Dog Bite Lawyer St. Paul, MN

Being bitten by a dog can be a scary, traumatic experience. Many dog bite victims may not realize the extent of their legal rights. In Minnesota, dogs are considered property, so the dog’s owner is liable for any harm the dog causes. A dog bite can cause serious harm and permanent scarring. You have the right to demand the dog’s owner fully compensate you for all necessary medical care and other damages.

Plaintiffs in a dog bite claim may be unfairly blamed for being bitten. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, let a St. Paul, MN, dog bite lawyer from Bennerotte & Associates, P.A., stand up for your rights and represent you throughout the litigation process. We believe in getting justice for injured victims like you, and you can learn more about your rights in a free consultation with one of our attorneys. Call today!

A St. Paul Dog Bite Lawyer Protects Your Rights

Most dogs go their entire lives without any incidence of violence or threats – but not all dogs do. A dog bite is a scary, painful experience. Injuries from a dog bite can be serious. The edges of a bite wound are more difficult to suture than other injuries, and the risk of infection is high. Some victims may have permanent nerve and muscle damage, while others have deep scarring or disfigurement. Worst of all, the owner may unfairly blame you for the dog’s attack.

You have the right to sue for damages, including all necessary medical care for the injury. Many victims also suffer deep emotional trauma from the attack and can develop lasting mental health concerns, like phobias or anxiety. Your compensation should cover your mental needs as well as physical. An experienced lawyer can fight to ensure it does.

Helping You Heal After Being Attacked By A Dog

Unlike other types of personal injury claims, dog bite cases can get deeply personal and emotional. Hiring a lawyer gives you a layer of protection in the legal process. You may know the dog’s owner personally, or they may be a neighbor or member of the community. Your lawyer can handle all communications on your behalf so you can heal in peace.

Our legal team is here to ensure your voice is heard and your needs are covered. We start by investigating the incident and the animal’s history, building a case of negligence against the dog owner. Your lawyer handles all legal matters needed to advance your claim, including negotiating with the dog owner’s insurance company for a fair settlement or arguing your case before a jury.

Do You Need Help Getting Compensation For A Dog Bite?

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, a lawyer can add a layer of protection between you and the dog’s owner. At Bennerotte & Associates, P.A., we take your rights seriously and protect them throughout the legal process. You’re entitled to full and fair compensation for your losses; we’re committed to seeing you get it. To learn more about how a St. Paul dog bite lawyer can help you, call us for a free consultation.

Common Injuries From Dog Bites And Their Legal Implications

As a St. Paul, MN dog bite lawyer can attest, dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, some of which may have long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial impacts on the victim. Understanding the common types of injuries resulting from dog bites and their legal implications is crucial for victims seeking compensation and justice. Here, we explore the most frequent injuries caused by dog bites and the legal avenues available to address these incidents.

Common Injuries From Dog Bites

1. Puncture Wounds And Lacerations

Description: Dog bites often result in deep puncture wounds and lacerations due to the animal’s sharp teeth. These injuries can cause significant pain, bleeding, and risk of infection.
Medical Implications: Prompt medical treatment is necessary to clean the wounds, prevent infection, and close deep cuts. In some cases, stitches or surgery may be required.

2. Infections

Description: Dog bites can introduce bacteria into the body, leading to infections such as cellulitis, sepsis, and tetanus.
Medical Implications: Infections from dog bites can become severe if not treated promptly with antibiotics. Victims may require hospitalization and extensive medical care.

3. Scarring And Disfigurement

Description: Severe dog bites can result in permanent scarring and disfigurement, particularly on visible areas like the face, arms, and legs.
Medical Implications: Victims may need plastic or reconstructive surgery to address scarring and improve their appearance. Psychological support may also be necessary to cope with the emotional impact.

4. Nerve Damage

Description: Dog bites can cause nerve damage, leading to loss of sensation, weakness, or paralysis in the affected area.
Medical Implications: Recovery from nerve damage can be lengthy and may involve physical therapy and, in some cases, surgical intervention.

Legal Implications Of Dog Bite Injuries

1. Establishing Liability

Strict Liability: In many jurisdictions, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, meaning they are responsible regardless of whether the dog had a history of aggression.
Negligence: In some cases, victims must prove that the dog owner was negligent, such as failing to restrain the dog properly or allowing it to roam freely.

2. Filing A Personal Injury Claim

Compensation: Victims of dog bites can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. A personal injury lawyer can help evaluate the case and determine the appropriate compensation.
Statute of Limitations: It is essential to file a claim within the legal time limits set by the state’s statute of limitations. A lawyer can ensure that all paperwork is filed correctly and promptly.

3. Gathering Evidence

Documentation: Collecting evidence is crucial for a successful claim. This includes medical records, photographs of injuries, witness statements, and any previous history of the dog’s aggressive behavior.
Expert Testimony: In some cases, expert testimony from medical professionals or animal behaviorists may be necessary to establish the extent of injuries and the dog’s propensity for aggression.

4. Negotiating Settlements

Out-of-Court Settlements: Many dog bite cases are settled out of court. A lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies or the dog owner to reach a fair settlement.
Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial. A lawyer will represent the victim in court, presenting evidence and advocating for maximum compensation.

Conclusion

Dog bites can cause severe physical and emotional injuries, significantly impacting the victim’s life. Understanding the common injuries from dog bites and their legal implications is essential for victims seeking justice and compensation. Consulting a St. Paul dog bite lawyer can help navigate the complexities of personal injury law, ensuring that victims receive the support and compensation they deserve. At Wandres Law, PC, we are here to help.

St. Paul Dog Bite Infographic

St. Paul Dog Bite Statistics

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the United States, and more than 800,000 receive medical attention for dog bites. At least half of those bitten are children.

Here are more dog bite facts:

Almost 1 in 5 people bitten by dogs require medical attention.
Children are the most common victims of dog bites and are far more likely to be severely injured.
Most dog bites affecting young children occur during everyday activities and while interacting with familiar dogs.

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, contact our office to speak with a St. Paul dog bite lawyer to find out what legal recourse you may have.

Dog Bite Lawyer: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Dog bites can lead to serious injuries, emotional trauma, and costly medical bills. A St. Paul, MN dog bite lawyer specializes in helping victims of dog attacks seek compensation for their injuries. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, understanding your legal rights and the role of a dog bite lawyer is essential. Here are some frequently asked questions about dog bite lawyers.

What Is A Dog Bite Lawyer?

A dog bite lawyer is a personal injury attorney who focuses on cases involving dog bites and attacks. These lawyers have experience dealing with the specific laws and regulations governing dog ownership and liability for injuries caused by animals. Their goal is to help victims recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the attack.

When Should I Contact A Dog Bite Lawyer?

You should contact a dog bite lawyer as soon as possible after the attack. Even if the injuries seem minor at first, complications like infections or scarring may arise later. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, including determining liability and negotiating with insurance companies. Early involvement ensures that evidence is preserved, witness statements are gathered, and all legal deadlines are met.

Who Is Liable For A Dog Bite?

In most cases, the dog’s owner is held liable for a bite or attack. Liability laws vary by state, but many states follow one of two main legal doctrines:

Strict liability: The dog owner is automatically responsible for any injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog had a history of aggression or the owner took reasonable precautions.
“One-bite” rule: In some states, the owner is only held liable if they knew or should have known that their dog was likely to bite (e.g., the dog has bitten someone before).

A dog bite lawyer will investigate the circumstances of your case and determine which laws apply in your state.

What Damages Can I Recover In A Dog Bite Case?

The damages you can recover in a dog bite case may include:

Medical expenses: Costs for emergency treatment, surgery, hospital stays, medication, and ongoing medical care.
Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to the injuries or recovery process.
Pain and suffering: Damages for the physical pain and emotional trauma caused by the attack, including any long-term effects such as anxiety or PTSD.
Property damage: If personal property, such as clothing or a bicycle, was damaged during the attack, you may be entitled to compensation for repair or replacement.

A dog bite lawyer will assess your damages and work to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Dog Bite Glossary

When dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite injury, it’s important to understand the legal terms associated with your case. Whether you are seeking compensation or simply trying to learn more about your rights, a St. Paul, MN dog bite lawyer can guide you through the process. Below, we’ve provided explanations of key legal concepts that may be relevant if you’ve been involved in a dog bite incident.

Strict Liability

Strict liability refers to a legal principle that holds a dog owner automatically responsible if their dog causes injury, regardless of whether the owner was at fault or aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies. In Minnesota, this means that if a dog bites someone, the owner is liable even if the dog has never shown previous signs of aggression. This law is designed to protect victims by simplifying the process of seeking compensation. The injured party does not need to prove that the owner was negligent; rather, they only need to show that the bite occurred and resulted in injury. This approach aims to prioritize the safety of the public by holding owners accountable for the actions of their pets.

Premises Liability

Premises liability is a legal concept that may come into play in certain dog bite cases, especially if the incident occurs on someone else’s property. Property owners are generally responsible for maintaining safe conditions for visitors. If a person is bitten by a dog on someone’s property, the property owner might be held liable if it can be proven that they allowed a dangerous situation to exist. For example, if the dog was known to be aggressive and the owner failed to secure it properly within the property, they may be responsible for injuries caused. The victim must show that the property owner had prior knowledge of the risk and failed to act to protect others from harm. This concept is particularly relevant in cases where a landlord or property manager allows a tenant to keep a dangerous dog on the premises without taking steps to mitigate the risk.

Assumption Of Risk

Assumption of risk is a legal defense that may be used by a dog owner in certain bite cases. This concept applies when a person knowingly puts themselves in a situation where there is a risk of harm. For example, if someone voluntarily enters a fenced area with a clearly posted warning sign about a dangerous dog, the owner might argue that the injured party assumed the risk of being bitten. In these situations, it can be challenging for the victim to seek compensation, as the defense argues that they were aware of the potential danger but chose to proceed anyway. However, the effectiveness of this defense depends on whether the risk was clearly communicated and understood by the victim. Understanding the nuances of assumption of risk is crucial when pursuing a dog bite claim, as it can significantly impact the outcome of a case.

Compensation

Compensation, often referred to as damages, is the financial award granted to a victim to cover losses resulting from an injury. In the context of dog bite cases, compensation can encompass various types of damages, such as medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages due to missed work, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma. In some situations, the court may also award punitive damages if the dog owner’s conduct was particularly reckless or showed a blatant disregard for safety. For instance, if an owner knew their dog was dangerous but took no precautions to prevent an attack, punitive damages might be considered. The goal of compensation is to help the victim recover financially from the impact of the injury.

Litigation

Litigation is the legal process where disputes are resolved in court. In dog bite cases, litigation might become necessary if the responsible party or their insurance company is unwilling to offer a fair settlement. This step typically involves filing a formal lawsuit, gathering evidence, and presenting the case before a judge or jury. During litigation, a dog bite lawyer will advocate for the victim’s right to compensation by proving liability and demonstrating the extent of the injuries sustained. While many cases are settled out of court, litigation remains an option if negotiations break down. It can be a lengthy process, but it may be necessary to secure the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in St. Paul, it’s vital to understand your rights and legal options. At Bennerotte & Associates, P.A., we are committed to helping you seek the compensation you need after a dog bite injury. Contact us today for a consultation and let us assist you in protecting your rights.

Conclusion

A St. Paul dog bite lawyer from Bennerotte & Associates, P.A. can be an invaluable resource for victims of dog attacks, helping to ensure they receive fair compensation for their injuries. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, contacting a lawyer early on will give you the best chance of a successful outcome.