Such incidents can lead to serious physical and emotional harm. If you or someone close to you has been bitten by a dog, the following steps become very important. Having an effective Garden City dog bite lawyer to present the facts of your case to ensure you receive the fair compensation you are entitled to is crucial.
Understand Dog Bite Laws
New York State has laws concerning dog bites. Generally, there is strict liability levied against the dog owner for the actions of their pets, even in cases where the dog has never been aggressive before. Due to this law, the victim does not have to prove the owner was negligent.
Though exceptions can be made as this is a general rule. For example, in case the victim teased the dog or was trespassing on the property of the owner, the liability of the owner may be fully or partly extinguished. This may also be the reason as to why you need an experienced lawyer who is going to look at your case based on its individual facts.
Importance of Legal Representation
The victims of dog bites often must go through a complex legal procedure. Having to deal with the insurance companies, medical providers, and even probably the owner of the dog in most cases can be overwhelming. A Garden City dog bite lawyer will thus take care of such matters for you, hence not diverting your attention from recovery.
An experienced lawyer will investigate the incident, secure your evidence, and identify all parties that may be liable for your injuries. Then, negotiation with insurance companies will ensure you obtain a fair settlement, or they will prepare your case for trial.
Compensation Eligibility
How much one can recover from a dog bite injury case depends on several factors, which may include the seriousness of the injury, medical bills, lost wages or income, pain and suffering, and other damages. A skilled lawyer will work hard to ensure you get maximum recovery.
Some of the Recoveries may include:
- Medical Expenses: All the treatment expenses, medicine costs, surgery, or any other treatment.
- Loss of income: The amount lost from not working while recovering from the injuries
- Pain and suffering: Amount to be awarded by the court regarding mental and physical suffering.
- Disfigurement: Permanent scars and marks and their effects on the victims.
- Loss of consortium: Loss of consortium is an amount usually awarded in the death of a loved one, because of the loss of services or companionship.
Building a Solid Case
To build a successful case regarding a dog bite, your lawyer will collect evidence to include:
- Medical records documenting injuries and treatment.
- Photographs of the bite wounds and other injuries.
- Witness statements of persons who have witnessed the attack.
- Information about the history of the dog regarding previous incidents.
Your lawyer will also research the financial recovery potential of the insurance coverage carried by the dog owner.
Choosing the Right Lawyer
Thus, the right choice in a Garden City dog bite lawyer is paramount. Make certain that he or she has experience in handling a case that involves a dog attack and a very strong win record as well, together with a compassionate approach towards his clients.
Bite victims can be permanently scarred by dog bites, both physically and psychologically. If you have been attacked by a dog, you may want to seek legal advice. A competent Garden City dog bite lawyer will help you in the legal process, preserve your rights, and ensure that you get proper compensation.
If you want to have a free consultation with a Garden City Lawyer then call now at (718) 414-6642.