Dog Bites & Other Animal Attacks Attorney
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dangerous dog or animal, you may be facing emotional distress and medical expenses from the attack. There’s a good chance the dog owner will be liable for any harm their dog caused. A human dog bite victim may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, hospital bills, treatment and surgery. A dog bite lawyer or animal attack lawyer can help you determine who is legally obligated to pay these expenses.
A dog bite claim falls under the umbrella of personal injury law. Injuries from a dog bite attack can include more than broken bones and puncture wounds. Our personal injury lawyer can help you file a personal injury claim for your animal or dog attack injuries. We can negotiate with the pet owner’s insurance or litigation.
Dog Bite Strict Liability for Economic Damages
36 states have strict liability laws for dog bites. Oregon dog bite statute holds dog owners liable for the payment of economic damages. The typical strict liability dog bite statute states that a dog owner is liable if their dog bites someone, regardless of whether or not the dog had a vicious propensity or whether the owner did anything wrong. This means that the dog owner cannot use the defense that the owner could not foresee the dog would cause an injury. Economic damages include:
- Medical bills
- Loss of income
- Reasonable and necessary expenses
However, they may be able to argue that the dog was provoked. It’s best to consult with a personal injury attorney to determine the best strategy for your personal injury / dog bite case. You will need a dog bite lawyer if your bodily injury is serious.
What to do After a Dog Bite Injury
- Get the name and contact information of witnesses and the dog’s owner
- Obtain rabies vaccination records and homeowners or renters insurance information
- Take pictures of your physical injury and the area it occurred
- Seek medical treatment
- Report the attack
- Get help from an experienced dog bite attorney
Free Dog Bite / Animal Attack Case Consultation
The Steele Law Firm can help you determine the best course of legal action. Call our experienced attorney today for a consultation on your personal injury case.
Read more about Oregon’s Dog Bite Law.