A dog/animal attack is a frightening and traumatic event, especially for a child victim. Dog attacks on victims are often unprovoked. Generally, the dog's owner is legally responsible for the injuries and damages caused by the attack if the dog was not being teased, tormented or abused by the victim, the victim was not trespassing and the victim did not provoke the attack.
The scene in the aftermath of a dog attack is usually chaotic. Focus first on providing or arranging for the appropriate medical care for the victim. Then you should get as much information as possible about the dog the dog/s history, the dog's owner by name, address and telephone number, and the dog owners insurance company's name, address and telephone number.
The injuries sustained in a dog attack may be permanently impairing or disfiguring. The victim may incur substantial expenses for medical care and treatment and there may be substantial medical treatment expenses in the future.
Some dog owners have insurance coverage for claims of injuries caused by their dogs. An insurance company representative will generally investigate an incident and will want to interview the victim and witnesses, if any. The insurance representative may offer the victim a quick monetary settlement if the victim will sign a release of liability. The insurance company representative is not required to act in the victim's best interest. Do not sign anything without obtaining your attorney's counsel and advice.
If you, a friend, relative or loved one has been injured in a dog attack, please call Attorney Jonathan A. Broverman for a free initial consultation.