Dog Bite Lawyers Can Help You with Dog Bite Injury Claim

Los Angeles dog bite lawyer might be approached if a dog bite has caused damages requiring medical expenses or loss of income. Dog bites are not uncommon in Los Angeles or United States. Annually it has been estimated that there are about 5 million individuals getting dog bites, out of which 16% are serious and need medical assistance.

Dog bites could become more severe in cases of children. Statistics has shown that 20% of all emergency cases for children are caused by dog bites. Death from dog bites though uncommon does take place is stray incidents. Dog bite victims are mainly friends and family members of a dog owner. Bite from a known dog is less frightening since the dog involved is kept under watch and could be observed for abnormalities. A stray dog bite is usually more dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.

Dog bites in certain cases could result in lasting injuries and disabilities. Los Angeles dog owners have a responsibility of keeping their pets under control and take precautions that they do not cause harm to others. In case a dog owner fails in restraining his pet from biting, a lawsuit against the said dog owner might be filed. A Los Angeles dog bite lawyer could help you in claiming such damages.

The first step to take in case you get a dog bite is to go for medical assistance. Though a dog bite may appear insignificant it might lead to infection and other complications if left unattended. Identify the dog owner and notify him or her aware of the bite.
This has a dual purpose:
i)    To restrain the dog from biting further
ii)    Submission of insurance claim by the owner.

After reporting the dog bite to the owner, make separate reports to the police and local animal control body. These reports are written evidences of your dog attack. Strengthen your case by getting names and contact details of witnesses. The higher the number of witnesses the better is the possibility of getting compensation. Photographs of the dog bite before and after medication are added evidences. Preserve any clothing that might have been torn at the time of dog attack.

Unlike many states that have a ‘one bite’ rule in case of dog bites, Los Angeles law allows for damages even in case a dog bites for the first time. For claiming damages a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer must be able to prove that the victim was bitten while on  private property lawfully or on public property. The lawyer should also be able to prove that the dog bite led to an injury to the victim, and that the accused person is the dog owner.

After it is proved that a dog owner is responsible for his pet dog’s bite the victim might claim damages. Monetary compensation from the dog owner could be on account of medical expenses, loss of income, lifetime care and suffering. A Los Angles dog bite lawyer could help you in claiming all or some of these damages for the victim. In certain instances penal damages might also be claimed if it is proved that a dog attack was done on purpose by the owner.

It is always advisable to appoint an experienced dog bite lawyer for filing and processing such cases in this city’s courts of law.