DOG BITES
Bainum Law expertly helps you look into the incident, create a claim, come to an agreement, and file a lawsuit if needed.
LAWS SURROUNDING DOG ATTACKS
Dog bites happen more often than you might think. The Center For Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 4.5 million dog bites occur yearly, many involving children. Most states uphold laws that make dog owners automatically responsible for their animal’s behavior, including dog bites. This rule, called “strict liability,” is applicable in the state of Utah, holding dog owners accountable without having to prove anything about the owner’s behavior or the dog’s temperament. Utah laws make it clear that a dog bite is unacceptable under any circumstance. Lawmakers have determined that in the event of a dog bite, the burden should rest on the dog’s owner.
According to Utah law, dog owners can be held accountable for dog bites as well as non-bite injuries caused by the dog. For example, an aggressive dog may be tied to a leash and then charges at someone walking nearby, causing the person to fall and break a wrist. Although
the dog did not make any physical contact with the person, the dog still caused the injury. The dog owner could be held liable for the damage if the injured person responded reasonably to the animal. Hiring a skilled and experienced
dog bite lawyer may help you to get the most money for your dog bite claim. Some insurance agencies gain a competitive advantage over individuals who attempt to settle claims without an attorney. Don’t accept less than your case is worth.
WHAT DOES AN ATTORNEY DO TO HELP ME?
1. GATHER THE FACTS
Bainum Law will discover accurate information about your dog bite incident. We will review police reports, videos, photos, and interview witnesses.
2. ESTABLISH A CLAIM
We organize the information regarding witnesses, police reports, and medical records. While you recover, we take the time necessary to ensure the evidence is complete and compelling.
3. COME TO AN AGREEMENT
Bainum Law delivers a demand letter to the dog owner’s insurance company. Once the letter is given, the negotiation process can begin. If the negotiation proves unsuccessful, we can proceed to file a lawsuit.
4. FILE A LAWSUIT IF NEEDED
If both parties are unable to reach an agreement, we may take your case to court. If you decide to file a lawsuit, we will provide legal representation.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO AFTER A DOG ATTACK?
A dog attack is often a sudden and alarming event. We offer some suggestions for what you should do immediately after the attack:
SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION
A dog bite may cause serious medical complications. After the attack occurs, call an
ambulance or proceed to the nearest emergency room as soon as possible. A delay in medicaltreatment may complicate your healing or result in a life-threatening infection.
OBTAIN DETAILS ABOUT THE DOG AND ITS OWNER
Whenever possible, record the dog owner’s name, address, and contact information.
The dog’s owner may be legally liable for your injuries and other losses.
You should also note the dog’s breed.
CONTACT LOCAL AUTHORITIES ABOUT THE DOG BITE
Whenever possible, record the dog owner’s name, address, and contact information. Dog attacks should be reported to the authorities as soon as possible. Take pictures of the injuries and keep a detailed record of your recovery process. Take periodic images of
your injuries as they heal. Obtain documents of the healing process, including doctor notes, therapy, and the time you took to recover from the dog bite injuries. This information can serve as helpful evidence during a lawsuit.
HIRE AN ATTORNEY
You may sustain significant or lasting injuries after a severe dog bite attack. Even if
you have insurance, medical treatments may prove to be costly. You may experience additional setbacks, such as taking time off work while recovering. An experienced lawyer such as Craig Bainum can help you understand your legal rights following a dog attack. Refrain from speaking with the dog owner’s insurance provider without consulting an attorney because insurance companies may tempt you to settle for less compensation than you deserve.
If you have sustained injuries resulting from a canine attack, contact Bainum Law. To speak withOUR dog bite attorney, contact us at (435) 753-2000.