Victims of dog attacks are often surprised at just how serious their injuries can be. In addition to the immediate risk of puncture wounds and scarring, you may also face long-term risks related to infection and other medical issues. If you were bitten by someone else’s dog, our dedicated injury attorneys can help you pursue justice.
You may be able to hold a dog owner accountable for your injuries without having to prove they acted negligently. Minnesota’s strict liability standard can make it easier to get justice, but it does not guarantee success. You can increase your chances of obtaining the recovery you deserve by working with our Albert Lea dog bite lawyer.
Minnesota Statutes § 347.22 generally holds a dog owner liable if their animal injures someone without provocation. This strict liability standard is different from a negligence standard where the owner would only be accountable if they knew the dog was dangerous but failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the attack.
The law also reaches beyond traditional dog bites. It applies if a dog attacks or injures someone, which means physical contact from the dog’s teeth is not necessarily required. For example, you may have a claim if a dog runs into you, causing you to fall and suffer an injury.
These cases involve other factors to consider. For example, you may have a more difficult time recovering compensation if there is an argument that you were trespassing. Our attorneys can review the circumstances of the dog bite in Albert Lea and advise you on the strength of your claim.
The amount you can recover after a dog attack depends on the injuries you suffered and how they affect your life. Our experienced attorneys can advise you on the types of damages you may recover in an Albert Lea dog bite claim. Some common examples include the following.
Dog attacks can cause serious harm, including:
You may have the right to seek damages based on the medical care for all of these conditions. This includes any future treatments you might need that are related to the attack.
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can pursue compensation for the income you lose during your recovery. The amount will depend on how much work you miss and the income you would otherwise have earned. If you suffer permanent injuries, you might also be entitled to damages based on the impact on your future earning capacity.
Medical bills generally do not capture the full impact of a dog attack. You can also pursue compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress associated with your injuries. While this can be a major aspect of your case, your attorney will need to establish how your injuries have impacted your life because pain is subjective.
Dog bites frequently affect exposed parts of the body, including the face, hands, arms, and legs. Deep wounds can leave permanent scars, even after extensive treatment. In addition to the physical consequences, scarring and disfigurement can leave you with emotional trauma.
If a dog injured you, the owner might be responsible for your medical bills and other damages. However, successfully filing a claim can be difficult without the help of a lawyer. Instead of trying to resolve your claim alone, reach out to our firm to learn how an Albert Lea dog bite lawyer can help.
