As part of our personal injury practice, we represent clients who have sustained dog bite injuries. We’ve decided to compiled some answers to questions we commonly receive from our clients facing this issue.
Q: Are dog bites covered under homeowners’ insurance policies?
In many cases, yes. Homeowners insurance companies are required to investigate claims issued about dog bites.
Q: Does a “beware of dog” sign remove any of the owner’s liability?
It really depends on the other circumstances surrounding the injury. These signs are mostly used to warn people entering the property of the dog’s presence rather than to eliminate liability. However, a warning of the dog’s presence, combined with a lack of permission for the victim to be on the property, could remove liability on the part of the owner.
Q: What is included in a typical leash law?
Most municipalities have leash laws requiring dogs be leashed unless in a house or a fenced-in area. A failure to follow those laws could increase the potential penalties a dog owner faces if the animal ends up biting someone.
Q: To whom should I report a dog bite?
You may report a dog bite to the police if you wish there to be an official police record. You can also reach out to your local animal control agency.
Q: What kinds of compensation can I recover in a dog bite case?
The compensation you recover depends on the facts of your case. In general, you may seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and even counseling, if necessary.
For more information on dog bite injury claims, meet with a skilled Bradenton personal injury lawyer at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh today.