At Tronfeld West & Durrett, our legal team has been helping personal injury victims in Virginia recover compensation for damages since 1972. Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate the complex process of claiming compensation for dog attacks, ensuring you receive the justice and financial support you need for recovery.
Suffered Injuries From a Dog Attack? Our Chesapeake Dog Bite Attorneys are Ready to Fight for the Compensation You Deserve
According to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), more than 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs in the United States each year, with nearly 1 in 5 individuals requiring medical attention for subsequent injuries or infections. Thus the importance of seeking legal guidance to safeguard your rights: under Virginia’s law, you don’t have to shoulder the costs of someone else’s negligence.
In Chesapeake, our personal injury lawyers have the necessary knowledge, resources, and experience to support victims through these difficult times. Here’s how we can help:
- Case evaluation: We thoroughly assess the details of the incident to determine the best course of action and legal strategy to pursue moving forward.
- Evidence gathering: Our team gathers all necessary evidence, including medical records and witness statements, to build a solid foundation to defend your claim.
- Legal representation: We advocate for your rights, secure a fair resolution, and protect your best interests throughout the whole legal process.
- Negotiation: Our attorneys negotiate with insurance companies to prevent lowball offers and ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.
- Litigation: If necessary, we’re also prepared to take your case to trial and defend your case with compelling arguments.
After being injured in a dog attack, it’s essential to have a knowledgeable legal team on your side. By choosing Tronfeld West & Durrett, you can rest assured we’ll fight for your right to justice and help you through each step of the legal process, from the initial consultation to the resolution of your case.
For answers to your questions with a dog bite serving Chesapeake, call:
800-321-6741
What to Do After a Dog Attack? Safeguard Your Health and Legal Rights
After a dog attack, make sure to take the following steps to safeguard your health and legal rights:
- Seek medical attention immediately and ensure all injuries are properly treated and documented.
- Thoroughly document the incident and your injuries with photos and, if possible, witness testimonies.
- Report the attack by contacting local animal control, law enforcement, or the appropriate authorities.
- Consult with a personal injury lawyer to understand your legal options.
Virginia’s ‘One-Bite’ Rule
Virginia’s “one-bite” rule affects how liability is determined in dog bite cases within the state. Under this rule, a dog owner can only be held liable for injuries caused by their dog if they knew or should’ve known their dog had dangerous tendencies to bite (as outlined in Virginia Code § 3.2-6540).
Essentially, this means the dog must have shown some previous behavior indicating aggressiveness or a previous incident of biting for the owner to be responsible for any damages caused by a bite.
This rule contrasts with strict liability laws in other states, where an owner can be held liable for a dog bite regardless of the dog’s past behavior. In Virginia, proving the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s aggressiveness is key in establishing liability in dog bite cases.
To prove the pet owner’s negligence, your case will require gathering evidence of the dog’s past behavior, such as previous attacks or aggressive incidents, to demonstrate the owner was aware of the danger posed by their pet. To achieve this, our team of attorneys follows a structured approach to liability determination.
Damages You Can Recover After a Dog Bite in Chesapeake
After a dog bite, you’re entitled to recover various damages under Virginia’s law, including:
Medical Expenses
Dog bites can result in a wide range of injuries that range from minor to catastrophic injuries. Recovering medical expenses will cover all medical treatments related to the dog bite, from emergency care to long-term rehabilitation.
Pain and Suffering
This includes compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress suffered as a result of the attack, as well as any psychological trauma like depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Lost Wages
If a dog bite forces you to miss work, you can get reimbursement for any lost income due to time off work for recovery. This also includes any losses of future income-earning potential.
Disfigurement
Severe dog bites can result in disfigurement, which may greatly affect your quality of life. In these situations, it’s possible to recover compensation for any permanent scarring or disfigurement caused by the dog bite.
Common Injuries Sustained in Dog Bite Claims
Dog bites can lead to a wide range of injuries, some of which have serious long-term consequences for the victim. Some common injuries sustained in dog bite claims include:
- Lacerations and puncture wounds
- Fractures and broken bones
- Soft tissue injuries (like nerve damage)
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Infections
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Time Limit for Filing a Dog Bite Claim in Virginia
In Virginia, the time limit for filing a dog bite claim, known as the statute of limitations, is generally two years from the date of the incident (as outlined in Virginia Code § 8.01-243).
This means that dog bite victims have two years to start legal action against the responsible party if they’re looking to seek compensation for their injuries and damages. Failing to file a claim within this period results in the loss of your right to sue. So, to protect your rights and don’t miss the opportunity to get financially restituted, it’s crucial to act promptly and consult with an experienced personal injury attorney soon after the incident.
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Benefits of Hiring a Dog Bite Lawyer from Tronfeld West & Durrett – Over 50 Years of Experience in Virginia
With over 50 years of experience in Virginia, choosing Tronfeld West & Durrett means partnering with a legal team that combines extensive legal expertise with a personal commitment to each case.
Our approach is tailored to account for your unique needs and the accident’s specific circumstances, ensuring we craft a legal strategy that allows us to successfully solve your case. For a free consultation with our experienced team, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Call or text 800-321-6741 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form