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Dogs are more than just pets. They’re companions that provide comfort and protection. Unfortunately, they’re also the cause of millions of personal injuries each year. According to the CDC, over 4.5 million people in the US are bitten or attacked by dogs every year. Crazy, right? Out of that number, just over 800,000 need substantial medical attention.
Despite the dog’s actions, the owner is ultimately responsible for the behavior and consequences of the canine. Here’s everything you need to know about dog bite injury settlements.
Dog bites and attacks are responsible for serious and sometimes fatal injuries. Many dog bites result in significant injuries.
As much as we’d like to say the chances of your dog bite injury are low, it ultimately depends on the dog’s breed and size. The size and breed will determine the most damage a dog can inflict with a bite. When assessing the severity of your injury, a qualified attorney will gauge the injury using the nationwide Dog Bite Scale.
Though certain dog breeds are labeled as dangerous, any dog (no matter how well-trained) is capable of causing a serious injury. If ever injured by a dog, get in touch with a reputable attorney to explore your options for compensation.
There are a number of ways you can receive compensation for a dog bite injury. The average settlement of a dog-related injury is upward of $50,000. However, in order to secure the right amount of compensation, you need proper documentation. With the right evidence, you can prove the dog owner’s negligence and attain an appropriate compensation amount.
Two distinct laws will impact the success of your dog bite settlement. There are 15 states with the “strict liability,” and the remaining states (35) abide by the “one bite rule.”
Dog bites and dog attacks are traumatic experiences that should be prevented at all costs. In some cases, dog attacks result in serious lacerations, permanent damage, or even death. Before discussing the legal responsibilities, let’s first talk about what makes a dog dangerous.
By the above list, you can determine whether your dog is dangerous.
We can’t stress the importance of knowing the dog laws for your state (and sometimes county). Ultimately, state or county compliance will determine the dog bite statutes and personal injury liabilities.
If you’ve been hurt by a dog, contact a litigator. It may not be too late. If within the statute of limitations, you can secure the compensation you deserve. If proven to be negligent, the at-fault dog owner may be financially responsible for the actions of their canine. Don’t wait another moment. Speak with the David Shapiro at Shapiro Law Team.
We’ll build a compelling case, negotiate on your behalf, and obtain a settlement so you and your family can begin to heal and move past this unfortunate incident. If you’re seeking professional counsel, request a free consultation or stop by our Scottsdale office today.