Over four million Americans are bit by dogs every year. This can be a minor inconvenience, or a major health issue, depending on how bad the bite is.
But, how do you know what action to take when the worst happens?
Were you bit by a dog? Read on to find out your next steps.
Seek Medical Attention
The first thing you should do after a dog bite is to attend to your physical health. Depending on the severity of the bite, this can mean different things.
Make sure you document your injury and the treatment that you get. This will be helpful if you intend to take legal action later on. Of course, if you’re severely injured, you might not be able to do so.
Know the Law
After you’ve gotten your immediate needs taken care of, it might be time to think about acquiring compensation for your pain and suffering. That’s when you’ll need to hire a dog bite attorney.
Before you hire a lawyer, it’s helpful to understand what the law in your state actually is. These laws can have significant differences – so if you’re in Virginia, ensure that you’re on top of the Virginia laws.
There is not a strict liability law on the books for dog bites in Virginia, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have legal recourse. The owner of the dog could still be found at fault.
Virginia has a one-bite rule on the books. If a dog has previously bitten one person – or even demonstrated previously aggressive behavior – their owner can be found liable in the future.
Negligence can also play a role in your Virginia dog bite lawsuit. If the dog that bit you is found to have a negligent owner, you can still receive damages in the case. The owner needs to have taken steps to keep their dog contained on their property and away from strangers.
Find a Dog Bite Lawyer
Once you have a plan of action, it’s time to get legal representation on board. No matter what your case is, it’s important to find a lawyer who works well with you and has plenty of relevant experience.
Ask your loved ones for recommendations, particularly if they have similar previous experiences.
You can also check out online reviews to help you find a dog bite lawyer. Or, if you already have a lawyer for an unrelated matter, you can see if they have experience with this sort of case. They may at least be able to give you recommendations for trustworthy lawyers that specialize in dog bite law.
Bit by a Dog? Take Action Today
There’s a lot to do after being bit by a dog. Getting a lawyer to protect your interests is high on the list.
Do you need a dog bite lawyer in Richmond, VA? Contact Virginia Injury Law today for all the help you need.
Let's get started with your free consultation!