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 In
many jurisdictions, the owners of a dog that
bites someone are "strictly liable" for the
injuries caused. This makes the initiation
of a claim fairly easy, but
proving damages
is another story. In other jurisdictions,
proving negligence of the dog owner is
required in that it becomes necessary to
show that the owner had previous malice and
that the dog was dangerous.
We document each case with
extensive photographs
obtained early and often throughout the
course of healing. Don't wait to have these
pictures taken because often many of the
teeth marks (and bruising) disappear with
time.
We also have clients consult with a
plastic surgeon
to document any scarring with regard to its
permanency and future costs to repair.
Proper preparation and explanation of
damages yields vastly superior results at
the time of settlement, mediation or trial.
Another significant aspect of these claims
which is often overlooked is the "fear
factor" of coming in contact with dogs. This
is a very normal
post traumatic response,
but usually requires several weeks or even
months of counseling to overcome. This must
all be properly documented through qualified
professionals in order to validate this
aspect of the injury and obtain
fair value for damages
in these types of cases.
OMeara and
Newborn, Injury Law Firm Attorneys practicing injury law in NH and VT
Cheshire
County, Windham County, and Connecticut River Valley
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