Personal Injury

DOG BITES

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of Rottweilers, Dobermans, Pit Bulls and other larger breed dogs as people increasingly turn to dogs as friends and use them to protect their homes. This has resulted in a widening problem of animal inflicted injury as these larger and aggressively trained dogs become increasingly in close contact with smaller children, who are their typical victims.

When a serious dog bite injury has occurred, there are a number of things that the injured party should consider doing immediately following the injury. Take photos of your injuries. Also, get permission to evaluate the dog before it is either euthanized or given away. Having it independently evaluated through specially designed tests as soon after the attack as possible to determine its behavior characteristics is very important for both the plaintiff and the defendant. If possible, secure photos or videos of the dog to demonstrate its size, weight and mannerisms. Talk to neighbors about the typical behavior of the dog and whether it was potentially dangerous - they may know if the dog gets out of the yard, if the owner allowed it to wander the streets, or if there were any prior attacks. Interview its veterinarian and review the medical records as to any prior aggressive or fearful behavior. Check with animal control as to whether or not the dog was a problem in the neighborhood or was ever picked up by them. Investigate the scene of the attack to see if corresponds with details relayed by all of the parties. Determine if the owner was negligent or if he or she had been a responsible owner. Check whether the dog was licensed, had all of its shots, wore a collar, was trained, and whether the owner used abusive force with the dog.

It is very important to hire an attorney as soon as possible after a dog bite injury. In deciding which attorney to hire, it is most important to use an attorney familiar with animal inflicted injury cases. An experienced attorney can make sure there are no missed opportunities and help built a solid foundation of testimony by documenting the aggressive behavior and assuring that all relevant information is available at the time of trial.

If you would like to talk with an experienced and caring attorney about a dog bite injury, please give us a call.

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