Dogs are known as man’s best friend, but unfortunately, not all interactions with these beloved pets end on a positive note. Dog attacks can cause serious physical and emotional harm, particularly when the victim is a child. In such cases, it is crucial to seek legal representation from a Virginia dog bite lawyer.
When a child is bitten by someone else’s dog, they may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and future care, among other damages. A skilled Virginia dog bite lawyer will advocate for the child’s rights and fight for the maximum compensation they deserve. They have the knowledge and experience to accurately assess the full extent of the injuries and the impact it may have on the child’s life.
DO YOU HAVE A VIRGINIA DOG BITE CASE?
- Was your child attacked by a dog?
- Was the dog owner reckless or careless?
- Did the dog attack cause injury?
- Did the injury require medical attention?
- Did the dog attack occur in Virginia?
If You Answered Yes…
Depending on your situation, you may be able to recover monetary damages. These monetary damages may include your medical bills, disfigurement, scarring, plastic surgery, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other financial losses from the attack. Consider contacting our legal team as soon as possible to protect your rights. We will conduct a thorough investigation and fight for the compensation you deserve. We know Virginia dog bite personal injury law.
VIRGINIA DOG BITE LAWYER FOR CHILDREN
Attorney Richard Serpe has dedicated his 37-year legal career to helping injured victims and their families. His dog bite clients include children, mail carriers, delivery drivers, neighbors, joggers, pedestrians, and many others across Virginia. If you’d like to discuss your options after an attack, call or text us at (757) 233-0009 to speak with a team member.
Awards and Recognition: Best Lawyers® : (2005 – Present), Super Lawyer : (2006 – Present), Martindale-Hubbell: AV Preeminent Rating, and Avvo.com: Rated 10/10 – “Superb.”
COMPENSATION FOR VIRGINIA DOG BITE VICTIMS
In Virginia, victims of dog attacks have the right to pursue compensation from negligent pet owners. Every case is different, so victims should speak with a Virginia child dog bite lawyer to determine what theirs could be worth. Settlements may include compensation for:
- Pain and suffering. No amount of money can take back the pain endured by a child attacked by a dog, but damages can help ensure they receive the treatment and care necessary to heal as completely as possible.
- Medical bills. ER bills, doctor’s visits, ambulance rides and prescription drugs can be factored into a settlement.
- Future medical costs. If a child requires ongoing medical care for the foreseeable future, the costs of things like physical therapy and counseling can be included in a settlement.
- Facial scars & Disfigurement can stay with a person physically for the rest of their life. This can impact their self-esteem and may require expensive plastic surgery. This can be factored into a settlement.
- Wrongful Death. No matter the circumstance, losing a child is devastating. Dog bite lawsuits cannot undo the damage done in a fatal attack. A lawsuit can, however, hold the owner of the dog responsible for their negligence and ensure that the financial impact of the incident doesn’t linger.
THE UNIQUE NATURE OF CHILD DOG BITES
Child dog bites present unique legal considerations due to the vulnerability of young victims and the potential long-term physical and emotional effects. Children may not have the ability to protect themselves or recognize the warning signs of an aggressive dog. Moreover, they are more likely to suffer severe injuries due to their smaller size and inability to defend against a dog attack. These factors make child dog bite cases particularly sensitive and require specialized legal attention.
ESTABLISHING LIABILITY
Determining liability in a child dog bite case can be complex. Different jurisdictions have varying laws and regulations regarding dog owner liability. An experienced Virginia dog bite lawyer will investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, assess the dog owner’s negligence, evaluate the dog’s history and temperament, and identify any other responsible parties involved. They will build a strong case to establish liability, holding the appropriate parties accountable for their negligence.
NAVIGATING INSURANCE ISSUES
Insurance companies play a significant role in dog bite cases, as many dog owners have liability coverage for such incidents. However, dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they may attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. An experienced Virginia dog bite lawyer will navigate the insurance process on your behalf, ensuring that your child’s rights are protected and advocating for fair compensation to cover medical expenses, psychological counseling, plastic surgery, pain and suffering, and any future damages resulting from the dog bite.
UNDERSTANDING CHILD-SPECIFIC DAMAGES
Child dog bite cases require a comprehensive evaluation of damages specific to the child’s situation. Beyond medical expenses, children may experience emotional trauma, fear of dogs, scarring, disfigurement, and potential developmental or psychological issues. An experienced Virginia dog bite lawyer will consider these unique damages and consult with medical and psychological experts to accurately assess the current and future impact on the child’s life. They will fight to obtain the maximum compensation needed to support your child’s recovery and well-being.
REPRESENTING YOUR CHILD’S BEST INTEREST
As a parent or guardian, your primary concern is your child’s welfare. By hiring a Virginia dog bite lawyer, you ensure that your child’s best interests are prioritized throughout the legal process. A lawyer will guide you through every step, explain your options, and provide expert advice to make informed decisions. They will handle all legal matters, including negotiations, paperwork, and court proceedings, allowing you to focus on supporting your child’s physical and emotional healing.
VIRGINIA DOG BITE LAWYER FOR CHILDREN
Children are particularly vulnerable to the physical and emotional effects of dog attacks. Hiring a dog bite lawyer ensures that the child’s rights are safeguarded throughout the legal process. The lawyer will be the child’s advocate, handling all communications with insurance companies, negotiating settlements, and, if necessary, representing the child in court. They will work tirelessly to ensure the child’s best interests are prioritized and that justice is served. For a free consultation, call or text us anytime at 757-233-0009.
