Madison Dog Bite Lawyer: Fighting for Your Rights After a Pet Attack
Dog bites cause painful injuries, permanent emotional harm, and expensive medical care. In Madison, Wisconsin, where there are numerous roaming dogs that infest parks, neighborhoods, and trails, angry or inadequately trained pet attacks are common. Dog bite victims can end up with piling medical bills, lost wages, and even lifetime scarring. A Madison dog bite lawyer can then be your best friend in securing a claim and holding irresponsible dog owners accountable.
Wisconsin Dog Bite Laws
Wisconsin has some statutes that mandate liability for dog bites. Unlike some other states, Wisconsin uses a “strict liability” concept. This means that a dog owner can be held liable the first time their dog bites someone — even if his or her dog has never been in an altercation before. Wisconsin Statute 174.02 provides that if a dog bites a human being, the owner of the dog is liable for all damages. The owner is liable for double damages if the dog had already bitten someone before or was even well known for its aggressive behavior. This legal system is kinder to the victims but does not promise the process will be trouble-free. Insurance companies can still attempt to deny claims or minimize injuries. That is where a seasoned dog bite attorney is needed.
How a Madison Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help?
Madison dog bite attorneys are experts in the nuances of personal injury law governing animal attacks. Their objective is to help victims obtain maximum and equitable compensation for:
Medical bills (emergency treatment, surgery, physical therapy)
Lost wages from missed work
Pain and suffering
Emotional trauma or mental counseling
Permanent scarring or disfigurement
The lawyer starts by collecting evidence like medical documents, eyewitness testimony, and any previous grievance against the owner or dog. They can also collaborate with medical experts to ascertain the long-term effect of the injuries.
In the majority of cases, they are settled by negotiations with the dog owner’s renters or homeowner’s insurance. But if they are not willing to make a reasonable settlement offer, an experienced attorney is ready to litigate the case.
Typical Injuries from Dog Bites
Dog bites produce more than skin damage. Typical injuries involve:
Deep puncture wounds
Nerve damage
Broken bones (most commonly children)
Facial injuries requiring reconstructive surgery
Injuries caused by infections like tetanus or rabies
PTSD or dog fear
Such types of injuries heal and recover for very long durations of time, and for this reason, proper legal representation is imperative in securing compensation that perfectly interprets the effect of the attack.
Selecting the appropriate attorney
When looking for a dog bite attorney Madison, pick one that has an excellent record of experience with cases like yours. Pick those with free consultations and contingency fee — you only pay if they win your case. Perhaps most important is selecting one who is an open communicator and treats your case with kindness and passion.
Conclusion
Dog bites can alter one’s life forever. With the assistance of an experienced Madison dog bite lawyer, you can potentially get your way with the law, battle insurance firms, and get the award you deserve. With the proper legal ally, you can concentrate on getting better as they take on the battle for justice.