A dog bite can be a painful and traumatic experience. According to the CDC, approximately 4.7 million cases of dog bites annually in the United States alone. However, if a dog has bitten you, know you are eligible to seek compensation. Schedule a consultation with an Atlanta dog bite lawyer to know more.
What should you do after a dog bite?
After a dog bite, it is important to move quickly. Some of the things you should do as soon as a dog bites you are:
- Reach out to Animal Control
- Inform the local law enforcement
- Get treated medically
- Get information about the dog owner
- Gather evidence
- Talk to witnesses
- Contact a dog bite lawyer
What can influence your dog bite claim?
No two dog bite cases are the same. Each case is unique, and the laws for dog bite cases differ from state to state. However, there are some common factors that can influence how long your claim may take. These are:
- The severity of your injuries
How severe your injuries are can directly affect how long it takes for your claim to settle. If your injuries are severe, that means your medical bills are also high. Your attorney will try to make sure that you are properly compensated for your injuries, which will take time.
- Medical treatments
The medical treatments that were required to treat the injuries also play a role in how long your claim takes to settle.
- Time taken for recovery.
The time it takes to recover also directly impacts your medical bills. Suppose it takes you a long time to recover. In that case, your claim may also last longer, as it is important to figure out the exact medical expenses so that your compensation can be accurately calculated.
- Insurance company
Insurance companies have different policies, and how long your claim may take to settle also depends on your insurance providers.
What type of damages can I claim?
If a dog has bitten you, there are two types of damages you can claim:
- Economic damages
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- Lost wages
- Medical expenditures
- Reduced capacity to earn
- Non-economic damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional anguish
- Reduced quality of life
Has a dog attacked you?
If a dog has bitten you, you are eligible for compensation. Reach out to an experienced dog bite lawyer to protect your rights and get the legal help you deserve.
