While most dogs are docile companions, there are some that can turn from friendly to ferocious in the blink of an eye. Victims of animal attacks often suffer permanent scarring, disfigurement, and other life-altering injuries.
If you were bitten by a dog, you may be wondering how much your claim is worth. Unfortunately, due to the unpredictable nature of proceedings and the number of factors that could affect the value of your claim, it’s impossible for any attorney to promise a specific amount. However, a skilled personal injury lawyer can investigate the attack and review the available evidence to estimate reasonable compensation for your damages.
Let’s look at a few factors that could impact the potential recovery in your case:
1. You Were Unable to Work
A particularly severe dog bite injury could leave you unable to work for weeks, months, or even years after the attack. If you suffered a permanent disability, it’s possible that you may never be able to work again. Thankfully, the wages you lost as a direct result of the attack may be recoverable as part of your claim.
As your attorney will require convincing proof to demonstrate how your injuries impede your ability to earn a living in the future, he or she might consult with expert witnesses such as vocational experts, economists, and your medical providers. Other evidence that might help demonstrate lost wages could include letters from your employer, paystubs, and tax returns.
2. You Incurred Significant Medical Costs
A dog’s teeth can tear through tissue, sever arteries, and even break bones. As such, depending on the extent of your injuries, you may have forked out thousands of dollars for treatments, doctor’s visits, and other healthcare interventions. In Detroit, dog bites victims are entitled to seek compensation for the medical bills they’ve incurred as the result of an animal attack. To mitigate disputes during proceedings, you should visit the doctor as soon as possible after the incident.
3. You Had to Modify Your Home to Accommodate Your Injuries
Whether your injuries have left you unable to climb the stairs, use the shower, or drive to work, there are many reasons you might have to make modifications to your home or car in the aftermath of an animal attack—a costly undertaking for most families. If you are able to prove that such changes were necessary, you may be able to recover compensation for the cost of modifying your household and/or vehicle.
4. You Needed Help with Tasks That You Used to Be Able to Do on Your Own
If you had to bring in a professional, tag in a friend, or rely on a family member to tackle tasks you were able to do by yourself prior to the animal attack, you may be able to pursue damages for such costs. You should make copies of any associated invoices, receipts, and invoices to share with your attorney during the initial consultation.
Speak to a Dog Bite Attorney in Detroit Today
Were you bitten by a dog? In the state, owners are held strictly liable for any damage their pets cause so there’s a strong possibility you may be able to recover compensation for the losses you incurred. At Seva Law Firm, we’ve secured more than $100 million in compensation for animal attack and other personal injury victims in the state. Contact us today at (248) 385-5704 or click through to our Contact Page to request a free case review with a Detroit personal injury lawyer.
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