for maximum recovery potential. The best way to receive a fair settlement in a dog bite injury case is with an experienced and aggressive personal injury lawyer.
Since 1989, the personal injury lawyers of Clekis Law Firm have been representing injured people and their families in Charleston and throughout the Low Country. At the Clekis Law Firm our clients always come first. If you or a loved one has suffered a serious personal injury due to the negligence of another, don’t be victimized twice. You need someone on your side to help you with your personal injury case and obtain the fair and reasonable compensation that you deserve. Call Clekis at 843.779.1160!
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