Dog bites can be incredibly traumatic. Not only do they often result in major injuries, but in most cases, they leave victims traumatized. In such cases, dog bite victims can contact a reliable attorney to pursue damages.
Those who are on the fence about whether it is worth filing a dog bite claim need to understand that a dog attack is often not a once-off occurrence, and by allowing the dog owner to continue with business as normal, a new victim could end up with serious injuries.
However, knowing what to expect is important. This article will take a closer look at dog bite claims to help victims understand whether filing a claim or lawsuit is worth the time and effort.
A Closer Look at Dog Bites
The truth is that dog bites may not seem serious to many. However, those who have experienced them understand their seriousness.
When a dog feels threatened, it will attack to defend itself and/or its territory. However, it's important to remember that dog owners are responsible for ensuring that anyone who is on their property is safe. If the victim did nothing to provoke the dog or the animal has a history of attacking people, the responsibility will be on the owner.
Tennesee's dog bite law states that dog owners are solely responsible for the damages that their dog causes on both public and private property. However, it is important to remember that a dog bite victim who has accessed the owner's private property illegally cannot file a claim for damages.
Common Dog Bite Injuries Sustained in Attacks
Perhaps the most common injury in such cases is broken or punctured skin. A dog can rip a person's flesh, resulting in wounds, broken bones, nerve damage, and more. This can be extremely painful and traumatic for the victim, and in many cases, they are not able to perform their work duties, resulting in lost income.
As a result, filing a dog bite injury claim is often the only way that they can obtain the money needed to receive the medical treatment they need.
In addition to punctured skin, there are other injuries that a dog attack may cause:
Head and neck injuries
Tissue damage
Broken bones
Scarring
Disfigurement
Infections
Bruises
Strains and sprains
Dismemberment
Cuts and lacerations
These injuries can be life-changing and, in extreme cases, may even lead to death. In these cases, the family members of the deceased can file a wrongful death claim to hold the dog owner responsible.
What Factors Influence the Settlement Amount That Victims Receive in a Dog Bite Claim?
The truth is that dog bite cases are often complex and often require the assistance of an experienced personal injury lawyer. There are a number of factors that contribute to the amount that a victim may receive in dog bite settlements.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage is an important indicator of whether a dog attack lawsuit will settle. Many homeowners' insurance policies include liability coverage for dog bites. When an insurance company is involved, victims have to exercise caution, as these companies are businesses and are looking out for their own interests. A dog bite law firm in Nashville TN can help to ensure that the victim's legal rights are upheld.
Whether the Case Goes to Court
The truth is that settling a claim in court may be a lengthy and expensive process. Both plaintiffs and defendants might want to avoid the judicial proceedings. However, if the dog bite case is taken to court, it's important to remember that the associated costs will reduce the overall settlement amount that the victim receives.
The Ability to Produce Evidence and the Strength of the Case
The strength of the plaintiff's argument and the legal responsibility of the dog owner are important factors in determining whether a case will be settled. Clear proof, such as medical documents, witness testimony, and more, strengthens the victim's case and may force the defendant to settle.
Privacy
Some people involved in dog bites may wish to keep the specifics to themselves. Settlements provide a level of privacy that court trials simply do not. Furthermore, reaching an amicable settlement saves the victim the emotional burden of a public trial, enabling both parties to deal with the incident in private.
Predictability
Settlements offer predictability, and it allows both sides to have control over what happens. A judge or jury makes the decision in court, which introduces uncertainty. Reaching a settlement privately allows both parties to agree on conditions that are mutually acceptable.
Insurance Payout Limits
Dog bite claims are frequently subject to compensation limits under insurance coverage. If the plaintiff's damages surpass these limits, the dog owner may be held personally liable. In such cases, many choose to settle on an amount that is within the confines of policy limits. Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys has information on an average dog bite settlement in Tennessee.
Improving the Chances of Receiving a Dog Bite Settlement
The average dog bite settlement can range from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the details of the case. When victims work with an experienced attorney, they can improve their chances of securing a positive outcome.
Lawyers conduct their own investigation into the dog bite and ensure that claimants are compensated adequately for the pain and suffering they experience. Legal experts can prepare a strong case and gather sufficient evidence to back up the plaintiff's claim.
They will also take into account the amount owed to the victim by looking at medical bills, employer letters, and more, accounting for past and future medical costs.
Final Thoughts - Do Most Dog Bite Cases Settle?
Most dog bite cases tend to settle out of court. With the help of a reliable dog bite attorney who has great negotiation skills, victims can get compensation for their injuries without much trouble.
An experienced dog bite lawyer will investigate the case and provide victims with guidance on whether they have a valid case. They can also help with things like advising who is at fault in a passenger side car accident TN.
Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys is here to help dog bite victims in Nashville, Tennessee, secure the compensation they are rightly due. They understand the effect dog bite incidents have on victims and offer respect and care during the claims process.