Dog Bite Claims: What You Need to Know

What to do When Pursuing a Dog Bite Claim

Dog bites happen more often than you think, and the injuries victims sustain can be life-altering. In fact, summer is the time of year when most dog bites occur. It is important to pursue these types of claims to get the compensation you need after a dog bite.

Medical bills, missed time from work and other related out-of-pocket expenses are just a few of the damages you can seek when pursuing a dog bite claim.

No matter how minor the injuries are, the owner of the dog that bit you is most likely liable for your injuries.

According to the American Veterinary Association, more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year. About one fifth of those bites will require medical attention.

Dog bite claims are typically covered by a person’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. 

A severe dog bite can affect a person’s physical and mental well-being.

What You should Do After a Dog Bite Incident:

• Receive medical attention. Treatment of your dog bite injury is not only crucial to your health but also your claim if you pursue one. Insurance adjusters will need to review your medical records to see the extent of your dog bite injury.
• Seek the identity of the dog that bit you and their owners. Obtain names, addresses and homeowners’ insurance information.
• File a report of your bite with your local municipality, police and/or dog warden. You can also seek records to see if this dog has been involved in other dog bite incidents.
• Keep a journal of all your medical appointments, expenses and the impact this incident has had on your life.
• Take photographs of the bite, including it’s healing process.
• Contact an experienced dog bite attorney. 

Recovering compensation after an injury from a dog bite

If you have been bitten by a dog and suffered injuries, contact a personal injury attorney to discuss your legal rights.

Dog bites can cause permanent injuries and be emotionally traumatizing for an individual.  At Berger and Green, our lawyers will take into account your present and future needs.  

A dog owner is responsible for their dog’s actions. If someone were to get hurt due to the negligence of the owner, the owner can be found responsible for the injuries that occurred.  Contact the personal injury lawyers at Berger and Green for a free no obligation consultation. Call 412-661-1400 today.