Rs Law Offices/Our blog/Dog Bites: Your Dog and Compensation Law

Dog Bites: Your Dog and Compensation Law

22/02/2021

Many people who experience severe injuries from dog bites usually wonder whether it is worth the hustle to pursue legal redress. Most fear they are a small minority and decide to suffer in silence.

However, the truth is that dog bites are shockingly common and are among the most frequent types of personal injury lawsuits. 

To assist you to understand when you need to consult a dog bite injury lawyer, we have gathered a comprehensive insight into what you should be on the lookout and when it is necessary to engage a lawyer. 

  1. Prevalence of Dog Bites

It is estimated that roughly 5 million people report being bitten, and over 1 billion U.S. dollars are paid in compensation according to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention. 

In the United States, dogs are the most popular pet among most Americans, with over 35 percent of households preferring the canine. That translates to about 70 million dogs all over the country.

It is no wonder dog bites are so common. Due to the proximity we have with the domesticated animal and their territorial nature, more than 75 percent of dog bites are caused by canines belonging to family or friends. 

Reacting to dog bite complaints, county governments and city councils are passing more and more bylaws to regulate dog ownership. 

  1. Dog Bites Compensation

Although dogs are considered man’s best friend – loyal, protective, and always ready to heed your command, a quick snap of their jaw can quickly make them your wallet’s worst enemy. 

In 2019, the average cost of a dog bite claim was approximately 45,000 U.S. dollars, according to the Insurance Information Institute. 

  1. What Can You Claim After a Dog Bite Injury?

Generally, your dog bite compensation should cover all your psychological and physical injury and losses. Some of the compensations you can claim include:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of income
  • Medical and rehabilitation expenses
  • Property damage

  1. How Does a Dog Bite Get Calculated?

While no two dog attacks or bites can claim to be the same, dog bites are usually calculated by placing an economic value on the gap between your assumed life status before the dog attack, and your current life status after the dog attack. 

Usually, higher compensation awards are given when the dog attack has done the following:

  • When the dog attack has left a permanent scar or disfigurement. Such cases can attract up to 100,000 U.S. dollars in compensation
  • The need for specialized treatment or extended medical care
  • Result in disability
  • Results in the need for psychological or mental therapy

  1. Avoiding Such Lawsuits

If you are a dog owner, there are things you might want to put in place to avoid the risk of being sued. Some of the tips include:

  • Enrol your pet in an obedience class
  • Socialize your dog
  • Ensure you have a fence if you keep your dog in the backyard. Chains sometimes tend to break easily

Remember to take extra caution if you live in an area with a high population of children. Almost half the number of Americans who seek medical attention from dog attacks happen to be children. 

In the unfortunate event, you or a close family friend experiences a dog bite, our team of able lawyers are readily available to assist you in claiming compensation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

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