Most people like dogs and most dogs are friendly and fun to spend time with. Unfortunately, there are some exceptions to this rule. Unfortunately, sometimes dogs can be aggressive and can bite. This is bad enough in any situation, but what happens when you are the victim of a dog bite from your friend or family member’s dog? You do need to be compensated for the medical bills, time lost from work, pain and suffering, etc., but you do not want to ruin the relationship. At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker we have dealt with many similar cases. Read on to learn more and then contact us at 800-333-0000 for more information.
It is the responsibility of the owner of the dog to control their dog
In every state in the nation, it is the job of the dog’s owner to control their dog. They must follow all laws that have to do with their dog, including leash and dog bite laws. They must also follow the laws of any state they take their dog to. If the owner allows their dog to run free without a leash than that owner will be liable if their dog attacks someone.
With most dog bite cases in which there are significant injuries, one of two things happen: it is resolved via an insurance claim or through a lawsuit. If a person owns a dog that is dangerous and they know that their dog has attacked people or been aggressive in the past, then they could face more than civil charges, they could face criminal charges that include both fines and prison time.
Every state has different dog bit laws but in California, a person is responsible if their dog bites someone even if they had no reason to believe their dog was capable of being aggressive or biting. The victim of the dog bite can be compensated even if the bite was on public or private property. In some cases the dog owner won’t be responsible, but that mostly just involves situations in which the victim took the risk on themselves.
How can I possibly sue a friend or family member?
The issue people have is that they do not want to sue a friend or family member. We understand. However, remember that since most people spend most of their time with friends and family members, most dog bites are from a person’s family or friend. Remember as well that you have suffered damages that were not your fault. You do not want your friend or family member to responsible but why should you be responsible?
The most important thing to really understand is that you are not actually suing your friend or family member – you are making a claim against their homeowner’s insurance. This is why they have that insurance – so that if someone is injured on their property then that person gets the compensation they deserve without ruining your friend or family member financially. Call The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 if you need help kindly and compassionately working for the damages you are owed.
