Dog Bites and Recovering Compensation After an Injury
If you or someone you love has suffered a dog bite in Washington, D.C., it is important to understand your legal rights and options. Dog owners in the District of Columbia are strictly liable for the actions of their pets, meaning that they can be held responsible for any injuries or damages caused by their dog, regardless of whether they knew or should have known that the canine was dangerous.
If you have been injured by a dog in Washington, D.C., you may be able to recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages and additional damages. It is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and ensure that your rights are protected. The injury should also be reported to animal control.
Statute of Limitations for Personal Injuries
The statute of limitations in Washington, D.C. for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident, so it is important to act quickly. Contact a dog bite lawyer in The District today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal options.
What Complications Can Occur From a Dog Bite?
Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional injuries, and in some cases, they can even be fatal. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 4.5 million individuals suffer dog bites each year in the United States, and nearly one in five of those bites require medical attention.
Dog bites can lead to a variety of complications, including:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Disfigurement
- Nerve damage
- Emotional trauma
It is crucial to obtain medical attention quickly after being bitten by a dog so that any potential complications can be properly treated.
Proving Liability in a Washington, D.C. Dog Bite Case
In order to recover compensation after a dog attack in Washington, D.C., you will need to prove that the dog owner was liable for your injuries. As mentioned above, dog owners in the District of Columbia are strictly liable for any damages caused by their pet, regardless of whether they knew or should have known that the dog was dangerous.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you were trespassing on the dog owner’s property when you were attacked, or if you provoked the dog, you may not be able to recover damages. An experienced personal injury attorney will be able to review the facts of your case and determine whether you have a valid claim.
Recovering Damages in a Washington, D.C. Dog Bite Case
If you are successful in proving that the dog owner was liable for your injuries, you may be able to recover a wide range of damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
In some cases, punitive damages may also be available. Punitive damages are designed to punish the dog owner for their negligence and are only awarded in cases where the recklessness or intentional misconduct of the defendant is proven.
Roeser Law Firm: Call a Washington, D.C. Dog Bite Lawyer
If you or someone you love has been attacked by a dog in Washington, D.C., it is important to understand your legal rights and options. The experienced attorneys at Roeser Law Firm will be able to review your case and help you recover the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (202) 660-4070 to schedule a free consultation. We can also be reached online.
