The Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Dog Bite Case

Sometimes, a dog might not choose to be a man’s best friend. This is because dog bites are common, especially in Las Vegas.

Despite the fact that most dogs are well-trained and non-aggressive, bites and attacks still occur. Hence, if you want to file a dog bite lawsuit, you need to avoid certain mistakes

In general, dog bite incidents happen mostly with children and seniors. So, if you face a dog bite or someone you love has been bitten by a dog, you might consider taking legal action.

Hi. In today’s blog, I will try to give you a better idea of how to win a legal case. Therefore, to understand what mistakes you need to avoid while filing a dog bite lawsuit, keep reading.

Are You Considering a Dog Bite Lawsuit?

In general, victims of dog bites often face medical expenses and emotional trauma. Also, they have potential legal battles to fight to seek compensation for their injuries.

So, if you face a dog bite, you can seek legal help for dog bites in Las Vegas. This way, you will be able to significantly improve the outcome of a claim.

However, you can end up making inevitable mistakes. Hence, it will weaken your case and reduce your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Therefore, you need to understand probable missteps. These factors will help you navigate the legal process effectively. Also, you will not end up with a jeopardy.

Primarily, when it comes to dog bites, Las Vegas operates under strict liability laws. This means that the owner of the dog is responsible if the dog bites someone in public or certain private cases.

When Do You Need to File a Dog Bite Lawsuit?

You will be able to file a dog bite lawsuit against someone when the bite causes serious physical and emotional damage or financial harm.

For instance, you can file a lawsuit in the following cases:

• The dog bite led to a serious injury, which required medical treatment.
• There were disfigurations or infections due to the dog’s attack.
• You or the patient faced emotional trauma like anxiety or PTSD.
• You experienced loss of wages or loss of work due to the injury or the time required for recovery.

Here, you need to ensure that you act fast when you want to file a dog bite lawsuit. Basically, when it comes to personal injury claims, Las Vegas (Nevada state) offers a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the incident.

Avoid These Mistakes While Filing a Dog Bite Lawsuit

The following are the mistakes you need to avoid when you are filing a dog bite lawsuit:

1. Failing to Seek Medical Attention

One of the most critical mistakes a dog bite victim can make is not seeking immediate medical care. Bite wounds can lead to infections or complications, such as rabies or nerve damage.

Medical records serve as essential evidence in a legal case, demonstrating the extent of the injury and linking it to the attack.

The opposing party can more easily argue that the injury was exaggerated or unrelated without proper documentation.

2. Not Reporting the Incident

Another frequent error is failing to notify local authorities of the bite. In Las Vegas, victims should contact animal control or law enforcement to document the attack. 

This official report helps establish a record of the incident and may reveal whether the dog has a history of aggressive behavior. Therefore, without a formal complaint, proving liability becomes more challenging.

3. Admitting Fault or Downplaying the Attack

Victims sometimes make statements that can be used against them later. Apologizing, admitting to provoking the dog, or downplaying the severity of the injury can weaken a claim. 

Moreover, insurance companies and opposing lawyers may use such statements to argue that the victim contributed to the attack or that the injuries are not as severe as claimed.

4. Leaving the Scene Too Early

If you decide to file a dog bite lawsuit against the dog’s owner, you need evidence from the scene of the bite attack. This is because it contains valuable information. 

Although you first need to seek out medical attention immediately, you still need to be calm enough to take pictures of the area, injury marks, etc. These factors will act as proof that the dog actually attacked you without any reason.

5. Not Gathering Evidence

Substantial evidence is key to proving liability in a dog bite case. Failing to collect information, such as photos of the injuries, witness statements, or details about the dog owner, can make it harder to build a strong claim.

If possible, victims should document the scene immediately after the attack and keep records of all medical treatments and related expenses.

6. Not Contacting the Dog Owner

Unless you have trespassed on the dog owner’s property or instigated the dog, the law considers the owner responsible for the attack.

Generally, dog owners are not aware of this. Also, they might not know that they may need to pay a fine to the court apart from paying you for the damages.

Hence, ensure that you exchange contact information with the owner right after the attack happens. Here, deal with the owner calmly by not threatening a lawsuit.

Also, give the owner a chance to make you an offer. However, do not engage with the owner if you think the owner is trying to intimidate you.

7. Delaying Legal Action

Nevada has a statute of limitations for lawsuits involving dog bites and other personal injury claims. If you wait too long to make a claim, you may forfeit your right to compensation.

Additionally, it may become more difficult to find witnesses, obtain new evidence, or link the injuries to the attack if there are delays.

8. Handling the Claim Without Legal Representation

Many victims try to negotiate with insurance companies on their own, only to receive low settlement offers.

Without legal assistance, they may accept less compensation than they deserve. An experienced attorney can assess the case, negotiate effectively, and protect the victim’s rights throughout the legal process.

Stay Calm and File Your Lawsuit

Cases involving dog bites can be emotionally draining and complicated. Avoiding these typical blunders can increase the likelihood of obtaining just compensation for damages, injuries, and other losses.

Building a solid case and holding the offending party accountable after a dog attack requires early legal assistance and adherence to protocol.

Do you have more suggestions on how to file a dog bite lawsuit? Consider sharing your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.

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