Indeed, getting bitten by a dog is both physically and emotionally traumatizing.
Luckily, if you’ve been bitten by a dog, you’re likely entitled to compensation for your physical as well as emotional anguish. But how do you ensure you get the maximum amount possible?
The following points will cover different tips you can follow in order to get the best outcome possible with your dog bite claim. Read on.
Seek immediate medical attention
Your health should be your top priority. After getting bitten by a dog, get medical help right away. Dog bites, if left untreated immediately, can lead to infections like rabies that are always fatal to the victim.
To add, having a medical record of your dog bite injuries is important for backing up your claim.
Document your injuries
Documentation is key. Take clear photos of your injuries as soon as possible. Moving forward, carry on taking photos while you’re still in the healing process.
Aside from that, write a journal detailing your pain, discomfort, and any limitations you’re experiencing associated with your dog bite injury. This evidence will be invaluable when proving the extent of your injuries.
Understand the law
Keep in mind: dog bite laws are different in each state in America. It’s best that you keep yourself informed of such local laws and their nuances. Understanding your state’s laws can help you determine the strength of your claim and know what’s the best course of action to take to get a favorable decision.
Seek the help of an expert attorney
Work with a lawyer who’s an expert in dog bite cases and claims to bolster your chances of a favorable outcome. Make sure that you only hire an attorney from where the incident happened.
For example, you need to partner with a Utah dog bite lawyer with experience in court if the dog bite incident happened anywhere in the Beehive State. Why? They’re knowledgable of the local dog bite laws in the state, how the claims process works in the state for victims, guide you through court-related proceedings, and so on.
Report the incident
Notify local authorities about the dog bite. This could be animal control, the police, or both. An official report helps establish the facts of the incident and can be used as evidence in your claim.
Identify the dog and its owner
Gather information about the dog and its owner. Get the owner’s name, contact information, and any details about the dog’s vaccination history. If there were any witnesses, collect their contact information too. This information can help establish liability.
Gather evidence of expenses
Keep detailed records of all the expenses in relation to the dog bite. This includes medical bills, prescription costs, and any other out-of-pocket expenses. Don’t forget to document any lost wages if you had to take time off work to recover.
Consider future expenses
When calculating your compensation, don’t just think about your current expenses. Consider future medical treatments, potential loss of earnings, and any long-term impact on your quality of life. Your lawyer can help you estimate these future costs.
Understand the impact of scarring and disfigurement
If the dog bite has caused scarring or disfigurement, it’s important to understand how this impacts your final compensation value. Visible scars, especially on the face, can lead to higher settlements due to their long-term impact on your appearance and self-esteem.
Consider pain and suffering
Pain and suffering are usually taken into account in most dog bite claims. This includes physical pain, emotional distress, and any ongoing mental health issues resulting from the attack. Make sure to document these experiences as they can significantly affect your compensation amount.
Utilize support resources
Don’t be afraid to seek support. Whether it’s from family, friends, or support groups for dog bite victims, having a strong support system can help you through this challenging time. Emotional support is just as important as legal and medical support.
Don’t rush to settle
Don’t rush in to accept the first offer being provided to you by the insurer. It’s often lower than what you deserve. Discuss any offer to settle from the insurance company with your hired lawyer to ensure you’re getting fair compensation if you decide to avoid undergoing the protracted legal process.
Know when to go to court
If settlement talks don’t lead to a fair agreement, you may need to take your case to court. While this can be a longer and more stressful process, it may be necessary to get the compensation you deserve. Your lawyer can advise you on the best course of action.
Stay patient and persistent
Legal claims can take time. Stay patient and persistent. Follow your lawyer’s advice and keep pushing for the compensation you deserve. Your persistence will pay off in the end.
Leverage precent cases
Look into previous dog bite cases in your area to understand the potential outcomes. Your lawyer can help you leverage precedent cases to strengthen your claim and ensure you’re seeking a fair amount of compensation.
Final thoughts
Maximizing compensation for a dog bite claim involves many steps. Luckily, with the guide above, you’re more than ready to go through the claims process and come out on top of the situation. Good luck!
