Many accidents often require legal assistance. These incidents may be motor vehicle or work-related. They can happen right in your backyard or when you least expect them. Our practice areas are extensive, offering you the most comprehensive assistance and knowledge. Here, we will look at handling personal injury cases for dog bites.
Laws for Paws
When it comes to dog bites, the state’s laws commonly place accountability on the owner. In fact, Minnesota Statue 347.22 specifies that if an unprovoked dog “attacks or injures any person who is acting peaceably in any place where the person may lawfully be, the owner of the dog is liable in damages to the person so attacked or injured to the full amount of the injury sustained.”
In some instances, the victim and owner may have differing ideas of how a situation played out. We can help explain how the courts determine and define provocation and voluntary conduct and how this relates to your case.
What to Do
Hopefully, you never have to worry about an animal attack. However, knowing what steps to take and information to collect can be helpful for you and your case. If you are attacked by a dog:
- Get names and addresses of the owner and/or person responsible for the dog.
- Ask for proof of rabies vaccination.
- Seek necessary medical attention.
- Contact the police or animal control to file a report.
- Take pictures of your injuries.
- Keep track of the details, including names, dates, location, and any medical treatments you received.
Recording accurate and thorough information can help solidify your case.
When Problems Arise
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, more than 4.5 million people in the United States suffer dog bites every year. Children are the most common victims.
Bites or attacks don’t always involve random dogs. Maybe a neighbor, friend, or family member’s animal inflicts an injury upon you or your child. Because the incident is with a known pet, you might feel awkward taking legal action.
You should feel comfortable when your safety is involved, and we can help. No matter the circumstance or injury, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Bolt Law Firm will address your questions and concerns. We’ll help you claim your rightful compensation. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation.