When dogs attack a person, the resulting injuries can be severe. Puncture wounds, infections, scarring, and anxiety are common results of a dog bite. These injuries may require serious medical treatment and may never fully heal.
If you or your loved one was attacked by a dog, you may have a claim against the owner. A Lincoln dog bite lawyer can help you understand your rights. A well-versed injury attorney can counsel you and help you gather the evidence needed to pursue your claim.
Responsibilities of Lincoln Dog Owners
Nebraska’s law is clear, dog owners are responsible for any harm and damage their animals cause. Anyone who was hurt does not need to produce any evidence suggesting the dog had a history of attacking other people or that the owner knew the dog to be dangerous. So long as the testimony of the injured person and other witnesses and any evidence such as photographs shows that the dog bit the person, he or she may have a valid claim for compensation from the owner.
Despite this general rule, the state’s dog bite statute is equally clear that a trespasser is generally not eligible to receive compensation if he or she suffers a bite while on another’s property. Trespassers are those who have no invitation or permission from a property owner to be on the land.
Moreover, a bite that occurs while a person is playing with the dog may not be a compensable injury. Whether a bite occurs during play will require a close examination of the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident. An attorney familiar with dog bite laws can help a person evaluate whether he or she may be able to recover damages for his or her injuries.
For a free legal consultation with a dog bite lawyer serving Lincoln, call 402-466-8444
Compensation for Plaintiffs Following a Dog Bite
Plaintiffs who bring a successful claim can recover compensation for the losses and expenses they sustain as a result of the bite. This can include compensation for:
- Doctors’ visits, insurance co-pays and deductibles, and ongoing medical treatment
- Wages that the plaintiff could not earn because he or she needed to miss work for appointments or to recover from his or her injuries
- Therapy for anxiety or other mental trauma brought on by the incident
- Emotional or psychological distress due to scarring or disfigurement
If the plaintiff will require medical treatment in the future or suffered a lifelong impairment, the compensation available to him or her should address these future needs as well. A Lincoln dog bite lawyer can work to calculate an appropriate amount of compensation. They can then bring a comprehensive claim against the responsible party.
Lincoln Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me 402-466-8444
Talk to a Lincoln Dog Bite Attorney
If you or a loved one was bitten by a dog, talk with a Lincoln dog bite lawyer about your next steps. You may have a legal claim for compensation. The sooner you consult an attorney, the sooner you can begin working towards the compensation you deserve. To discuss your case with a knowledgeable attorney, call Berry Law to schedule a consultation.
Call or text 402-466-8444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form