Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

Dog Bite and Animal Attack Attorneys

Washington D.C. | Maryland | Virginia

A dog bite or animal attack can have serious consequences. Not only can the injuries from the actual bite or attack be severe, but the bacteria from the animal's mouth can also cause an infection. The animal could transmit diseases like rabies, resulting in the need for extremely painful injections. In addition, the trauma associated with an animal attack can be long term, requiring years of psychological treatment, especially for children and vulnerable adults. More importantly, since most animal bites are suffered by children, it is important to address not only the medical needs immediately, but your legal concerns as well since a child's body heals faster, their injuries tend to be more severe and their memories not as accurate.

A qualified personal injury attorney can help you fight for the proper and just compensation you deserve for a dog bite or animal attack injury. At the Law Offices of Frederick J. Brynn, PC, we have experience helping the citizens of Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., fight for compensation for injuries received from dogs or other animals. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a free initial consultation where you can tell us about your case.

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Most dog bite and animal attack matters fall under premises liability claims since traditionally compensation is sought from the animal owner's homeowner's insurance policy. Our attorneys are proficient in these types of claims and we understand the laws regarding animal attacks as they apply to each state.

Regulations and laws applying to dog bites and animal attacks vary from state to state. For instance, Virginia does not have a dog bite statute. Like Maryland, Virginia operates on a bite principle. This means that the owner is not responsible for the first bite from their animal, but after this occurs they are presumed to be on notice that the animal could bite again. They will be liable for subsequent attacks since they know the animal is capable of harm. More importantly, there is no compensation for a dog owner's negligence in these states unless the animal has bitten before, which means you cannot recover if the owner forgets to leash their animal or forgets to lock their cage.

It is also important to not talk to an insurance company representative before consulting with a lawyer. An insurance company will want to settle quickly, especially if there is scarring or disfigurement, because this is in their best interest and helps protect their bottom line. You should contact an attorney to help you negotiate with them, explain all available options to you and give you a realistic assessment of the value of your case. Our office will always represent you vigorously at the negotiation table and at trial if it is necessary to protect your best interests. Contact our office today and let us help you with your dog bite claim.