How Much Does It Cost for a Dog Bite Lawyer?

Since no two dog bite incidents are the same, it can be next to impossible to determine how long your specific lawsuit would take. However, there is the possibility of resolving dog bite claims with an out-of-court settlement before it comes to a trial or before filing a lawsuit. Reaching an agreement out of court can speed up the process considerably, and you could receive a settlement much faster than with a case going to trial. 

Some important factors come into play when determining the approximate length of a dog bite lawsuit, including but not limited to: 

• The severity of your injuries
• The scope of all your damages
• Whether the negligence of a dog owner is clear
• Whether you can reach a fair out-of-court settlement 

Therefore, until you are some way into the legal process, it can be tricky to know how long a suit takes to settle. 

What You Can Do to Speed Up Your Case

Taking the right action after getting bitten and attacked by a dog can be crucial for recovering compensation in a timely manner. First of all, see your doctor for a medical evaluation as soon as possible and make sure to request a medical report listing all injuries, including any emotional effects. Your next steps can include: 
 

• Contacting law enforcement 
• Collecting evidence to prove your case
• Contacting local animal control 
• Consulting with a dog bite lawyer

A dog bite lawyer from our firm can help you navigate all aspects of your claim, including negotiation with the at-fault party and their insurance company. Your attorney will do anything they can to move your case along, ensuring there are no unreasonable delays. 

A dog owner is generally responsible for their pet’s actions, including the injuries or property damage it causes. While laws can differ from one state to another, the following laws can apply when it comes to the responsibility of dog owners: 

• Most state laws include dog bite statutes that hold an owner liable for any damages caused by their pet 
• General negligence laws can also apply for holding a dog owner liable when they have acted negligently in failing to control their animal

Unless you were illegally trespassing when the attack occurred, you could hold a dog owner to account for your damages.

Victims of dog attacks may question whether or not to pursue damages from a dog owner. However, if you suffered severe bites, your damages, such as medical bills, lost income, and other expenses, can mount up quickly. Moreover, you could be facing considerable future healthcare expenses. Generally, if you suffered a significant injury, it can be worth seeking legal recourse.

If your physical injury from a dog attack is minor, you could still recover compensation. Dog attacks do not only cause physical injuries but can also result in significant emotional distress. In some cases, individuals who have suffered injuries in dog attacks develop a lifelong fear of dogs. You could recover compensation for any mental and emotional distress suffered in a dog bite incident. 

Most dog bite claims settle out of court. However, if the dog owner or their insurance party tries to minimize or deny you a fair settlement, you might have to file a lawsuit to get justice. 

Do not worry about the cost of a dog bite lawyer. Our attorneys work on a contingency basis, and there are no out-of-pocket costs if we take your case. Moreover, we can evaluate your dog bite incident for free and advise you whether it is worth filing legal action.

If you were bitten by a stray dog, pursuing compensation can be impossible. However, you could seek damages if a negligent party can be identified. In some cases, even when individuals are bitten by a stray dog, someone is responsible, such as an animal shelter that allowed a dog to escape. Consulting with a dog bite lawyer about your specific case can provide clarity. 

Generally, it can be in your best interests to seek legal advice as soon as the dog bite occurs. Most states have time limits, so-called “statutes of limitation,” that determine the time frame available for filing a lawsuit. Filing too late could see your case thrown out by a court and leave you unable to recover any compensation for your ordeal. Protect your legal rights and speak to one of our dog bite attorneys to determine the best timing for legal action in your specific case.

The days after a dog attack can be confusing, especially if you suffered significant injuries. However, it can be in your best interests to speak to a dog bite lawyer and find out about your legal rights and options. 

Fighting an insurance company without legal representation could result in leaving money on the table or having to shoulder your medical costs and other expenses on your own. Morgan & Morgan wants to help you avoid this. One of our experienced dog bite lawyers can help you in numerous ways, including but not limited to:

• Offering legal advice and guidance
• Working with investigators to collect evidence for your case
• Proving the dog owner’s negligence or recklessness 
• Determining whether the dog was generally dangerous and has harmed others
• Negotiating with the dog owner’s insurance company
• Presenting your case strongly at trial

Contacting a lawyer as soon as possible after your dog attack can be crucial as there are generally time limits for filing a personal injury case. 

Apart from painful injuries and emotional scars, dog bites can leave a huge dent in your finances. Victims requiring surgeries or physical therapy after an extensive dog attack can end up with astronomical and ongoing medical bills. However, dog owners are required to keep their animals under control, especially in cases where a dog is known to be troublesome or dangerous.

If a dog owner’s negligence caused your injuries and damages, they should pay for your expenses and not you. You do not have to struggle through a potentially complicated and time-consuming dog bite lawsuit on your own. Morgan & Morgan’s determined lawyers can build a case against a negligent dog owner and leave no stone unturned in fighting for full and fair compensation on your behalf.  

We have won more than $20 billion in damages for injured clients. There are no upfront costs to work with a dog bite lawyer. Get started and contact us now for a free evaluation.