Oregon Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year. At least 17% of these attacks require extensive medical treatment. According to DogBite.org, dog attack victims suffer over $1 billion in monetary losses annually. JAMA reports this estimate to be as high as $2 billion. What’s more, there are no specific statistics that can indicate the extent of emotional trauma sustained in these vicious attacks.

Ryan Hilts, Oregon injury law firm, has successfully handled many cases involving dangerous dogs.  If you have suffered a dog bite or injury from a dangerous dog, please call for a free consultation.

In my experience, victims of dog bites are not treated fairly until they get a skilled attorney.  Before an attorney is involved, dog owners often ignore requests from the victim to pay for damages and/or refuse to notify their insurance companies.  Insurance companies often try to deny the claim or blame the victim for provoking the dog.

Why You Need a Dog Bite Lawyer

After a severe personal injury, it is often difficult to manage both the circumstances of your injury – which can include hospitalization, mounting doctor’s bills and prolonged pain and suffering – and a pending insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. An experienced Oregon dog bite attorney will gather information and evidence for your case. An attorney will also assist you in determining your next steps. Attorneys experienced in personal injury cases, like Ryan Hilts Law, know the tactics commonly used by insurance companies. An experienced lawyer helps you navigate them in pursuit of the ideal settlement.

Dog Bite Injury Lawyer Oregon

Each city and county has differing laws regarding liability for dog owners.  Certain dog breeds, for example, are known to have dangerous propensities. In some cities or counties, owners of these breeds of dogs can be strictly liable for any injuries their dog causes just because of the dog’s specific breed.  Pit Bulls, for example, are almost always on the list.

In other instances, if a dog has a history of prior attacks or if the owner knew of the dog’s “dangerous propensities,” the owner is a liability for any subsequent attacks.  This is also often referred to as the “one bite rule.”

We do a thorough investigation of our cases to find out about the dog’s history and the owner’s knowledge of history.

If you are bitten by a dog and would like to make a claim, here is a list of things to remember:

• Seek medical advice immediately as dog bites have a high chance of becoming infected.
• Whether you know the dog’s owner or not, be sure to get the owner’s home or rental insurance information, including insurance company name, policy number, and claims phone number.
• Dog bites are often covered under a person’s home or renters insurance policy and there is usually good coverage for medical expenses and damages.
• Take pictures of your injuries.

FAQs: Oregon Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

1. What should I do immediately after a dog bite incident in Oregon?

• Seek medical attention promptly, even for seemingly minor bites.
• Gather information about the dog and its owner.
• Document the incident with photographs.
• Report the incident to local authorities.

2. When should I consult an Oregon Dog Bite Injury Lawyer?

• It’s advisable to consult a lawyer as soon as possible after the incident to understand your rights and legal options.

3. Who is liable for a dog bite in Oregon?

• Oregon follows strict liability, meaning dog owners are typically held responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s history of aggression.

4. Can I still claim compensation if I was partially at fault for the dog bite incident?

• Yes, Oregon uses a comparative negligence system, allowing for compensation even if the injured party was partially at fault, although the amount may be reduced.

5. What is the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite lawsuit in Oregon?

• Generally, you have two years from the date of the incident to initiate legal proceedings.

6. What types of compensation can I pursue for dog bite injuries?

• Compensation may include medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and legal fees.

7. How can a dog bite injury lawyer assist me?

• A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

8. Are initial consultations with an Oregon Dog Bite Injury Lawyer typically free?

• Many attorneys offer free initial consultations, allowing you to discuss your case and evaluate your options before committing to legal representation.

9. How long does it take to resolve a dog bite injury case in Oregon?

• The duration varies depending on the complexity of the case, but a skilled attorney can provide an estimate based on the specific circumstances.

10. What if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?

• In such cases, your attorney can explore other avenues for compensation, such as the dog owner’s personal assets.