Dogs are man’s best friend. They’re our companions, our protection from intruders and some of the gentlest creatures on the planet. Unfortunately, not all dogs fall into this mold. Due to various circumstances, some dogs are more fierce and aggressive than others.
Dog bites are often unexpected and unpredictable. They are the second leading cause of injury to minors and approximately 800,000 victims seek medical treatment every year from dog bites. One out of every three home owner’s liability insurance claims is from a dog bite attack. In fact, more than one billion dollars is paid out annually through these claims.
Like most personal injury lawsuit settlements, the goal of a dog bite settlement is to recover damages. Dog bites range in severity but damages can be ongoing. They can trickle into many aspects of our lives, including:
- Loss of wages
- Permanent scars
- Emotional and psychological suffering
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Plastic surgery costs
If you or someone you know has been bit by a dog, please seek medical treatment first. Once the victim is stable and the dog has been restrained, a report should be made immediately. If it’s available, obtain proof of the dog’s registration and vaccination. In addition to the report, it’s important to take pictures of the injury with a high quality camera. Depending on the severity of the bite, the report should be with either the local animal control department or the local police department. In severe cases, authorities will conduct an investigation.
Before speaking with your insurance carrier or claims adjuster, please contact a Sacramento dog bite attorney. Victims have the legal right to an attorney to help seek compensation for injuries caused by someone’s negligence or actions. Our Sacramento attorneys will help you determine how to best handle your claim. Most property owner’s insurance policies cover dog bite claims and some help with medical bills. Dog bite cases vary dramatically from case to case. Depending on the case, owners could face fines and penalties for their offences. If they don’t comply, they may face civil or criminal consequences as well. The Sacramento dog bite attorney at Eason & Tambornini, A Law Corporation, will maximize your compensation and protect your interests. They understand your legal rights and options and the laws in place to protect you. The value of each case varies dramatically. Let our attorneys help you determine the value of your case.
