When Man’s Best Friend Attacks
Dogs are an important part of many people’s lives. They are often even considered family. However, not all domesticated dogs are approachable and friendly to everyone. Some are trained to be guard dogs, which makes them hostile to strangers. Other dogs are afraid of strangers simply because they’re unfamiliar.
Whatever their reason, dogs sometimes bite unsuspecting adults and children. These bites can lead to costly medical bills. Recovery might require taking time off work, which means lost wages. Dog bites could cause lasting or permanent damage. However, they are more likely to cause emotional trauma, especially in children. Depending on the circumstances, you may be due compensation. Dog bite lawyers at Wirth Law Office – Nowata can assist victims in receiving remedies.
Compensation for Dog Bite Victims
If you were bitten by an unprovoked dog on a property you were rightfully on, you could be owed damages. Owners are responsible for controlling their dogs, even if it’s on their own property. Whether you were invited onto someone’s private property or there as part of your job, their dog should have been restrained and/or supervised. People whose jobs bring them onto private property, such as postal workers, delivery drivers, and meter readers, may be entitled to compensation if they are bitten by a dog. Surprisingly, chained dogs are 2.8 times more likely to bite. A leash or a chain isn’t always enough to protect others from a dog.
Dog owners are also responsible for controlling their pets on public property. Oklahoma law defines public property as “all public streets, sidewalks, alleyways, easements, buildings, parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities, and any and all places of business, amusement or entertainment which are privately owned.” Most public places require dog owners to keep their pets on a leash. While that precaution may lower your chances of being bit by a dog, it does not preclude them. For high-quality legal representation, turn to the Nowata personal injury attorneys at Wirth Law Office.
Dog Bite Statistics
There are around 4.5 million dog bites per year in the United States. Of those, only about 800,000 result in medical care. Most of these bites were perpetrated by unspayed and unneutered dogs. While dog owners aren’t required to spay or neuter their dogs, they should know the potential risks of not doing so. In 2019, 1 in 73 people were bit by a dog. In that same year, 5,803 United States Postal Service workers were bitten by dogs. While some may consider it an occupational hazard, they may still be entitled to compensation after a dog bite.
Dog bites are usually covered by homeowners’ insurance. Insurance companies paid $797 million in dog bite cases in 2019. The following year saw a 300% increase in dog attacks, due to COVID-19. With everyone and their dogs going stir crazy from the pandemic, dog bites are more common. Now more than ever, you need someone who will fight for your right to receive damages following a dog bite. The personal injury lawyers at Wirth Law Office – Nowata can be your best asset in a dog bite case.
A Note About Other Animals
Dogs aren’t the only animals who pose a threat. Livestock can also cause bodily harm and/or property damage. If an animal such as a horse gets loose from its stable and hurts someone or damages property, its owner is liable. This applies to sheep, goats, and cattle, too. Dogs may also escape and damage someone else’s property, leaving the dog’s owner responsible. In these cases, an Oklahoma dog bite lawyer at Wirth Law Office – Nowata can still assist you in getting the compensation you deserve.
Free Consultation with a Nowata Dog Bite Attorney
If you were the victim of a dog bite, you need skilled representation to ensure that you get the best outcome for your case. The Oklahoma dog bite attorneys at Wirth Law Office – Nowata understand your situation and know how to do what needs to be done. For a free consultation with a Nowata Dog Bite attorney, call (918) 932-2872 or fill out the form at the top of this page.