A dog bite qualifies for a personal injury claim, just like a car accident. In the United States, about 4.5 million dog bites are recorded every year. Out of those numbers, about 800,000 require medical treatment. Therefore, lawsuits are uncommon due to negligence and liability. Learn more about a dog bite injury claim if you are in such a situation.

Evidence Is Crucial to Build a Case

For starters, you have to prove liability to receive fair compensation. Therefore, you need to gather evidence to show that the pet's owner is liable for your injury. After the incident, take photos of the bite marks. Also, snap a picture of the dog without a leash. 

For a stronger case, photograph a broken fence and an escape route where the dog resides. You can also talk to crucial witnesses and ask for their contacts. The information will help you if you take the matter to court.

Some Factors Weaken Your Case

Depending on the state that you live in, a dog owner might not pay your claims. Here are circumstances that weaken your case:

Provoking the dog: If you teased the dog, which led to a bite, the chances of receiving a settlement are slim. The owner will argue that you were aggressive towards their pet.

Trespassing: You might not get compensation if you were trespassing. Typically, you were at the wrong place at an odd time. 

Prior warning from the dog's owner: If the owner warned you that their dog isn't friendly and you ignored the caution, you will take part of the blame. It means that the negligence will be on your part. 

Working with a Lawyer Is Essential

Filing a dog bite claim on your own can be complicated if you don't understand the law. You might end up losing a case due to errors in paperwork. Therefore, you need to work with a personal injury lawyer to come out triumphant. The expert will collect sufficient evidence and argue your case.

What's more, the legal expert will negotiate the compensation with your insurer. You will be at peace knowing that someone has your back.

Claim Value Differs

Your claim will depend on the damage the dog caused to you. Thus, you can't quote any figure and request the settlement. The amount relies on your medical bills, transportation costs, therapy charges, lost wages, and out-of-pocket hospital expenses.

In addition, an insurance company can cater to emotional damages like suffering and pain. Calculate the amount in total and write a demand letter to your insurer for an offer.

If you suffered from a dog bite, contact a personal injury lawyer to learn if you can do something about it.