Not all pet owners are as responsible as they should be, and unfortunate accidents can sometimes ensue. Hundreds of thousands of dog bite cases are treated in hospitals all over the country each year. Many of these cases can be attributed to recklessness on the part of the person responsible for the dog. Depending on the circumstances of the situation, dog bites can cause severe injuries and even death, and aren’t to be taken lightly. If you were an unfortunate bystander and were attacked by an unsupervised dog, legal compensation can help you pay for any medical bills and lost wages your injury incurred.
The Party at Fault
It’s a given in most cases that the owner of a dog is responsible for the damages their pet inflicts. Nevertheless, it’s not always that simple. Parents, landlords, property owners, and shelters or pounds can be at fault as well. A 15 year old may take care of and consider their dog their own, but when all is said and done, the parents are responsible for the actions of the child’s dog. Landlords and property owners who are aware that a vicious dog resides on their property could be held liable for any attacks and injuries the dog causes. The blame can be placed with a shelter or pound if a vicious dog somehow frees itself. Dog bites fall under personal injury, and a personal injury lawyer can help you determine who’s at fault and what actions you should take.
Monetary Compensation
Dog bite laws vary from state to state. A personal injury lawyer Auburn CA professional will help you organize your case based on California state laws. The circumstances of the case can influence how much the guilty party will be required to pay. Compensation in dog bite cases is issued to cover the cost of medical expenses, wages you may have lost, your pain and suffering, and any property damage. Punitive damages may also be issued if the actions of the liable party are believed to be especially reckless. For example, if a landlord was informed that a dog on their property was attacking the dogs belonging to other tenants, and did nothing to resolve the problem, they may be forced to pay punitive damages.
