April 18, 2023
Dog bites are more common than people think, and they can cause serious injuries that require medical attention. In some cases, the injury can even lead to long-term consequences, such as scarring, nerve damage, or infections.
Therefore, if you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, it’s essential to know how to claim a dog bite injury to receive the compensation you deserve, and the experienced dog bite injury lawyer in California can help you effectively.
How to Claim a Dog Bite Injury?
Here’s what you need to know about dog bite claims:
Seek Medical Attention
The first thing you should do after being bitten by a dog is to seek medical attention immediately. Even if the bite seems minor, it’s essential to have it checked by a medical professional to ensure that it is not infected. Additionally, if the bite is severe, you may need stitches or other medical treatments to prevent scarring or other complications.
Contact Information
Once you have received medical treatment, gathering as much information about the dog and its owner as possible is crucial. This includes the owner’s name, phone number, and address, as well as the dog’s breed and age. You should also ask for the contact information of any witnesses who saw the attack.
Dog Bite Law
Each state has its own dog bite law, and it’s essential to understand the law in your state. Some states have a strict liability law, which means that the owner of the dog is responsible for any damages or injuries caused by their pet, regardless of whether they were negligent or not.
Other states require the victim to prove that the owner was negligent in order to receive compensation. The dog bite injury lawyer in California can help you know the laws and your rights.
File a Report with the Animal Control
After the attack, you should file a report with animal control or the local police department. This will create a record of the attack, which can be used later if you decide to file a lawsuit.
Additionally, animal control may investigate the dog to determine whether it is dangerous and should be removed from the owner’s care.
Collect Medical Records
If you plan to file a dog bite claim, collecting all your medical records related to the attack is essential. This includes medical bills, receipts for any medication or treatments, and any documentation of the long-term consequences of the injury. These records will be used to support your claim and calculate the damages you are owed.
Contact Insurance Companies
After you have gathered all the necessary information and medical records, it’s time to contact the dog owner’s insurance company. Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bites, and the insurance company will likely be responsible for compensating you for your damages.
However, it’s important to remember that insurance companies are often more concerned with their own profits than with paying out large settlements. And you should not settle for less and take the assistance of an experienced dog bite injury lawyer in California.
Personal Injury Lawyer
If you are having trouble getting compensation from the insurance company or the dog owner, consider hiring a personal injury lawyer.
A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and negotiate a fair settlement. Additionally, a lawyer can help you file a lawsuit if necessary and represent you in court.
Khashan Law’s Personal Injury Lawyers in Southern California help clients who have suffered from dog bite injuries. Be sure to get the expert legal support you need to make things right.
We offer a free call, free consultation, and free case evaluation to determine if you have a strong case. Let us fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Here are a few frequently asked questions:
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim?
The time limit for filing a dog bite claim varies by state. In some states, you may have as little as one year to file a claim, while in others, you may have up to three years. It’s important to consult with a personal injury lawyer to determine the statute of limitations in your state.
What damages can I recover in a dog bite case?
You may be able to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages related to the injury. Additionally, if the dog owner was grossly negligent or the dog was known to be dangerous, you may be able to recover punitive damages as well.