Avon Dog Bite Lawyer

If you were bitten by a dog, contact an Avon dog bite lawyer today. Dog bite wounds are serious injuries, and you should hold the owner legally responsible for the attack.

When an Owner is Liable for an Avon Dog Attack

Indiana has several laws related to dog bites. The state’s dog bite statute, IC 15-20-1-3, applies only in limited situations, such as when a postal worker is attacked. Under this law, victims can sue when they are acting peaceably and not provoking a dog, so long as they were bitten in a location where they were required to be by law.

Members of the public who are bitten need to bring a common law claim, and they have two choices:

• An owner must use reasonable care in controlling their animals. When they fail, and this failure injures someone, the victim can sue. For example, an owner who doesn’t use a leash in public has probably been negligent.
• Strict liability. An owner is strictly liable if the dog acted aggressively before, such as by biting someone else prior. This is called the “one bite” rule. A victim does not need to show the owner was negligent in restraining the dog. The history of aggressiveness coupled with a bite injury is enough.

Injured victims are not required to know which legal theory to pursue. Speak with an Avalon dog bite lawyer to learn more about your options.

What to Do after a Dog Bite

Dogs can cause serious injuries, such as nerve damage, soft-tissue injuries, and fractures. Dog bites can leave severe scarring or disfigurement, especially in visible areas like the face. Extremely violent dogs do not let go of a person’s limbs easily, and around 50 people are killed each year.

After an attack, call an ambulance if necessary. Otherwise, clean the wound immediately with warm water and soap. Infection is a serious problem with dog bites, so watch the wound closely. If you see swelling, redness, or puss, then go to a doctor.

To stop heavy bleeding, apply direct pressure using a clean towel and get to the hospital as soon as possible. Your doctor might give a rabies vaccine, along with a tetanus booster shot, both of which can save your life.

How to Make a Claim

Identify the dog’s owner and get their homeowner’s insurance information. You can make a claim on their policy. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average dog bite claim in 2019 was worth $44,760. Remember that this is only an average number—others can receive much more.

The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the cost of your medical care and whether you missed work. Many of our clients also receive compensation for pain and suffering, along with emotional distress.

Get Assistance—Contact an Avalon Dog Bite Lawyer

When negotiations fail, a victim will need to file a lawsuit to hold a dog owner accountable. This is a complicated process, so experienced legal counsel is necessary. For assistance, please contact Keffer Hirschauer LLP. Our team works tirelessly to protect the rights of injured victims.