Why Dog Bite Laws Matter
Dog Bite Injuries Lawyer – Dog bites happen all the time, millions of Americans every year. Most dogs are well-behaved, but even the friendliest of dogs can act crazy if they feel threatened, startled, or are poorly trained. Dog bite injuries can be serious, expensive, emotionally scarring, and in some cases deadly. Knowing your rights as a victim is key to getting fair compensation and holding the dog owner accountable.
In the US dog bite laws vary by state, some states hold owners strictly liable for their pets’ actions, others only if the dog has a known history of aggression. This article will break down the basics of dog bite laws in the US, how liability is determined, and what to expect when working with a dog bite lawyer in Oregon and other states.
Dog Bite Laws
Strict Liability vs One Bite
- Strict Liability: States that apply strict liability hold dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of the animal’s prior behavior. In these states, the owner is liable even if the dog has never shown aggressive tendencies.
- One Bite Rule: Under the “One Bite Rule” an owner is typically only held liable if they had reason to believe their dog could be dangerous, usually after it has shown aggressive behavior, like biting someone previously.
Oregon’s Dog Bite Law In Oregon a modified “One Bite Rule” is applied, an owner can be held liable if they knew or should have known their dog had aggressive tendencies. Also in Oregon dog owners are required to follow leash laws and not let dogs roam free; failure to comply can result in a negligence claim if the dog attacks.
Leash Laws and Negligence Many cities and counties have leash laws that require dogs to be restrained in public. Violating these laws can result in a negligence claim even in states that follow the “One Bite Rule”.
Why Work with a Dog Bite Lawyer?
Navigating dog bite laws can be complex, and proving liability often involves gathering witness statements, medical reports, and evidence of the dog’s behavior history. A skilled dog bite lawyer can help you:
- Assess the case and build a strong claim.
- Ensure compliance with state laws.
- Gather and present evidence for strict liability or negligence.
- Pursue compensation for medical bills, emotional trauma, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Dog Bite Injuries Lawyer in USA State
Below are dog bite attorneys in various states who have experience handling dog bite cases. These firms have a track record of fighting for victims and know the laws in their state.
1. California – Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys
- Specialization: Bisnar Chase has a dedicated team for dog bite cases, focusing on strict liability claims in California, where owners are often held responsible regardless of the dog’s history.
- Location: Newport Beach, CA
- Services: Provides legal consultation, handles insurance negotiations, and represents clients in court if necessary.
- Website: bestattorney.com
2. New York – Cellino Law
- Specialization: With extensive experience in personal injury law, Cellino Law covers dog bite cases, focusing on New York’s comparative negligence rules, where fault may be shared between the victim and the dog owner.
- Location: New York, NY
- Services: Offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay only if they win the case.
- website: cellinolaw.com
3. Texas – Law Office of Brian White & Associates, P.C.
- Specialization: Known for dog bite cases in Houston and surrounding areas, Brian White’s team is skilled in handling cases under Texas’s negligence-based dog bite laws.
- Location: Houston, TX
- Services: Provides thorough investigation, evidence collection, and strong representation for settlement or trial.
- website: attorneybrianwhite.com
4. Florida – Steinger, Greene & Feiner
- Specialization: This firm handles dog bite cases in Florida, a state where dog owners are often held strictly liable for injuries.
- Location: West Palm Beach, FL
- Services: Offers free case evaluations, and their attorneys work to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.
- website: injurylawyers.com
5. Illinois – Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C.
- Specialization: With a strong presence in Illinois, Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard specialize in dog bite injuries, often securing high settlements in strict liability cases under Illinois law.
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Services: Provides aggressive litigation support and negotiates settlements, emphasizing fair compensation for clients.
- website: salvilaw.com
6. Colorado – Zinda Law Group
- Specialization: Zinda Law Group in Colorado has a dedicated team for dog bite and personal injury cases, focusing on strict liability and negligence claims.
- Location: Denver, CO
- Services: Conducts in-depth investigations, represents clients in insurance disputes, and handles litigation if required.
- website: zdfirm.com
7. Pennsylvania – Munley Law
- Specialization: Known for personal injury law in Pennsylvania, Munley Law takes on dog bite cases, utilizing the state’s strict liability for dog bite injuries.
- Location: Scranton, PA
- Services: Offers free consultations and helps clients pursue damages for medical bills, pain, and suffering.
- website: munley.com
8. Arizona – Knapp & Roberts
- Specialization: With a reputation for handling severe dog bite cases, Knapp & Roberts represent clients under Arizona’s strict liability and leash law violations.
- Location: Scottsdale, AZ
- Services: Known for compassionate client service, the firm offers free consultations and aggressively pursues settlements.
- website: knappandroberts.com
9. Georgia – The Weinstein Firm
- Specialization: Specializing in Georgia’s dog bite cases, where negligence often has to be proven, The Weinstein Firm handles dog bite and animal attack claims.
- Location: Atlanta, GA
- Services: Provides legal guidance, and evidence collection, and represents clients in settlement discussions and court trials.
- website: weinsteinwin.com
10. Ohio – Kisling, Nestico & Redick
- Specialization: Known for expertise in Ohio’s dog bite laws, Kisling, Nestico & Redick assist clients with cases involving negligence and liability claims.
- Location: Akron, OH
- Services: Offers thorough case assessments and legal representation for maximum compensation.
- website: knrlegal.com
Additional Tips for Working with a Dog Bite Lawyer
- Document Everything: Gather photos of injuries, medical records, and any witness statements to support your case.
- Follow Medical Advice: Consistently follow any recommended treatments to show the seriousness of your injuries.
- Keep Records of Expenses: Save all bills and receipts related to the incident, as they can be used to determine fair compensation.
- Consult Early: Meeting with a lawyer soon after the attack can help ensure all evidence is fresh and properly documented.
Conclusion: Dog Owners Are Accountable
Dog bite laws are in place to protect the public and hold owners accountable for their pets. When owners fail to control their animals especially if they have shown aggressive tendencies victims deserve compensation for their pain and suffering. Working with a dog bite lawyer will help you navigate the legal process, build your case, and get the outcome you deserve.
Also Read – Ladies Car Insurance in the UK and USA
