4 Questions You'll Likely Have When Bitten By Someone's Dog

Were you recently injured due to someone's dog biting you and don't know what to do? You likely have some questions about this unique injury case.

Can You Sue The Dog's Owner?

You should be compensated for a dog bite due to a dog owner's negligence, which is why it is possible to sue them in court for the damages that were caused. You are able to not only receive compensation for your medical bills, but for other losses such as lost wages, pain and suffering, and medical goods you need to purchase.

What If The Dog Does Not Have A History Of Aggressive Behavior?

It's important not to assume that the dog needs to have some sort of history of aggressive behavior. That is because the law is different in every state when it comes to the dog's history of biting. Some states have a one-bite law, which is when the owner would only be found responsible if the dog was known to be dangerous to others. The dog is essentially given a pass on the first incident where they bite someone.

However, many states do not have one-bite laws, since they have been replaced with strict liability laws instead. This makes the dog's owner automatically responsible for a dog bite injury, regardless of if the dog had a history of biting or not. 

Would The Dog Owner's Insurance Pay For The Damages?

If you decide to file a lawsuit, know that you'll likely be working with an insurance adjuster from the dog owner's insurance home provider. They will be using their liability insurance to help cover the damage that was caused by their dog. If the dog's owner does not have any type of liability insurance, then you'll need to take the individual to court to seek compensation. Keep in mind that it can be difficult to receive compensation if the person doesn't have any assets or income, even if you win in court. 

Should You Hire A Lawyer In A Dog Bite Injury Case?

A dog bite injury case is not always easy to win in court because there are a lot of factors at play that could not make the dog's owner liable for the accident. That's why it is worth working with a lawyer that specializes in dog bite injury cases. They'll give you the best assistance with navigating the legal system so that you can get the compensation you deserve.

For more information, contact a dog bite lawyer near you.