4 Things to Consider Before Filing a Dog Bite Claim | Birmingham, AL

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4 Things to Consider Before Filing a Dog Bite Claim

What Do I Need to Consider Before Filing a Dog Bite Claim?

Have you or a loved one suffered from a dog bite? Being bitten by someone else’s dog is not only frightening, but it can also induce serious medical complications and lead to a pile of medical bills.

As the victim of a dog bite, you should not have to pay for these medical expenses out of your own pocket.  Consider filing a personal injury claim to receive the compensation you deserve. Below, dog bite lawyer Mark Petro shares 4 things to consider before filing a dog bite claim.

  1. What is your state’s dog bite law? 

Each state has specific personal injury laws for dog bitesAlabama and 35 other states have strict liability laws for dog bites. Strict liability varies by state, but generally, it means that the dog owner is held liable if his/her dog bites someone regardless of whether or not they were negligent as long as the injured person was not trespassing (or breaking any law at the time of the incident) and did not provoke the dog.

  1. Are you injured? 

If you are seriously injured, get in the ambulance! Whether or not you think you are injured, it’s always a good idea to be examined by a doctor after a dog bite. Any bite or scratch from an animal should be checked by a physician! The doctor can identify unrecognized injuries, treat your wounds properly, and help prevent future complications. Plus, your medical records will serve as important evidence in your dog bite claim.

  1. Can you prove liability?

Following a dog bite, it’s important to follow certain steps to ensure your safety and strengthen your personal injury claim against the dog owner. In addition to going to the doctor as mentioned above, take photographs of the scene, gather as much information as you can about the dog and dog owner, collect contact information from witnesses and report the bite to the police. In a dog bite claim, collecting information about the dog and owner is extremely important since the dog’s past tendencies will impact the owner’s liability.

  1. Does the dog owner have insurance?

Lastly, it’s important to determine if the dog owner has insurance. In many cases, the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy will cover these claims. However, a skilled personal injury attorney can explore all options for recovery in order to maximize the amount of compensation you receive.

In Alabama, the statute of limitations on dog bites is two years from the date of the attack, so it’s important to act quickly to file a dog bite claim. Mark Petro of Petro Accident & Injury Attorneys has the experience to ensure fair treatment and receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Contact Petro Accident & Injury Attorneys to File a Dog Bite Claim Today

Petro Accident & Injury Attorneys can help you file a personal injury claim against the dog owner in order to recover the financial compensation you deserve for your trauma and injuries. Call Mark today for a free consultation!

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