Dog owners are strictly liable for bites under state law. That means when a person's dog bites someone else, the owner is legally responsible, even if the dog has never attacked anyone before. The owner is also likely on the hook for any injuries that occur in cases where someone is injured while trying to escape a threatening dog. That includes not only medical bills related to physical injuries, but also any psychological or emotional damages, as well as the cost of related counseling and psychotherapy. Many dog bite claims are covered by a person's homeowner's insurance policy, and a victim may seek recover directly from the insurance company. In addition, a person bitten by a dog on the job may also be entitled to
workers' compensation
benefits.
It is therefore crucial that a person seeking legal relief in relation to an animal attack clearly show the full extent of any and all related injuries, and establish just how long these injuries are expected to last. The victim must also establish that the person being sued is actually the pet's owner or keeper.
Dogs aren't always man's best friend. While these furry little creatures are usually loyal and adorable, some can also be quite vicious. Dog bites and other animal attacks often cause serious, and in some cases lifelong, physical injuries. That's not to mention the extensive psychological damage that can result from a bite. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 800,000 people seek medical attention for dog bites across the country each year, nearly half of which require emergency room care.
At Howard, Fine, and Howard, P.C., we are a full service personal injury law firm whose dog bite attorneys have significant experience representing clients who have been injured in animal attacks throughout the state. Serving clients since 1994, we offer attentive and personalized legal services, and aggressively protect our clients’ rights while seeking to maximize the financial recovery to which they are entitled. If you have been injured in an animal attack, contact the New Rockbridge personal injury lawyers at HFH Law.