Although dogs are considered to be man's best friend, they can leave you with some pretty nasty injuries. These animals are trained to protect their owners and will do so viciously if they feel threatened. If a dog has attacked you, you should contact a dog bite lawyer. While it may seem that the owner shouldn't be held responsible for your injuries, this may not always be the case. They may have been negligent in their care of the animal, leading to the attack. Here are three reasons why you need legal representation after these incidents.
Negotiating with Insurers
Negotiations may be challenging to handle because they require diligence and tenacity to get right. This situation may even be worse when you're dealing with insurers. These companies have teams of legal representatives and adjusters whose job is to help them save money. They may lowball you, hoping that you'll take the first offer. Also, they may ask you to record a statement and use it against you later. This is why you should have a lawyer on your side. They have the skills and experience to handle these negotiations and protect your interests. They'll also make sure that you get a favorable settlement for your case.
Filing a Lawsuit
If you can't reach a fair agreement with the owner of the dog or their insurer, you may need to file a lawsuit against them. This process isn't easy and requires you to fill out tons of legal paperwork. If you decide to handle it yourself, you may make a mistake that could cost you the case.
Dog bite lawyers know how to file dog bite claims and can represent you in court. They'll handle the paperwork, ensure it's filled out correctly, and submit it before the deadline. They'll also be by your side during hearings and mediation. This will give you peace of mind and increase your chances of winning your case.
Proving Your Claim
To win a dog bite case, you'll need to prove that the defendant's animal bit and wounded you. You'll also need to show that you weren't trespassing or otherwise provoking the dog when the attack occurred. If you live in a state with strict liability laws for these animals, the owner will be held responsible for any damages resulting from this incident, whether they knew it was dangerous or not. A lawyer will collect a few key pieces of evidence to prove your case. These include medical records detailing your injuries, witness statements, and any photos or videos of the attack.
Dog bites can be extremely serious, and it's important to have an experienced dog bite lawyer on your side to ensure you are fairly compensated for your losses. These legal professionals will create a solid case on your behalf and make sure you get justice for your misfortunes.
To continue reading more, contact a dog bite lawyer near you.
