Dog bites can be very frightening and painful. Many animal attacks result from serious injuries. This includes permanent disabilities, scarring, disfigurement, or permanent disability, as well as long-term and lifelong psychological injury. These injuries, along with the risk of dying, are often magnified when a victim is a child. Contrary to auto accidents, slip-and-fall, and defective product injuries, however, dog bites can be very complicated and confusing. It is difficult for non-lawyers, therefore, to receive compensation for the injuries. Denver dog bite attorney is available to help you find a lawyer that is knowledgeable about the law and how to prepare and present persuasive cases to win you the compensation you deserve.
Dog Bite Laws – State to State
Some states have adopted a basic negligence standard. This means that dog owners can be held liable if their dog bites another person. Others have adopted a strict responsibility standard. Dog owners are liable if their pet bites someone, regardless of negligence. Another popular approach is to hold owners accountable if their animal shows a vicious, dangerous propensity to bite and attack. This is often known as the “one bite rule” since owners aren’t liable for an animal that attacks someone, but they are responsible for any attacks thereafter.
However, there are many states that combine elements of all three theories of liability. New York, for example, has animal owners that are strictly liable if their animal assaults a person. Denver law holds dog owners responsible for injuries sustained by their animals if they attack someone on public or private property. Denver has two options for dog owners. They can be held liable if their dog was injured by careless management, allowed to roam free if the animal was dangerous or vicious, or if they violated an ordinance that requires the animal to be kept on a leash or at heel.
The Right Animal Attack Attorney Can Help
Dog bites can cause severe injuries, such as facial lacerations or puncture wounds and compound fractures. Victims often suffer permanent physical disabilities from vicious animal attacks, including depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and a lifelong fear or anxiety of dogs or open spaces. It is also possible to die from an attack on an animal, especially if it is a small child.
An injury victim will not need to prove the full extent of their damages. Pet owners have several defenses against liability. These include claiming that the victim provoked or otherwise assumed the risk or caused, or contributed to, the incident. Dog bite victims may hesitate to bring legal action against their owners. This could be because they do not know the law, are friends with the owner, or are family members. Often, however, insurance will cover the costs of all or part of the treatment required and any other financial injuries resulting from the attack. This is exactly the purpose of insurance.
Dog bites, animal attacks, and even dog attacks result in over 1000 emergency room visits daily. Each year, dozens are killed by dog bites. In addition to securing compensation for yourself and your family members, you can also take action against the owners of dangerous animals. You make the community safer by stopping others from being attacked.