Injury Attorney in Costa Mesa Helping Dog Bite Victims Get the Help They Need
A dog bite can be a scary thing to experience. Long term or even permanent injuries such as scarring, muscle tears, or nerve damage can result from a dog bite. A dog bite is especially traumatic if the bite comes from someone else’s dog, rather than from your own. Even if the dog isn’t to blame, the dog’s owner may be responsible.
Victims of dog bites that have resulted in injury should reach out to a lawyer right away in order to pursue a legal claim against those responsible. If the bite has caused you pain and suffering or hindered your ability to live and work normally, you’re likely owed compensation. Reach out to our experienced Costa Mesa law firm for legal advice and to make sure you receive what you deserve.
What Do I Do if a Dog Bites Me?
The first thing you should do if you’re bit by a dog is to get to a safe place and seek medical attention. You’ll want to have the wound cleaned and disinfected before stitches (if necessary) are applied, as dog bites can easily lead to infection. You’ll also want to take a photo of your injury. Once you’re safe and receiving medical attention, make sure you identify the dog’s owner as soon as possible. If the dog doesn’t belong to someone you know, you may want to take a photo of the dog as well. Dog bite injuries in most states are paid by the dog owner or their insurance company. Therefore, it’s imperative you identify the owner as the claim will be filed against them.
The next thing you’ll want to do is file a report with your local police department or animal control agency. At this stage, getting in touch with a personal injury attorney is crucial. A lawyer can make sure the right steps are taken in a timely manner to get you compensated.
What Damages Can Be Recovered After a Dog Bite Injury?
A lot of factors go into how much compensation you’re owed following a dog bite injury. If you’re injured in a dog attack that occurred because of the owner’s recklessness, you might get damages for medical bills you accrued, wages you lost due to the injury or recovery, damages for pain and suffering, and more.
Money can’t make up for what you’re going through following a dog bite, but filing a claim can at least ensure you’re taken care of. An experienced Costa Mesa injury attorney can analyze your claim and let you know what kind of compensation you might be able to expect.
Can Workers Claim Workers Comp Following a Dog Bite Injury?
There are many jobs that require employees to enter the homes or step onto private parties as part of the job description. Delivery persons, mail carriers, and other positions that require you on another person’s property. A worker who enters a property legally and is bit by a dog on site can usually submit a claim for workers compensation benefits. Most workers’ comp plans include medical and wage replacement benefits. The same worker may also file a claim against the owner of the dog that caused the injury. Consult with an injury attorney who can help navigate the complex world of workers’ comp today.
Do I Really Need an Injury Lawyer?
The severity of a dog bite injury might not really show itself for days, weeks, or even months. A personal injury attorney can give you legal advice quickly and confidently. We have years of experience handling dog bite cases, and understand just how scary they can be and the loss you’re experiencing. Having done this time and again, we’ll navigate the complicated legal road, handle the insurance companies, the dog owners, and even speak on your behalf in court if it comes to that. Reach out to The Accident Network Law Group at (714) 844-1010 and let us help you get the support you need.