Being the victim of a dog bite can be a scary experience. An attack can leave behind significant injuries and could even psychologically scar a victim, especially a child. Some people wonder if it’s possible to hold the owner of the animal accountable in cases like these. It’s often possible to do so, and our Washington D.C. injury attorneys would be happy to learn more about your case so that we can help you pursue compensation.
Can a Dog Bite Cause Serious Injuries?
A dog bite can cause serious injuries, especially when a child is the victim. Attacks can cause:
- Fractured and broken bones
- Nerve damage
- Injury to sensitive body parts, like eyes
- PTSD and other psychological trauma
- Deep cuts
- Permanent scars
What Should I Do After a Dog Bite or Attack?
After a dog bite, you should get medical care as soon as possible. These medical records can help you make your case later. Take pictures of your injuries as well. It’s also important to get contact information from the dog owner. If there is anything else that can support your case, like an obviously broken fence, take pictures of it.
Can I Sue For Damages Over a Dog Bite?
Yes, you can sue for damages if you believe that the dog owner was negligent and that this is why the attack occurred. Good examples of this would be an owner who lets their dog off-leash in public or someone who puts their dog in the yard knowing that their fence is busted. They are not taking precautions to protect others from their pet, and that’s a big problem.
You should be aware of the “one bite” rule though. If this is the first time the dog has attacked someone, the owner may be able to argue that they did not know that their dog was a danger to others. However, this rule only applies when the dog is under the owner’s control, like if they are on a leash. If the dog is “at large” and running around free, the owner can be held accountable for damage caused even if they had no idea about their pet’s aggressive tendencies.
How Long Do I Have to Sue For Damages?
You do have a limited amount of time to sue over a dog bite. Washington, D.C. gives you three years, which seems quite generous. However, time can pass by quickly and you do not want to end up in a situation where you can no longer sue for damages.
We recommend acting quickly and letting our lawyers handle the paperwork. We’ll file your case before the statute of limitations expires while you focus on recovering. We’ll help you fight for compensation that can make up for your medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyers
When you are ready to pursue compensation, contact Trombly & Singer, PLLC. We can schedule a consultation and tell you more about your legal options. Talk to our seasoned injury attorneys today.
