It is common to see a dog on the street and ask to pet it. Many people love dogs and often interact with dogs they see on the street, in parks, etc. But, if a dog is not properly trained, serious injuries can occur. Many dogs are stronger than we may realize and can cause major damage. If you were injured by a dog bite in Washington D.C., you may be entitled to recover compensation. Read on to learn more.
Is the dog owner responsible for a dog bite?
If you have been injured by a dog, you may be entitled to recover compensation. If you are attacked by a dog while the dog is not on a leash, or off its property, you will likely be able to hold the dog owner responsible without proving that the dog has a history of violence. On the other hand, if the dog was on a leash, or on its property, you will have to prove that the accident was a result of the owner’s negligence. In this case, you will likely have to prove that the dog has a history of violence. In order to obtain this proof, you should work with an experienced personal injury attorney.
It is important to know that if you were injured by a dog while trespassing or committing another crime, you will not be able to recover compensation. Additionally, if the owner can prove that the accident occurred because you were taunting the dog, or ignoring warnings to stay away from the dog, you will likely be unable to recover compensation.
How long do I have to take legal action?
If you were bitten by a dog, you may face physical, emotional, and financial burdens. If this occurs, you may be eligible to recover compensation to help ease these burdens. But, in order to recover the compensation you deserve, you will have to file your claim in time. This deadline is known as a statute of limitations. In Washington D.C., the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means that if you fail to file within three years, you will lose your opportunity to take legal action. Be sure to reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED WASHINGTON D.C. FIRM
The experienced personal injury and medical malpractice attorneys at Trombly & Singer, PLLC are prepared to represent clients facing legal matters after being injured due to another person’s negligence. If you require strong legal representation in Washington D.C. or Maryland, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.
