Dogs are popular pets throughout the city, with most neighborhoods featuring more than their fair share of these furry companions. While most mutts are docile, affectionate, and playful, there are some that would sooner bare fangs than bounce around for attention.
If you were bitten by a dog, you might still be in shock. While animal attacks aren’t uncommon, barely anyone is prepared for the moment a hound turns harmful. The good news is that you may be able to file a personal injury claim against the owner to recover compensation for your medical bills and other damages. However, you will first need to gather strong evidence to support your claim as opposing parties will look for any reason to reduce your financial award or deny your case altogether.
Let’s look at a few different types of evidence that could help strengthen your claim:
1. Photographs of Your Injuries
Taking a moment to snap pictures of your wounds immediately after the attack could help improve your chances of achieving a successful outcome. Not only can these snapshots help tie your injuries to the incident, but these images may also help provide context to your medical records, demonstrating the severity of your condition and giving a judge or jury insight into the pain you may have endured because of the attack. In addition to these photographs, pictures or videos of the dog that bit you, and the area where you were attacked could also help support your claim.
2. Medical Records
After an animal attack, your health should be your top priority. As such, you should schedule a doctor’s appointment as soon as possible so that you receive a prompt diagnosis. However, undergoing a medical assessment is about more than just your well-being; taking this step within a reasonable timeframe after the attack could also help you mitigate disputes over failure to mitigate damages and help you connect your injuries to the incident.
3. Surveillance Camera Footage
If you were attacked in a public place, it’s possible that a surveillance camera captured footage of the moment you were bitten. Such videos could help identify the dog, show that you did not provoke the animal, and prove that you were not trespassing when you were bitten. If there were vehicles in the area you were attacked, their dash cams may have recorded footage of the incident, too
4. Invoices, Receipts, and Estimates
Whether it’s invoices for medical treatments, receipts for replacement services, or estimates for surgery to address scarring caused by the bite, you should compile these financial documents in a safe place. Without proof of the damages you incurred, you will probably not receive compensation for such losses. Your attorney will likely want to see these documents during the initial consultation.
Speak to a Dog Bite Lawyer in Detroit Today
No one expects to be attacked by a dog, but these incidents aren’t uncommon. If you were bitten, turn to the attorneys at Seva Law Firm. Our personal injury lawyers can meet with you as part of a free consultation, answer your questions, and discuss potential outcomes for your case. To lock in a case assessment, dial (248) 385-5704 or click through to our contact form HERE.