If you were bitten by a dog, you may have to sue the dog owner to obtain compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional trauma caused by the attack. Many of these cases are settled before they go to trial. A number of factors could affect the amount of compensation you receive.
Factors That May Help Determine the Amount of Your Damages in Your Dog Bite Case
Every dog bite case is different, and injured victims can suffer a wide range of injuries and emotional trauma. However, a number of factors could affect the amount of compensation offered, including:
What you can win at trial. What you believe you would be awarded by a jury will influence the amount offered in settlement and what you would be willing to accept.
Establishing liability. If the dog bite owner believes he could win at trial, he would be less likely to settle for a larger sum of money. However, if you can establish the owner’s liability, he may be more willing to offer a higher settlement amount.
Extent of your injuries. If your injuries were serious or resulted in disfigurement and scarring, your award could be higher. Expensive medical treatment, ongoing treatments, and the need for future treatments can all help establish the severity of your injuries.
Lost wages. If you can show that your injuries caused you to not be able to work—especially for a prolonged period of time—it could increase the amount of your overall compensation.
The age and sex of the victim. If your child was bitten, he may suffer more long-term trauma from the dog attack than an adult would. His award could be higher—especially if he suffered serious injuries or permanent scarring. In addition, if you are a woman who suffered permanent scarring or disfigurement, your award may be more than a male’s award.
Your particular circumstances. If you suffered a serious injury that caused long-term limitations in your daily activities—such as your ability to perform your job or to engage in a hobby you enjoyed—you may be able to obtain a higher settlement.
Your attorney’s track record. If your attorney is known for accepting lower settlements, the dog bite owner will be more likely to offer a lesser settlement. You need to hire an experienced dog bite attorney who is willing to fight to obtain the best settlement for you.
If you or a family member were bitten by a dog, we may be able to help you get the settlement you could be entitled to. Fill out our online form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
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