An animal attack is a frightening event to experience. The bite of a dog or other animal or the sudden kick of a horse can result in severe injury and permanent scarring, or in the case of small children, may result in death. In the aftermath of a dog bite attack, you may be reeling with shock, fear, pain, and unsure what to do next. If you or a family member has been bitten by a dog or other type of animal due to the owner’s negligence, you may be entitled to receive compensation.
An owner may be found negligent for not keeping an animal contained or not supervising the animal responsibly. The experienced personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of David. W. Holub have represented people injured by dogs, horses, and even a bull that escaped from a pen in a game and wildlife facility. A Merrillville dog bite lawyer from our firm is always available to consult with you on this type of injury case. The initial consultation is free, and if we accept your case, we will work on a contingency fee basis, which means we do not charge a fee until we obtain money for you.
Negligence in Dog Bite Attacks
Animal bites are another type of legal claim that relates to the ownership of property. Just as it can be negligent to have a property hazard that will cause people to fall when they come on the property, it can also be negligent to have a dog, horse, or other animal where it creates a hazard to people coming onto the property. So, too, can liability arise from an animal—which is treated as an item of property—escaping from a property where it is usually kept safe and secure.
In Indiana, dog owners are held to a very tough standard when their animal attacks someone. A dog owner can be held legally liable if they were aware or should have been aware of the potential dangers posed by their animal and did not take appropriate action to prevent an attack. For example, suppose the dog that bit you had a prior history of aggression or violence, and the owner knew about it; these are elements that could be used to demonstrate that the dog owner was negligent and may be liable for your damages from the incident.
Receiving medical treatment is the most important following an attack. However, if possible, try to obtain evidence from the scene of the accident, such as the dog owner’s insurance information, photos and videos of your injuries, and any other relevant details that could prove extremely helpful during a legal case. Additionally, a reputable Merrillville dog bite attorney could investigate liability for your injuries and handle any challenges that may arise with the insurance company.
Filing a Dog Bite Claim
Numerous factors can affect the severity of a dog bite injury and the potential value of a subsequent compensation claim. These can include the size of the dog, the age of the victim, and the classification of the bite. For example, while a light wound from a dog bite might heal with basic medical care, a deep puncture could result in extensive nerve and tissue damage. Some victims may even suffer fractured or broken bones, depending on the viciousness of the dog.
A serious dog bite injury may not only require initial medical care—such as a few stitches—but also multiple surgeries and other costly medical treatments. Victims may suffer:
- Infections
- Disfigurement
- Long-term scarring
- The loss of an extremity
- A disability due to the impact of the attack
Depending on the severity of the attack, dog bite injuries can have a permanent impact on your quality of life, including a financial, emotional, and psychological toll. A well-practiced Merrillville attorney could fight to hold a negligent dog owner legally accountable for the full scope of losses associated with the injuries.
Enlist the Help of a Merrillville Dog Bite Attorney for Your Claim
The Law Offices of David W. Holub could step in if you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog and work to secure every penny you deserve for your injuries. In addition to your medical bills and lost wages, we can also pursue compensation for your pain, suffering, emotional anguish, and more.
You need a lawyer who will work tirelessly to collect all available evidence and build a compelling claim for compensation that clearly demonstrates the owner’s liability. A seasoned Merrillville Dog Bite Lawyer from our firm could explore the merits of your case and manage every aspect of your claim so that you can focus on recovery. Call us today.
For more on this subject see the video below from our YouTube channel.