Most dogs are docile, loveable, and affectionate, but this isn’t true for all canines. Some can turn violent without warning, launching savage attacks that leave the victims seriously injured. From scarring and disfigurement to permanent disabilities, these animals can cause long-term damage and life-long health complications.
If you were hurt in an animal attack, you may be wondering if it’s worth hiring a lawyer to help you recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other losses. While it is possible to pursue compensation by yourself, proceedings are notoriously unpredictable and unforgiving, so any mistakes you make won’t be easily overlooked by opposing parties.
Not only can hiring an attorney help you sidestep common errors, but a skilled animal attack lawyer can also help simplify your life by handling the logistics of building a claim. Let’s look at a few more ways an attorney can assist with your dog bite case:
1. Investigate the Accident
Much of the evidence needed to support a dog bite claim can be time-sensitive, so it’s in your best interests to begin gathering proof as soon as possible. Thankfully, when you hire an attorney to oversee your case, he or she will usually investigate the incident on your behalf, making sure you have everything you need to corroborate your version of events.
Evidence that might play a role in your case can include:
- Eyewitness statements;
- Photographs of the animal that attacked you;
- Pictures of your injuries;
- Official police reports;
- Medical records;
- Surveillance camera recordings of the attack; and
- Personal property such as the clothing you were wearing at the time of the incident.
2. Correspond with Opposing Parties
Whether it’s the dog’s owner, their legal team, or their insurer, you might have to deal with many different parties throughout proceedings. However, anything you say in conversations with the others involved could be used as evidence to dispute your case, so you will have to be careful about what you say. Fortunately, a dog bite lawyer can grab the reins, overseeing all dialogue with opposing parties so you won’t have to worry about unintentionally hurting your claim.
3. Represent You throughout Proceedings
Negotiating a claim can be a time-consuming and emotionally draining undertaking. While you could handle your case on your own, doing so can take your attention away from your most pressing concern: your recovery. An attorney can step in to represent you throughout proceedings, handling the logistics of your case and helping you fight for a fair settlement.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Detroit Dog Bite Attorney
Were you seriously injured in an animal attack? The legal team at Seva Law Firm can help you hold the liable parties accountable for the losses you’ve incurred.
From the first consultation, we will treat you with dignity, professionalism, and respect. Our legal team will not only do everything in our power to help you achieve a favorable outcome, but can also provide guidance and support to alleviate stress during this challenging chapter of your life. To lock in a free case review with a Detroit personal injury attorney, reach out to us at (248) 385-5704 or by sending us a message using our contact page HERE.