3 Reasons Why You Need To Hire a Dog Bite Attorney in Richmond, VA

3 Reasons Why You Need To Hire a Dog Bite Attorney in Richmond

3 Reasons Why You Need To Hire a Dog Bite Attorney in Richmond, VA

Have you been injured by a dog? You’re not alone. In the U.S., over 4 million people are bitten by a dog every year, with at least 6,000 people ending up in the hospital after the attack. In Richmond, Virginia, a dog owner is liable to pay your medical bills if his negligence caused the bite to happen. An experienced dog bite attorney can help you gather the evidence you need to support your claim for damages and compensation, help you understand  Virginias dog bite laws, and prevent the dog from attacking other innocent people in the future. Here are three reasons why you need to hire a dog bite attorney in Richmond, VA.

  1. An attorney will help you understand the law

Unlike other states, Virginia does not have a stringent liability dog bite statute. Victims will need to prove that the owner was violating animal control laws — something called the “one bite” rule — which can often be difficult. An attorney can investigate whether liability exists if you have been bitten by a dog and recover the best possible settlement so you can pay for the medical treatment you need.

  1. A lawyer will carry out a thorough investigation

A dog owner might have known his pet was dangerous or didn’t take the necessary steps to prevent the attack; however, you might not have the resources to prove that he was negligent. A dog bite attorney will be able to conduct an investigation and establish whether the dog owner acted responsibly. If the dog has attacked someone in the past and the owner had knowledge of this, it could support your claim for damages and compensation. Alternatively, the owner could have been walking the dog in a public place without a leash, which is prohibited in Richmond.

  1. An attorney will uncover evidence to support your case

A dog owner might use a defense when you make a claim for dog bite damages. For example, the owner might claim that you provoked the dog or were trespassing on his property. If this circumstance arises, a dog bite lawyer can speak to witnesses and uncover evidence that supports your claim.

The Paullin Law Firm is knowledgeable regarding dog bite laws in Virginia, and we will be able to provide you with the assistance you need when claiming reimbursement for any medical costs. We can also contact your insurance company and negotiate a settlement that works best for you. Contact a member of our team today to find out more about how you can get the compensation you deserve.

3 Reasons Why You Need To Hire a Dog Bite Attorney in Richmond, VA

Sources:

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1080603209700791

http://www.greenbeltmd.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/481?fileID=752

http://www.richmondva.gov/AnimalControl/AnimalControl.aspx



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