Being attacked by a dog can be terrifying. Such an attack can leave the victim severely injured and traumatized. The injuries can be fatal, particularly if the victim is a child or elderly. If you’ve suffered severe injuries from a dog bite, you may be entitled to compensation from the owner, whether or not the owner had any reason to believe the dog was dangerous. A personal injury claim allows you to receive damages either by out-of-court settlement or court judgement, including, but not limited to, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and punitive damages. Dog bite personal injury claims should be taken very seriously.
Limiting Liability for Dog Owners
As an owner, steps can be taken to minimize the possibility of your dog biting someone:
- Spay or neuter your dog.
- Do not teach your dog to play roughly.
- Be sure your dog has up-to-date vaccinations.
- Take your dog to obedience classes so it becomes accustomed to obeying voice commands.
- Never leave babies or small children with a dog unless an adult is present.
- Keep your dog in a fenced-in yard; do not allow it to roam.
Protecting Yourself from Dog Bites
Basic safety tips include:
- Leaving strange dogs alone.
- Never approaching any dog while it is eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.
- Never trying to pet a dog until you have let it see you and smell you.
- Never leaving children alone with any dog.
- Never being aggressive with a dog, staring it in the eye, or running from it.
- If a dog does attack, stay still and calm.
- If a dog knocks you down, roll into a ball to protect yourself.
If you are attacked, seek medical aid quickly. Try to find out who the owner is, but medical help is the first priority. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite, contact a dog bite lawyer at the Spevack Law Firm at 732 636 3030 or submit an inquiry online for free case evaluation.
The initial consultation is FREE of charge. We work on a contingency fee basis. Meaning, if we agree to handle your case, there are no legal fees unless we are successful in getting you money. Lawsuits need be filed before an impending expiration date, known as the Statute of Limitations. Therefore, call or contact us right away to ensure that you do not waive your rights to money damages or other benefits.
