Dog bites happen. In most cases involving adult or child dog bite victims, the dog is familiar to the person that was injured. For the victim or the victim’s family, this can pose a challenge. They want to seek compensation for their injuries and medical bills but feel uncomfortable suing someone they know. In a majority of cases, the dog owner’s insurance will be responsible for compensation and speaking with a dog attack lawyer can help you to establish a path forward.
Most Dog Bite Victims Know the Dog
Children are most vulnerable to dog attack injuries and most victims know the dog that attacks them with 2/3rds of bites occurring on or near the victim’s property by dogs they are familiar with. According to the Pediatric Journal, 53% of child dog bite victims were attacked by a family dog or a dog owned by an extended family member. One of the conclusions drawn in this study was that a familiar dog may provide a false sense of security. Something for parents to be aware of.
Dogs may also attack their owners and it isn’t always known why. Responsible dog owners should train and socialize their dogs and watch for signs of aggression or behavior that is out of character for the dog. Dogs may attack when they feel ill or if they are guarding a resource. Dog owners should pay attention and take steps to separate the dog if it is showing signs of stress.
Who Pays for Compensation?
In dog bite cases, the dog owner’s homeowners or renters insurance in the United States will be responsible for making restitution. This means that in a majority of cases, the dog owner or family will not be out of pocket for the expenses of a dog bite claim. For dog bite victims, this is often good news as they understand that recovery of damages for the dog attack they suffered will not necessarily be a financial burden for the dog owner.
All dog bite victims deserve compensation for the injuries they suffer. Receiving compensation for medical expenses from the dog bite injury is the right of the victim of a negligent crime. Dog bite laws in Pennsylvania support the dog bite victim. Victims of dog attacks should not have additional concessions they need to make for the dog or the dog’s owner.
Handling the Dog Owner You Know
After any dog attack, whether you know the dog owner or not, gather as much information as you can about the dog and the owner. Find out the breed of dog, if they are up-to-date with their vaccinations, and any details of the attack.
It is best not to speak to any representatives of the insurance company without your own lawyer present. It is also a good idea to refrain from speaking with the dog owner about the attack.
A dog attack lawyer will be able to discuss your dog bite claim with you and guide you on the best next steps. Every dog bite claim is different, although the steps are the same, and it might be more comfortable to have your dog bite attorney take the lead in any conversations with the dog owner.
Speak to a Dog Attack Lawyer about Your Dog Bite Claim
A dog attack lawyer advocating on your behalf can provide some necessary distance. Discuss how you know the dog owner with your dog bite lawyer. This awareness will help your dog bite lawyer while building the case and will provide a more complete understanding of the situation.
Dog Bite Lawyer Jeffrey H. Penneys Can Help
Dog Bite Lawyer Jeffrey Harlan Penneys has worked on dog bite claims where the victim knew the owner of the dog. He is understanding and compassionate in his approach to dealing with the parties involved but is not afraid to take on insurance companies and their tough approach.
For a free case evaluation of your dog bite claim, contact Jeffrey H. Penneys at 215-771-0430 to discuss your injury claim and a dog bite lawsuit. He is available 24/7 for a free consultation on your dog bite case.
