Dog Bites and You: What You Need to Know
Most people have dogs for security and companionship. But when a dog goes out of hands, it can become somewhat dangerous. Dog bites can turn out to be very nasty and could turn in to severe injuries sometimes. According to the Humane Society of the United States, approximately 18 people die each year because of dog attacks. Dog bite victims must be provided immediate medical service, so the wounds don’t get infected or more dangerous. In Baltimore, laws concerning domestic animals are stringent. In case of a severe dog bite injury in Baltimore, the victim can consult a Baltimore dog bite attorney who is a specialist in Baltimore laws.
Victims must collect information regarding the dog owner and also any witnesses to the incident. They have to report the injury to the police at the earliest. It is advisable to receive a copy of this report.
It is essential for dog owners in addition to the dog victims to know about the dog attack legislation in Baltimore. The State of Baltimore practices stringent liability legislation. According to Baltimore law, dogs over three months old has to be licensed every year. A puppy owner, as well as the keeper of the dog, is held responsible if a dog injures another person. A Baltimore dog-bite lawyer reviews the case of their clients and updates them regarding the various areas of their lawsuit. A good lawyer explains to his clients the multiple options available to him. In several instances, the lawyers may advise their clients to opt for an out of court settlement.
Many Baltimore dog-bite lawyers offer a free consultation to victims both online and in person. Many lawyers bill their clients only if they receive a settlement for their expenditures and losses. But, dog bite victims have to make sure that their case is assigned to an experienced and reputed lawyer. It is advisable to see a lawyer one has been referred to by trusted sources such as friends and family. Victims may also research a fantastic lawyer using the Internet.
Everything you do need to show in order to recoup damages for the injuries is the following: The person you’re suing possesses the dog; That you’re conducting yourself in a peaceable way and did not provoke the dog in any way; Which you had a legal right to be where you were when the assault occurred – in other words, you were not trespassing at the time.
Oftentimes, victims of dog bites are reluctant to file a lawsuit against a family member, friend or neighbor. However, the owner’s property insurance typically covers this type of liability and so you will not be dealing directly with your family member, friend or neighbor but rather with their insurance provider. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you hire an experienced personal injury lawyer to represent you. The insurance company’s aim is to cover as little as possible and they are seasoned negotiators. Your lawyer will have the experience to negotiate with them and make certain that you are adequately compensated for the injuries.