While many people could encounter a dog bite at one point or another throughout the year, few will receive financial compensation for their injury. Since nearly all dog bites go unreported, possible because victims do not realize they may be able to recover damages for their condition, most victims will not receive money for medical expenses, treatments or other costs associated with the injury. Some estimate that insurance companies provide compensation for only 15,000 dog bites each year out of an estimated 4.7 million incidents that may occur.
Just because a dog has not exhibited any signs of anger or aggression in the past, it does not mean that it could not happen. Environmental factors, often even including children, can provoke or threaten a dog and may increase the likelihood that the animal will bite out of sheer self-defense. If you have been injured, it is important to immediately document the incident by obtaining the dog owner’s contact information, specific information about the animal and the time, date, location at which the injury occurred. You may wish to file a report with your local animal control department and determine if the dog has been vaccinated on schedule.
Statistics show that the average dog bite will cost a victim $18,000 in medical treatments, even more if the individual needs longer hospitalization or treatment in an emergency room. In some instances, a victim may suffer from long-term consequences, particularly if the dog bite pierces the skin and the wound becomes infected. A California dog bite attorney can help to ensure that you receive the compensation to which you may be entitled.
Having a California dog bite attorney in your corner can help you to navigate the legal process and negotiate with the insurance provider to help to improve your chance of recovering damages for your medical expenses, treatments and even a loss in income if you are unable to work. It is known throughout the legal field that many insurance providers may attempt to offer you a quick settlement but keep in mind that you may require years of treatments or incur a loss in income if the dog bite is severe.
Contact a California Dog Bite Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite, seek medical attention right away. Once you are stable and you are recovering from your injury, you may consider seeking legal counsel from a California dog bite attorney to learn more about your rights. Attorney Group for California can answer your questions and connect you with an affiliated California dog bite attorney who can pursue a claim and help you to seek the compensation to which you may be entitled.
