What Kinds of Compensation Can I Recover After a Dog Attack

Dog attacks can cause serious injuries including damaged nerves, tetanus, broken bones, and lacerations, not to mention the emotional scars such a traumatic event can leave. If you were attacked by a dog and suffered such injuries, you might be facing hefty medical bills or even a lost job.

One of the common questions dog bite victims usually have is “What kinds of compensation can I recover after a dog attack?” A Savannah personal injury lawyer can help you sue a negligent dog owner and pursue compensation that covers all your losses.   

How to Sue After a Dog Attack

The first thing you should do after a dog attack is getting medical attention and later report the incident to Animal Control and Enforcement. Next, consider contacting a dog bite lawyer who will evaluate the specifics of your case and determine what kinds of compensation you should recover.

Dog bite laws vary from one state to another but generally, an attorney will prove the dog owner was negligent by checking if: 

• The dog has been categorized as dangerous due to past attacks known to the owner.
• The owner was not properly attending to the dog during the time of the attack.
•  The owner let the dog out in public without a leash. 

Types of Compensation After a Dog Attack

The types of compensation you receive after a dog attack should cover all your damages including:

• Past, current, and future medical bills.
• Property damage such as torn clothes or a glass door broken while escaping.
• Lost wages.
• Reduced ability to perform everyday duties like laundry or babycare or earn a living.
• Physical and resulting mental anguish.
• Funeral and burial costs in case of wrongful death.
• Loss of consortium

Laws That May Affect Your Chances of Compensation

Depending on where you live, several laws may limit your chances of recovering damages after a dog attack. 

The one-bite rule upheld in several states says an owner cannot be held liable for a victim’s damages if this was the dog’s first attack. Additionally, you might not receive compensation if you were familiar with the dog’s past aggression, trespassing, or provoked the dog.

Nevertheless, some forms of owner negligence may still warrant damage recovery, and talking to an attorney may be your best bet for getting compensated.

Get Ahold of a Dog Bite Lawyer

If you were attacked by a dog, the owner might be liable for your injuries and other losses. Building your case and pursuing compensation might prove difficult especially if you don’t understand the different laws or are still healing from the injuries.

The Nye Law Group has experienced dog bite lawyers who can help you recover all kinds of compensation you deserve. Call us at 912-200-5230 or fill the form below to schedule a free case evaluation with our attorneys.