Virtually every day there are reports of people all over the state being bitten, attacked, and even killed by dogs. Dog bites are always a very traumatic experience, and it is hard to imagine that “man's best friend” can be capable of injuring an innocent person. However, it happens more often than you may think. According to the Center for Disease Control, one in five people who are bitten by dogs require medical attention. What is even more alarming is that half of these victims are typically children.
Coping with sustained dog bite injuries can be difficult. But when the dog that bit you belongs to your friend, the situation can become even more complex. If you or a family member has been hurt in this scenario it is important to seek the advice of an experienced injury attorney who can help you alleviate some of your emotional and physical hardship.
Wisconsin Dog Bite Law
According to Wisconsin law, the owner of a dog is generally held strictly liable for any damages a victim suffers from a dog bite as long as there was no provocation and the victim was lawfully on the property. It is important to note that if the victim contributed to the incident, his or her recovery may be reduced by his or her percentage of fault.
Typically, a victim of a dog bite is entitled to receive what is commonly known as compensatory damages. Compensatory damages usually include reimbursement for:
- Medical expenses;
- Loss of income;
- Emotional distress; and
- Pain and suffering.
What Happens When Your Friend's Dog Becomes Your Foe?
Trying to recover damages for a dog bite injury can be even more stressful when the owner of the dog who caused the damage is a friend. Although you do not want to negatively impact your friendship, it is important to make sure that you still receive the compensation you deserve for the injury and to help in recovery.
Often these types of dog bites occur at a friend's home and chances are that he or she has homeowner's insurance. Homeowner's insurance policies usually force the insurance company to pay up to a specific amount as compensation for accidents caused by dogs. Thus, it is a good idea to focus your attention on your friend's insurance company if your friend has a homeowner's insurance policy that covers your injury.
Dog bite cases can be complex and each homeowner's insurance policy can be different. Therefore, if you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite in the Appleton area or in other nearby Wisconsin communities, it is in your best interest to contact knowledgeable legal professionals. They can represent your interests and help you receive the appropriate compensation for your injuries, while being cognizant of the various relationships involved in the matter.
Our experienced Appleton, Wisconsin dog bite lawyers at [[title]] are here to help. We will evaluate the facts of your case and help you recover the compensation you deserve.