If you are wondering whether or not you have a strong case regarding a dog attack, it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney to learn more about your legal options and your claim’s validity. A dog attack attorney can help you gather evidence and build a strong argument in order to get the best possible outcome for your case.
Phillips Law Group has successfully represented many clients who have been injured by dogs. Our legal team can evaluate your case and help determine whether you are eligible to recover damages.
After being involved in a dog attack, do not hesitate to give us a call. We are available 24/7 to help you get started building your claim. Call us at (602) 222-2222 or fill in our online contact form to schedule a free case evaluation.
Understanding Dog Attack Laws
In some jurisdictions, dog owners are only liable for attacks that occur on public property or when the victim is an invitee or licensee on private property. So if you were attacked while walking down the street or in a park, you could have a strong case against the dog’s owner.
Especially when the owner knew that the dog was aggressive but failed to secure it properly and it escaped and attacked someone, he or she could be held liable.
If you were trespassing on private property at the time of the attack, however, the owner may not be held responsible. For example, Arizona is a strict liability state. In this state, an owner is responsible even if the dog has no prior history of aggression. However, if the attack occurred on private property and you were not invited onto the property, or you violated a “no trespassing” sign, you most likely would be found responsible for your own injuries.
The severity of your injuries will also be taken into account when determining whether or not you have a case. If you or a loved one involved did not require medical attention, it may be a challenge to successfully sue for certain damages. On the other hand, serious injuries that incurred significant medical expenses may mean you have a strong case against the dog’s owner.
You should contact a lawyer before making a decision. An experienced attorney can help you understand the legal options available that you were unaware of. If you are unsure whether or not you have a case, it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney who can evaluate your individual situation and advise you of your legal options.
Who is Liable for a Dog Attack on Private Property?
There are a few different scenarios in which someone might be liable for a dog attack on private property. If the property owner knew that the animal was dangerous and did not take steps to protect visitors from the animal, then he or she may be held liable.
Some states have “one bite” laws that protect dog owners from liability if they had no reason to believe their pets were dangerous. The best way to find out if you have a case is to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney who can evaluate your claim and advise you of your legal options.
How to Prove Your Case If You Are Attacked by a Dog
You may be able to recover damages for your injuries. Damages available to you may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Punitive damages
There are a few things that you will need to prove in order to hold the owner liable for a dog attack that occurred on private property:
- First, you will need to show that the owner knew or should have known about the dog’s dangerous propensities. This can be done by showing that the dog had a history of aggression or biting, or by presenting evidence that the owner was aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies and did not take steps to address them.
- Second, you will need to show that the owner was negligent in controlling the dog. This involves proving that the owner failed to use reasonable care in keeping the dog under control or else failed to warn you of the dangers posed by the animal.
- Finally, you will need to show that as a result of the owner’s negligence, you were injured by the dog. This can be done by presenting medical records documenting your injuries or by testifying about the pain and suffering you experienced as a result of the attack.
What to Do If You Are Attacked by a Dog on Private Property
If you feel you are at risk of being attacked by a dog on private property with little control over the circumstances, it is wise to plan in advance how to protect yourself.
When you find yourself confronted by an aggressive dog, remember these steps to protect yourself and your legal rights:
- Stay calm and avoid panicking. Panicking will only make the situation worse and could provoke the dog into attacking again. If you can, move away from the dog slowly and calmly. Do not turn your back on the dog or run away, as this could trigger an instinctual chase response. If you cannot get away, try to fight back and defend yourself. Once the dog is off of you, get to a safe place where you can call for help.
- Get medical treatment right away and keep all records of your injuries and treatmenteven if you do not think you were seriously injured. Dogs can carry diseases in their mouths that can be passed on to humans through a bite, so it is important to be checked out by a doctor just in case. Take pictures of your injuries as soon as possible after the attack.
- Gather witness statements from anyone who saw the attack take place. Be sure to get the contact information of any witnesses who saw the attack so they can provide a statement if needed. If there is video footage of the attack, get a copy of it. You should also report the incident to animal control or the police, which can help your case later on.
Phillips Law Group Can Help You Get the Compensation You Deserve
In review, after suffering a dog attack, you may be wondering whether you have a case. The answer depends on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the jurisdiction in which the attack occurred, and whether the animal’s owner can be held liable.
Lastly, it is important to note that strict liability laws vary from state to state. In some states, dog owners can be held strictly liable for any injuries their animals cause, regardless of whether they knew or should have known about a pet’s dangerous propensities. In other states, strict liability only applies in specific cases.
If you have been the victim of a dog attack and need legal representation, Phillips Law Group is here for you. Our knowledgeable legal team can examine your case and help you determine whether there was an injury or other damages involved.
Fill in our online contact form or call us at (602) 222-2222 to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more about how we can assist you. There is no obligation in connection with your conversation with us.
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