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Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Bite Law

25 12:04:16

Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Bite Law

Although dogs are often referred to as man's best friend, their bites can cause serious injuries. In fact, more than 4.7 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year and nearly 800,000 of those bites require some type of medical attention. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog, it is important to consult experienced personal injury lawyers in Camden to ensure that you receive financial compensation for your losses. Read on to get the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about dog bite law.

What Should I Do if I've Been Hurt by a Dog?

If you've been attacked by a dog, or witnessed a dog attacking someone else, you have the legal right to take whatever action is necessary to stop the attack. After the attack, it is important to take the following steps to protect your rights:

  • Get the names and contact information of the dog's owner and any witnesses.
  • Get medical attention if you need it and keep detailed records of any expenses.
  • Report the incident to animal control.
  • Check with animal control for records of prior attacks by the dog.

Is the Dog Owner Liable?

In most cases, dog owners are held financially responsible for any type of personal injury or property damage their dogs may cause. The following laws impose liability on dog owners:

  • Dog-bite statutes: Most states have laws that make dog owners legally responsible for any type of personal injury or property damage they may cause. The dog owner is automatically held liable if the statute applies.
  • One-bite rule: This rule makes the dog owner legally responsible for an injury that the owner knew the dog was likely to cause.
  • Negligence laws: The owner is held legally responsible for any injury resulting from their negligence in controlling the dog.

What Type of Damages Is the Dog Owner Liable For?

A dog owner who is found legally responsible for a personal injury or property damage may be held responsible for reimbursing the victim for any of the following damages:

  • Medical bills
  • Lost income
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage
  • Loss of services
  • Multiple damages
  • Punitive damages

Who Pays for Dog Bite Damages?

Depending upon the specific situation of the legal claim, damages resulting from a dog bite injury may be paid by any of the following sources:

  • Homeowner's insurance: In most cases, homeowner's insurance will cover the cost of damages resulting from dog bites that occurred on the policy holder's property.
  • Auto insurance: Damages caused by dog bites that occurred in the owner's vehicle may be covered by their auto insurance.
  • Animal insurance: Specialty insurance companies may cover the cost of damages caused by an insured dog.
  • The owner: If the dog owner does not have any type of insurance that covers dog bites, they will be held personally responsible for any damages that result from an attack.

Do I Need a Dog Bite Lawyer?

Of the millions of dog bites that occur each year in the U.S., less than 1% of victims receive compensation for their losses. Unfortunately, dog bites often go unreported, and many others are denied or undercompensated by insurance companies. Dog bite lawyers understand complicated liability and personal injury laws and are skilled at negotiating with difficult insurance companies. Statistics show that victims who hire dog bite lawyers receive 3 to 5 times more compensation than they could get on their own. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog, consulting personal injury lawyers in Camden is an essential step in protecting your rights and receiving the financial compensation that you rightfully deserve.