Millions of people are attacked by dogs and other domestic animals each year in the United States. Often, these incidents are incredibly serious. They can result in life-altering personal injuries and emotional distress.
Many animal attacks are preventable and are caused by the owner’s negligence. In these situations, victims have some recourse in the form of a personal injury lawsuit. It is important to work with a skilled lawyer who can help you recover the full compensation you deserve.
Common Dog Bite and Animal Attack Injuries
Dog bites and other animal attacks typically cause severe injuries. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, over 800,000 people seek medical care each year for dog bites.
Some of the most common animal attack injuries include:
- Puncture wounds
- Infections from wounds
- Contusions and abrasions
- Lacerations
- Bone fractures
- Joint dislocations
The consequences of an animal attack are not just physical. In many cases, victims of these events also suffer emotional trauma, which may manifest as a lasting fear of certain animals, anxiety, and fear of leaving the house. Children are particularly vulnerable to psychological stress after experiencing a dog bite or other attack.
What to Do After a Dog Bite or Animal Attack
The exact steps you should take after an animal attack will depend on the severity of your injuries and other factors. However, there are a few things to keep in mind in these situations.
Your health, or the health of your injured child, is the priority. Since animal attacks are known to cause serious injuries and even death, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Keep records of your medical treatment, including the doctor’s diagnosis, x-rays, or photographs, to help your case.
You should also attempt to gather relevant evidence before you leave the scene of the attack. Try to obtain contact information from the animal’s owner or any witnesses. If this is not possible, ask someone to collect names and phone numbers on your behalf.
Finally, you should contact a dog bite and animal attack injury lawyer for a case evaluation. They will be able to determine if you are eligible for compensation for your injuries. If you have a valid claim, the lawyer will help build your case. This process includes investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack and calculating your expenses.
Compensation for Dog Bites and Animal Attacks
As the victim of an animal attack, you may be entitled to recover financial compensation. Only a skilled attorney can assess the full measure of your damages and ensure that you receive a sum of money equal to your suffering.
You may be awarded compensatory damages for economic and non-economic losses, including:
- Past and future medical costs
- Transportation expenses related to medical care
- Lost wages
- Diminished earning capacity
- Plastic surgery and cosmetic scar revision
- Lowered quality of life
- Pain and suffering
Liability for domestic animals varies by state. A lawyer will know which parties can be held accountable for your dog bite or animal attack. The owner of the animal or the owner’s insurance company may have to pay damages.
