When a dog bites someone, that person may need medical care or even miss work. Sometimes, filing a lawsuit is the best way to handle these costs. But how expensive is a dog bite lawsuit?
How Much Do People Usually Win in a Dog Bite Lawsuit?
The amount you can win for a dog bite case varies a lot. Some cases settle for a few thousand dollars if the injuries are not too severe. Other times, a serious injury from a dog bite might lead to hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars in payouts.
Insurance policies often have limits. For instance, the dog owner might have homeowner’s insurance with a certain cap on dog bite claims. If your costs exceed that limit, you might need to see if the dog owner has other assets. Your dog bite lawyer will look at all possible ways to get you the money you need.
Why Might I Need to Sue After a Dog Bite?
Not everyone who gets bitten by a dog needs to sue. Sometimes, the owner’s insurance might pay for medical costs right away. Other times, the owner agrees to pay out of pocket for your doctor visits and any other expenses. However, if the injuries are serious, costs can go up extremely fast. If you are stuck with bills you cannot afford after a dog bite, filing a lawsuit might be your best choice.
A dog bite can affect you in many ways. It might leave scars or cause major trauma. You cannot work for a while. In these situations, dealing with all the stress and costs on your own can be difficult. A lawsuit allows you to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost earnings, and other damages after a dog bite.
What Factors Affect the Cost of a Dog Bite Lawsuit?
The cost of any legal case can vary. Dog bite lawsuits have different fees and expenses
Here are some things that can make a lawsuit cost more or less:
- Severity of Injuries: If your injuries are major, you may need more professional opinions or evidence. That can raise costs.
- Medical Bills: Very high medical bills can lead to a higher claim, which might make the case more complicated. Complex cases often cost more in terms of legal fees.
- Court and Filing Fees: You must pay to file certain documents in court, and the fees vary by county.
- Expert Witnesses: Sometimes, doctors or other specialists must speak in court. They charge for their time.
- Length of the Case: Lawsuits that take months or years cost more because lawyers spend more time working on them.
If you hire a dog bite attorney, they can guide you on keeping costs as low as possible. They can also explain your chances of winning and whether it is worth going to court.
How Do Lawyers Charge for Dog Bite Cases?
Many dog bite lawyers charge a contingency fee. You do not pay them anything unless they win or settle your case. If they win, they take a percentage of the money you receive. If they lose, you often owe them nothing (but might still pay some court fees).
The contingency fee is the most popular option for personal injury cases, such as dog bites. It is often helpful for people who cannot afford large, upfront costs.
Will My Health Insurance Pay for My Medical Bills After a Dog Bite?
If you have health insurance, it may cover your initial doctor or hospital visits. Later, your insurance company might demand repayment if you win your lawsuit. This payback is called “subrogation.” However, every policy differs, so check your terms or ask your insurer.
If you do not have insurance, you might have to pay your medical bills yourself until you settle or win your lawsuit. These costs can pile up, but a dog bite attorney can work to speed up the process or explore other options for managing your medical expenses.
What Kind of Damages Can I Ask for After a Dog Bite?
When you file a dog bite lawsuit, you may ask for money to cover different types of damages you have suffered:
- Medical Bills: This covers doctor visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and future care you might need
- Lost Income: If you cannot work for a while or you lose your job, you can seek lost earnings
- Pain and Suffering: This includes physical pain, emotional distress, or mental trauma
- Property Damage: If the dog also damaged something you own, like your clothing or a personal item, you can seek money for that
- Punitive Damages: In rare cases where the dog owner was very careless or acted in a harmful way, you can ask for extra money to punish them
The total cost of the lawsuit might depend on how much you are asking for and how complex it is to prove these losses.
When Should I Contact a Dog Bite Attorney?
Talking to a dog bite lawyer soon after a dog bite proves smart. The more quickly you act, the easier it will be to collect evidence like medical records, photos of your wounds, or witness statements. An attorney will let you know if you should settle immediately or if your claim is worth a fight in court. They can also advise you on the best way to keep costs under control.
Contact a Dog Bite Attorney as Soon as Possible
A dog bite lawsuit can cost different amounts depending on things like medical bills, expert witnesses, and lawyer fees. But do not let this scare you. If a dog has caused you harm, you have the right to seek fair payment for your injuries. Sometimes, the best way to do this is by filing a lawsuit.
If a dog has bitten you or someone you know, contact a dog bite attorney as soon as possible. They can guide you through the legal process and stay with you until you secure the compensation you deserve. Dog bites can be frightening and painful, but you must not face the legal process alone. Reach out today to protect your rights and your future.