If a person is injured in a dog bite incident through someone else’s fault, they normally deserve compensation. However, to secure an award, certain mistakes must be avoided. In this article, clients of Stephen M. Reck will find a link to visit his website to learn which mistakes to avoid in an animal attack case.
Not Pursuing Legal Action
The first mistake a dog bite victim can make is not filing a claim. A person may not realize they are eligible for compensation, or they may be convinced that the bite was an isolated incident. The fact is, a dog’s character is irrelevant in these cases. Most jurisdictions have strict liability laws, which means that owners are liable for their dogs’ actions regardless of the animal’s history.
Not Hiring a Lawyer
The second mistake a victim can make is to not consult a dog bite injury lawyer in New London, CT. Hiring legal counsel is critical to ensure experience of relevant case law, and to gain an understanding of the victim’s options moving forward.
Incorrect Witness Handling
When talking to witnesses after a dog bite, victims, and their attorneys should ask the right questions to ensure useful, specific testimony. For instance, a witness’ statement that the dog was “scary” is less helpful than a witness’ description of a dog that showed its teeth, lunged and growled. Choose an experienced attorney for help in witness interrogation and handling.
Not Getting a Medical Evaluation
Because dog bites are traumatic events, it is not unusual for a victim to have difficulty remembering the events surrounding the attack. However, a person’s physical wounds can tell the story in a manner that’s hard for a defense lawyer to challenge, as long as that person has a lawyer who can read the story. Industry witnesses can distinguish between a quick bite and prolonged tearing. The distinction is important because it directly affects the amount of compensation a person receives for pain and suffering. Here, a medical evaluation is necessary to determine the nature of the injuries and the amount of the victim’s future medical costs.
Settling Too Early
One more mistake to be avoided by attorneys and clients is accepting the first settlement offer. It is important to delay settlement until the costs of the incident, such as reconstructive surgery and continuing medical care, are revealed. An experienced dog bite injury lawyer in New London, CT will work diligently to get clients the settlement they deserve. Visit our website for more information.
