The Consequences Of Animal Negligence In Fatal Bite Cases!
Animal negligence can result in devastating consequences, including injuries and emotional trauma affecting the victim physically, mentally, and financially. While most pet owners take the necessary precautions to prevent their animals from harming others, some may neglect their duties as responsible pet owners, leading to severe and even deadly consequences.
This article will explore dog bite laws and who can pursue legal action in fatal bite cases.
What To Do When Someone’s Dog Bites You?
After being bitten by a dog or becoming a victim of a dog attack, there are a few things that you need to do as quickly as possible, including the following:
- Find out the owner’s name and contact information.
- Get the names and contact details of any potential witnesses.
- Take some photographs.
- If necessary, seek medical attention right away.
- Notify Animal Control about the incident.
- Discuss your dog bite case with an experienced dog bite lawyer.
Most dog bite cases arise from contact with a familiar dog, so victims are almost always hesitant to pursue legal action or let relevant authorities know about the incident.
However, it is crucial to understand that you’re bringing a civil action against the dog owner’s insurance company and not the dog owner themselves to recover compensation for the damages incurred.
In cases involving wrongful death, it may be challenging for family members to take the steps mentioned above, which is why they need to reach out to an experienced attorney.
Different Laws May Apply To Your Dog Bite Case
If you’ve suffered a dog bite or lost a loved one in an animal attack, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is essential. Knowing how local laws apply to your case and how you should proceed can help you pursue legal action.
There are two types of states when it comes to dog attacks, and these are the one-bite rule and strict liability states.
Under the one-bite rule, you cannot pursue legal action against the dog owner if the incident was the first of its kind by the pet. The dog owner gets a “get out of liability” free card for the first attack in these states.
In strict liability states, it does not matter whether the dog has a prior history of violent attacks. If a dog attacks a person, the victim or loved ones may be able to bring a civil case regardless of the dog’s previous record.
It is crucial to speak to an experienced attorney about your animal negligence case and determine whether you can pursue action to recover compensation for the damages incurred.
Who Can Recover Compensation In Fatal Bite Cases?
Under personal injury law, dog owners may be liable for wrongful death if their animal’s attacks result in the death of a person. However, the people who can bring the wrongful death claim may vary from one state to another.
In most states, the immediate surviving family members have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim or a lawsuit against the dog owner’s insurance company to obtain compensation. However, in some states, the decedent’s personal estate may be able to pursue legal action.
A wrongful death can affect the surviving family members, leading to emotional trauma, strained relationships, and financial stress. It may also make it difficult for the family to find closure.
If you’ve lost a loved one due to a dog attack, it is important that you speak to an experienced dog bite attorney to discuss the animal negligence case and learn more about your rights.
