Richmond Dog Bite Injury Lawyer
If you or your child has fallen prey to a dog with a known propensity to bite — or if a dog owner’s negligence caused the attack, contact us at (804)554-0351 to speak to an experienced Richmond dog bite lawyer at Blank & Marcus today. You may be entitled to significant financial compensation and our attorneys can help.
A vicious dog is an unpredictable, potentially lethal animal that must be contained at all times. The serious injuries and emotional trauma inflicted on dog bite victims are difficult to overstate.
A Richmond dog bite injury lawyer from Blank & Marcus can advocate for you in court, making it possible to achieve a fair resolution to your case. Blank & Marcus is the dog bite law firm Virginia residents know and trust to fight for their rights, and we are here to help you.
What Happens If a Dog Bites Someone in Virginia?
If a dog bites someone in Virginia, the owner may be liable for the injuries caused. The bite can lead to legal consequences and potential financial compensation for the victim. It’s important to seek medical attention immediately and consult a dog bite lawyer in Richmond, VA, to understand your rights and the next steps in pursuing a claim. If you aren’t sure how to handle your situation, Blank & Marcus can work with you to create a straightforward plan for moving forward from this difficult experience.
Virginia Dog Bite Laws – Establishing Liability in Dog Bite Cases
In Virginia, establishing liability in dog bite cases typically involves proving that the dog was dangerous or that the owner was negligent. Virginia law may hold the owner responsible if they failed to restrain the dog or if the dog had a history of aggressive behavior. By partnering with a skilled dog bite lawyer, Virginia victims can navigate these legal requirements with minimal stress and expense, making reaching a fair conclusion to each case easier.
What is Virginia’s “One-Bite” Rule?
Virginia’s “One-Bite” rule allows a dog owner to be liable if they have prior knowledge of the dog’s dangerous tendencies. The first bite is not automatically actionable unless the owner knows or should have known about the dog’s propensity to bite. Your dog bite injury attorney can help you determine whether or not your case falls under this rule and what that may mean for you.
What are Virginia’s Leash Laws?
Virginia’s leash laws require that dogs be restrained on a leash or under the owner’s control when in public areas. These laws help prevent accidents and attacks by ensuring that dogs are kept safely under their owner’s supervision. If an improperly leashed dog attacks you, it is an important factor in your case.
Dangerous Dog Breeds According to Virginia Law
Virginia law does not specifically list dangerous dog breeds. However, dogs exhibiting aggressive behaviors, regardless of breed, can be deemed dangerous if they threaten public safety. Dog bite cases often focus on the dog’s behavior rather than the breed, relying on clear evidence to prove that the specific dog was unsafe to society.
How Can a Dog Bite Lawyer in Richmond, Virginia Help You?
A dog bite lawyer in Richmond, Virginia, can provide crucial assistance by investigating the incident, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies. They ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Figuring out how to sue someone for a dog bite can be intimidating and confusing, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our skilled attorneys will support you at every stage so you can focus on your recovery.
Trust a Richmond dog bite attorney from Blank & Marcus to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.
How Much Compensation Can You Receive for a Dog Bite?
Compensation for a dog bite can cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, scarring, and other related costs. The amount varies based on the severity of the injury and other factors. With the help of a knowledgeable dog bite lawyer, Virginia residents can get clear answers about their cases and pursue the compensation they deserve.
Economic Damages
Economic damages include quantifiable losses such as medical bills, future medical bills to include plastic surgery, lost wages, and costs for ongoing treatments. These damages aim to compensate for the financial impact of the dog bite injury. An experienced dog bite lawyer in Richmond, VA, can help ensure that all your economic losses are accurately calculated.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages cover intangible losses such as pain and suffering, embarrassment, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life. These damages are more subjective but are crucial for a complete recovery. Your injury attorney will advocate for fair compensation for these non-economic impacts.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages may be awarded to punish the dog owner for egregious behavior or negligence and to deter similar conduct. These damages are separate from compensatory damages and are awarded in cases where the owner’s actions were particularly reckless or harmful. Not only can punitive damages contribute to the victim’s rightful compensation, but it can also deter the dog owner from future negligence.
How Long Does It Take For a Dog Bite Settlement?
The timeline for a dog bite settlement can vary depending on the complexity of the case and negotiations with insurance companies. Settlements can take several months to over a year. Working with an experienced Virginia dog bite lawyer can help expedite the process and secure you a fair resolution as quickly as possible.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bites and Dog-Related Injuries
Virginia’s statute of limitations for filing a claim for a dog bite or dog-related injury is two years from the incident date, as per Virginia Code § 8.01-243. It is important to file your claim within this period to protect your legal rights. Contact our legal team promptly to start your case.
When Should You See a Doctor After a Dog Bite?
You should see a doctor immediately after a dog bite to assess and treat potential injuries or infections. Prompt medical attention is crucial for proper treatment and documenting the injury for any legal action you may pursue. Keep all paperwork you receive from your healthcare provider, as it will be important to your case.
Do Doctors Have to Report Dog Bites in Virginia?
Yes, in Virginia, doctors are legally required to report dog bites. However, they may document the incident and any related details in your medical records, which can be useful for treatment and legal purposes. Reporting the bite to local authorities may still be necessary to ensure public safety.
Experienced Dog Attack Attorneys Serving Richmond And Statewide Virginia
You will find proven Richmond dog bite injury attorneys at our law firm. We have successfully resolved hundreds of high-value lawsuits, including many involving injury to a child. Our approach includes rigorous efforts to:
- Investigate the case promptly and thoroughly to establish liability on the part of the dog’s owner or keeper
- Determine whether homeowners insurance or other premises liability coverage applies, or if there are other potential sources of financial recovery
- Work with medical professionals to demonstrate the total impact of the injuries that occurred, including the consequences of permanent scarring and psychological harm
- Construct the strongest possible case for our client and aggressively target all available compensation
Consult with Our Law Firm’s Richmond Dog Bite Lawyers Today!
Although pit bulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans, and certain other breeds are often categorized as the most dangerous, any dog can bite and inflict serious injury. Physical and psychological recovery is often arduous, with many costs that may be difficult to project right after the attack.
At Blank & Marcus, LLC, our Richmond personal injury attorneys approach each case with diligence and passion. As a trusted dog bite lawyer in Virginia, we will thoroughly assess your potential dog bite lawsuit, counsel you on your legal rights, and identify the best strategies for earning a favorable outcome. As soon as possible after any serious dog bite in Virginia, we urge you to contact us at 804-554-0351 or 866-207-9823 for the dedicated representation you deserve.
Get a free, no-obligation legal consultation for your dog bite injury today!