With millions of dogs reared at home as pets in the United States, it’s no surprise that over 800,000 people are treated for dog bite injuries every year. If other dog attack-related injuries are taken into account, the numbers rise steadily surpassing the 1 million mark. Dog bite injuries are predictable and preventable. Dog owners are required to ensure that their pets do not pose a threat to other people, and in case they do, these owners are liable to legal action.
Although there exist strict rules and regulations requiring dog owners to control and take care of their pets, dog bite injuries continue to occur. Apart from the medical bills that follow, victims of dog attacks suffer post-traumatic disorders, especially in young children. Anxiety and panic attacks may kick in, requiring regular therapy and medication. In the worst-case scenario, dog attacks may result in death. If you were injured in a similar attack, you should speak with a Galveston dog bite lawyer on the possibility of legal action against the dog owner. Call our firm today to connect with an experienced personal injury attorney to learn more.
Self-Representation in a Dog Bite Injury Case
Many people do not see the need for an attorney in a dog bite injury case. Very often, victims view self-representation as ideal since they get to save money that would have otherwise been used to pay lawyers and meet other legal requirements. While you may be determined to save some money to meet the needs that follow a dog attack, the truth is that hiring an attorney will do you more good than harm. Moreover, most personal injury attorneys including our Galveston dog bite injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. With this fee arrangement, you will only pay your lawyer if he or she secures compensation on your behalf.
For a free legal consultation with a dog bite lawyer serving Galveston, call (832) 449-8230
Liability in a Dog Bite Case
If you are a victim of a dog attack, one of the most important considerations you have to make is determining liability. Liability in personal injury law refers to determining the person or parties responsible for your injuries. In other words, the party that was negligent in their actions, causing you harm. By doing so, you get to establish the party or person who will cover your damages such as:
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost income
- Loss of quality of life
- Loss of income-earning ability
- Emotional trauma
- Post-Traumatic Disorders
- Wrongful death
Some of the parties likely to be held liable for a dog bite injury include:
- Dog owner
- Property/premises owners
- Animal control authorities
With everything changing amidst animal control rules and regulations, you should consult a seasoned Galveston dog attack attorney to help you establish fault.
Galveston Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me (832) 449-8230
What to Do After Being Injured in a Dog Bite Attack
While the aftermath of a dog bite injury may seem easy, there are a lot of steps you need to take to protect your legal rights. According to a qualified dog bite injury attorney in Galveston, these steps include:
Get the Contact Information of the Dog Owner
Even if you are uncertain about filing a case for compensation after a dog bite, you may change your mind after a day or two when you realize that you suffered severe harm. Note down the names and phone numbers of the pet owner.
Record Contact Information of Eyewitnesses
Eyewitnesses are very crucial in any civil litigation. You may need them to back your claims and version of how things went down. If you don’t know the owner of the dog, these witnesses may have a clue.
Get Medical Attention Immediately
No matter how minor your dog bite injury is, you should seek immediate medical attention. Dog bites are known to be dangerous, and seeking medical evaluation is important for your safety. While at it, ensure that you keep all medical records for future reference.
Contact Animal Control Authorities
Most states require that dog owners take care of their pets to prevent them from injuring other people. If you are attacked by a dog, you should report the incident to Galveston animal control authorities. This is often the case if you don’t know the owner of the dog, or if you want to find out whether the same dog has attacked someone before.
Click to contact our Personal Injury Lawyers in Galveston today
Talk to a Galveston Dog Bite Attorney
Besides offering you expert legal advice concerning your case, our Galveston dog bite lawyers will negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. The legal process in such cases is often difficult, and without an attorney, you may not get the compensation you are entitled to. Call Lone Star Injury Attorneys today to get started.
Call or text (832) 449-8230 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form