Dog bite injury claims are one of the most common types of personal injury claims filed in the United States. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions surrounding dog bite claims that can make the process of filing a claim harder for victims. In this article, we will explore some of the most common myths about dog bite injury claims.
Table of Contents
Myth 1: The Dog Owner Is Always Liable
While it’s true that dog owners are usually responsible for their dogs’ behavior, there are some cases in which they are not liable for injuries caused by their pets. For example, if the victim was trespassing on the owner’s property at the time of the bite, the owner may not be held liable for the injuries. Additionally, if the victim provoked the dog or was engaging in behavior that could be construed as threatening towards the dog, the owner may not be held liable.
Myth 2: Dog Bite Claims Are Too Complicated To Pursue
Dog bite injury claims are not inherently more complicated than other types of personal injury claims. However, they can become more complex if the victim does not have adequate documentation of their injuries and the circumstances surrounding the incident. In order to make the process smoother, it’s important to take photos of the bite mark, seek medical attention immediately, and gather any witness statements available.
Myth 3: Only Certain Breeds Of Dogs Are Dangerous
While some breeds, such as pit bulls, are often associated with being more dangerous than others, any dog can bite if provoked or threatened. Dogs with a history of aggression or bites are obviously more of a risk, but breed alone should not be used as a determining factor in assessing a dog’s potential for aggression.
Myth 4: Dog Bite Claims Are Expensive To Pursue
In most cases, dog bite injury claims are handled on a contingency fee basis, which means that the victim does not have to pay any upfront costs to their attorney. Instead, the attorney takes a percentage of the settlement or damages awarded at the end of the case. This means that the victim doesn’t have to pay any legal fees out of pocket.
Myth 5: The Victim Must Prove That The Owner Was Negligent
In some states, a dog owner may be held strictly liable for any injuries caused by their pet, regardless of whether or not they were negligent in controlling the dog. This means that the victim doesn’t have to prove that the owner was negligent in order to receive compensation for their injuries. However, in other states, the victim must be able to prove that the owner was negligent in order to recover damages.
Myth 6: Dog Bite Cases Always Go To Court
The vast majority of dog bite injury claims are settled out of court, with the parties coming to an agreement on a settlement amount. Going to trial is usually a last resort and only happens if the parties cannot come to an agreement through negotiation or mediation.
Conclusion
Dog bite injury claims can be complicated, especially if the victim doesn’t have the right information. By dispelling these common myths about these types of cases, victims can be better prepared to pursue a claim and get the compensation they deserve. Remember to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to help guide you through the process.