Many people consider dogs to be a member of the family and enjoy the many health benefits of owning a dog. With the prevalence of dogs in our society, there is also the prevalence of serious injuries due to a dog bite or attack. If you or your child has been injured by a dog, you may be feeling overwhelmed by your physical and financial recovery. The dog bite attorneys of the injury firm, Brandon J. Broderick understand the pain and frustration of dealing with an unexpected incident that has upended your life. We have decades of experience compassionately representing injured victims and their families.
At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we believe in compassionate client care and an honest, straightforward approach. To us, that means an experience free from legalese, hype, hassle, and intimidation. When you hire a dog bite lawyer from our team, you pay nothing upfront. We work on contingent fees that are only collected if we win your case. That means if we don’t win, you don’t pay.
Many dog bite injury victims may know or be related to the dog’s owner and feel bad about considering a lawsuit. However, many dog bite claims are paid from a homeowner's insurance policy. Filing a dog bite claim does not mean that dog will be euthanized. Without a legal claim, you may be left having to pay for the costs of your injuries on your own. Contact us today and let us turn your setback into a comeback.
For a free consultation with a compassionate dog bite lawyer, call (877) 448-7350
Throughout this article, we will cover information regarding dog bite injuries and claims.
Turn Your Setback Into a Comeback
Settlements and Compensation for Dog Bites
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
Brandon J. Broderick is Here for You 24/7
Turn Your Setback Into a Comeback
Recover the full cost of medical expenses—now and in the future
Being involved in a dog attack can be traumatic, causing lasting physical and psychological injuries. It's important to consider your rights and understand what your medical needs may be down the line. Give yourself time to fully consider the scope of your injuries and how those injuries not only affect your expenses now but also your quality of life. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured, compensation should include the cost of medical bills incurred in the immediate aftermath as well as any medical expenses in the future. Don’t make the mistake of settling too quickly.
Experienced negotiators and litigators
Because dog bite liability is straightforward, many injured victims falsely believe they do not need a lawyer. Even though liability may not be in question, an insurance company can still devalue your claim and refuse to pay for all damages. By having legal representation, Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, will handle all communications with the insurance company on your behalf and work toward securing the compensation you rightfully deserve.
By your side.
Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law will step in and handle everything so you can focus on healing. Our firm of experienced attorneys will work with you to achieve the settlement that you deserve. We will do everything possible to defend your rights and will work with you by your side to help you through such a trying time. Contact Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, for a free consultation. With our proven track record of success and our commitment to client care, we can turn your setback into a comeback.
Dog Bite Law
When an individual is bitten by a dog, the owner's responsibility for the injuries is determined by specific legal principles that vary by jurisdiction. These laws generally fall into two main categories: strict liability and the "one-bite rule." In jurisdictions with strict liability statutes, the dog's owner is held responsible for the bite and any resulting injuries, regardless of whether the dog had ever shown aggression before. The victim typically only needs to prove that the defendant owned the dog and that the bite occurred while the victim was lawfully on the property.
In contrast, other areas follow a doctrine commonly known as the "one-bite rule." This rule generally protects an owner from liability for the first time their dog bites someone, unless the victim can prove the owner knew or should have known that their dog had dangerous propensities. This prior knowledge could be established by showing the dog had a history of growling, lunging, or other aggressive behaviors. Beyond these primary doctrines, an owner can also be held liable under a standard negligence theory if they failed to use reasonable care to control their dog, such as violating a local leash law, which led to the injury. In all cases, a dog owner may have a defense if the injured person was trespassing, committing a crime, or provoking the dog into attacking. Dog bite lawsuits can be complex; it is important to consult with an experienced dog bite attorney as soon as possible after a dog bite attack.
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Dog Bite Negligence Claims
A dog bite victim can pursue a negligence claim by arguing that the owner failed to exercise reasonable care in controlling their animal, leading directly to the injury. Unlike "strict liability" or "one-bite" rules that focus on the dog's history, a negligence claim centers entirely on the owner's actions or inactions at the time of the incident. To succeed, the injured person must prove four key elements.
First, they must establish that the owner had a duty to prevent their dog from harming others, a responsibility all pet owners generally share. Second, they must show the owner breached that duty through a specific careless act, such as violating a local leash law, leaving a gate unlatched despite knowing the dog could escape, or failing to control a visibly agitated dog around visitors. Third, the victim must prove causation, meaning the owner's specific breach of duty was the direct cause of the bite and subsequent injuries. Finally, the victim must demonstrate they suffered actual damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, as a result of the attack. In this type of claim, the dog's prior history is not the central issue; rather, it is the owner's failure to act as a reasonably prudent person would under the circumstances that forms the basis of liability.
Children and Dog Bite Claims
When a dog bites a child, the resulting legal claim involves several unique considerations that distinguish it from cases involving adult victims. Children, especially very young ones, are often seen by the law as being incapable of understanding the risk an animal poses, which can significantly weaken common defenses like provocation or trespassing. An act that might be considered provocation if done by an adult, such as pulling a dog's tail, may not be viewed the same way when done by a toddler who lacks the capacity to know better. This special protection recognizes that children's natural curiosity and naivete can place them in vulnerable situations around animals.
Furthermore, the legal process itself adapts to protect the child's interests. The statute of limitations—the time limit for filing a lawsuit—is typically "tolled" or paused for a minor victim. This means the deadline to file a claim is often extended until the child reaches the age of 18, allowing them ample time to understand the full extent of their injuries before pursuing legal action. The damages sought in these cases are also distinct, often focusing on the long-term consequences of the attack. Compensation frequently covers not just immediate medical bills but also the projected costs of future procedures like scar revision surgery, as well as damages for significant psychological trauma, such as PTSD, cynophobia (fear of dogs), and the emotional distress associated with permanent scarring, which can impact a child for a lifetime.
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Settlements and Compensation for Dog Bite Claims
When you suffer injuries in a dog attack, you may receive compensation for both monetary and non-monetary harm. The damages awarded include both past and future economic losses, which means you receive compensation based on the expenses incurred at the time of the accident and economic damages expected in the future.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are awarded based on your financial losses because of the accident, which typically include medical bills and lost wages. The full cost of your medical expenses—both in the immediate aftermath of the accident and ongoing treatment—is included in economic damages. Examples of medical expenses include:
- Hospital bills
- Doctor’s ’visits, co-pays, and bills
- Physical or occupational therapists
- Medical devices and aids
- Prescriptions and medications
- Other medical costs, like transportation to and from appointment
Lost wages are exactly what they sound like. If you had to miss work or are not able to return to work at the same type of job, you may be able to receive compensation for the lost wages and future lost wages you would have otherwise made.
The higher the amount of your medical bills and other damages that you are seeking, the more complex the negotiation becomes—and the more important it is to enlist the help of a dog attack lawyer who can do all of the negotiations on your behalf. Most insurance adjusters will take you seriously if you pursue a high-value claim with the help of an attorney, making it much easier to obtain fair compensation.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering refers to non-economic damages, or those that do not have a monetary value, per se, such as the physical and/or emotional stress associated with the animal bite injury. Types of pain and suffering awards include:
- Physical pain
- Mental anguish
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
There are no specific rules around how pain and suffering are calculated in a claim. Insurance companies look at the severity and permanency of your bodily injuries. The more severe and permanent your injury is, the more pain and suffering you will experience and thus typically receive a higher award.
If you’ve been injured in an animal attack, contact Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, for a free consultation. Call us at (877) 448-7350
Time Limits for Filing a Dog Bite Claim
In all jurisdictions, a critical legal deadline known as the statute of limitations governs the time frame for filing a dog bite lawsuit. This law establishes a firm and final window within which an injured person must initiate a legal claim for damages. Failing to file a lawsuit within this specified period will almost certainly result in the permanent loss of the right to seek compensation, regardless of the severity of the injury or the clarity of the dog owner's fault. The countdown for this deadline typically begins on the date the bite occurred. However, certain exceptions can alter this timeline; for instance, if the victim is a minor, the statute of limitations is often "tolled," or paused, until the child reaches the age of 18. Due to the strict enforcement of these deadlines, it is essential for anyone injured by a dog to understand the specific time constraints applicable to their case promptly.
You should contact a dog bite lawyer as soon as possible after the incident. There are many steps and investigations a seasoned personal injury attorney will go through before even formally filing a claim. Consulting with a lawyer as soon as possible after the animal attack will not only protect you against the statute of limitations expiring but also strengthen your case.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bite injuries range from minor injuries like cuts and abrasions to serious, life-threatening injuries that require months or years of treatment and rehabilitation. In the most severe situations, dog bites can cause fatal injuries, with small children and the elderly being most at risk for fatal dog bites.
The face, hands and feet are the most common areas of the body injured in a dog bite. Bone fractures and torn ligaments are prevalent occurrences in these areas, which can lead to the need for extensive or multiple surgeries to repair the damages. Because the blood supply to the extremities is not robust, this can also lead to infections and difficulty healing.
In more vicious dog attacks, injuries can also include avulsions, amputations and nerve damage. These very severe injuries can leave a victim with permanent or lasting disabilities that can prevent them from fully recovering.
The most common and serious threats associated with dog bite cases are the infections that often develop at the injury site. Capnocytophaga is a bacteria that lives in the mouths of dogs and other animals. While the bacteria don’t make the animals sick, it can cause serious infection and even sepsis in humans. Rabies, tetanus, and MRSA are also potentially deadly bacteria strains that live in the mouths of dogs that can be transmitted to humans.
Dog Bite Prevention
Any dog can bite. While certain breeds may get a lot of public attention for dog bites, any dog could bite, especially as a reaction to something. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends three key ways to prevent dog bites—education, responsible pet ownership, and avoiding risky situations. The study’s authors also suggest that one of the best ways of preventing harm to children is to ensure children and dogs are always supervised when together.
Education and responsible pet ownership go hand in hand. As a dog owner, it's your responsibility to first choose a dog that works well for your family and environment. Secondly, educate yourself on proper training and socialization techniques to help prevent a dog attack.
Even if you’ve owned your dog for a long period of time, your dog’ needs may change. For instance, the coronavirus pandemic caused a puppy boom and a subsequent rise in dog bite injuries. If your dog has not been socialized in a while, it's important to keep educated on ways to reintroduce your furry companion back into the world.
If you are bitten by a dog, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water and then seek medical attention. Make sure to report the dog attack to the police or your local animal control agency. If your wounds require medical attention, it's best to consult with a seasoned dog attack lawyer who can advise you on your next steps.
Many clients feel a sense of relief once they make that first phone call. Contact us at (877) 448-7350 for a free consultation.
Dog Bite Statistics
Dog bites are very common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur in the United States each year, which means that a dog bites 1 out of every 73 people in the US. And 800,000 of those bites result in medical care, with, on average, 31 people killed by a dog each year.
Dog Bite FAQ
Should I get a lawyer for a dog bite claim?
Working with experienced dog bite attorneys can make all the difference in the compensation you receive. Even if liability is straightforward, insurance companies often devalue claims and offer lowball settlements to injured victims. A lawyer will have the expertise and knowledge to negotiate and deal with insurance companies on your behalf. Most personal injury attorneys work on contingent fees that are only collected if you win your case.
Will the dog be euthanized if I file a claim?
Generally, a dog will not be euthanized if you file a claim after it bites someone. After a dog bite is reported to Animal Control, an officer will investigate to ensure the dog’s vaccinations are up to date. If an attack was extremely vicious or, in the case of repeated bites, the municipality may require certain actions by the dog owner.
Brandon J. Broderick Is Here For You 24/7
A dog attack can be a traumatic event that can leave lasting physical and mental injuries. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we take the time to listen to and understand our clients’ concerns, needs and well-being. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we believe in compassionate client care and an honest, straightforward approach. We are an experienced, passionate law firm that will seek your best outcome so you can focus on your family and recovery.
When you hire a dog bite attorney from our team at Brandon J. Broderick, you pay nothing upfront. We work on contingent fees that are only collected if we win your case. Without a legal claim, the insurance company can offer you a lowball offer that barely covers any of your needs, leaving you to pay for the costs of your injuries on your own.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Our dog bite attorneys are available 24 hours to assist you.