Dog Bites Attorneys in Madison, WI Working Tirelessly to Advocate for Their Clients

Dog bites injuries are widespread. In some cases, a dog bite results in minor injuries, but generally speaking, significantly if children are injured, the results can be devastating. Statistically speaking, more than 50% of dog bites involve children.

Experienced dog bite attorneys in Madison can help gather facts, prove the parties’ involvement, and fight for your right to compensation to recover costs associated with dog bites. Contact our office at (608) 448-6242 to learn more about how we can specifically help you and your family.

What Happens to the Dog if I File an Injury Claim?

Several clients who are dog lovers themselves wonder if their injury claim will result in the dog being put to death. In most cases, this is not the result. According to Wisconsin statute, the courts may only order a dog to be put to death if they have been involved in two significant injuries and the owner was aware of the first incident.

Who Pays for the Damages?

Typically, the homeowner’s insurance of the dog owner will be responsible for the damages incurred in a dog bite situation. Some clients hesitate to pursue damages as the dog owner is a family member or friend, and they don’t want them to have to be responsible for medical bills or other expenses. Generally speaking, it is up to the insurance to cover the costs at little to no cost to the dog owner.

The dog owner is ultimately responsible for covering all damages. In some rare cases, if the dog has a documented history of causing injuries and the owner is aware, the owner may be responsible for the damages and more due to the behavior exhibited in previous cases. There are past cases in Wisconsin where the owner was liable to pay for double the damages due to the previously irresponsible behavior of the dog and its owner.

What Types of Damages are Commonly Pursued in Dog Bite Cases?

Depending on the injury’s severity, incredibly high medical costs can be incurred. In some cases, reconstructive surgery may be necessary.

Mental or physical therapy may also be required to overcome the injuries sustained in the incident. These costs can be calculated, estimated, and pursued as part of the claim.

Who Should I Report the Dog Bite To?

If a dog injures you, it is essential to gather the dog owner’s information, such as their contact information, so you can research whether or not the dog is up to date on their vaccinations. If they aren’t, you could be at risk for rabies or other infections and need to take additional steps to prevent further health concerns.

It is important to report the incident to the police, local animal control, and a physician. An inspector from animal control will want your information and information about the dog so that they can conduct a case and determine if the dog has been involved in other significant injuries.

Consult a physician to determine the extent of your injuries. In some cases, the injuries can seem superficial but can later result in significant problems. It is best to consult a doctor immediately after the incident to cover all bases.

Notifying the police can be important should you choose to pursue compensation. Having a record of the incident on file with the proper authorities may be part of the evidence that you will gather and discuss with your injury attorney.

Is There a Statute of Limitations on Reporting a Dog Bite?

If you want to pursue damages in a dog bite case, you typically have three years from the date of the bite to file a suit. Some details may change this timeline, making it longer or shorter depending on the circumstances. It is best to consult an attorney immediately to discuss the specifics and determine how long you have to file a case if necessary.

Contact our office at (608) 448-6242 to discuss your specific questions and learn more about your options. The financial and emotional repercussions of dog bites can be significant, and our team works hard to protect our client’s rights.