Dog bites can cause serious harm to victims and the owners alike. Victims may experience physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens due to medical expenses and lost wages. Meanwhile, owners may face legal consequences, such as liability for damages and potential criminal charges.
At Monge & Associates, our attorneys represent victims of dog attacks in Roanoke, helping them hold owners accountable for their pets’ actions. We are dedicated to seeking justice for our clients and ensuring they receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses. If you have been attacked by a dog in Roanoke, trust our lawyers to fight for your rights every step of the way.
Why Choose Our Roanoke Dog Bite Lawyer?
- Our attorneys have been winning for the injured since 1993. With billions of dollars recovered in settlements and jury verdicts, we will work tirelessly to secure justice in your dog bite claim.
- When you have suffered a serious dog bite, you deserve to focus on healing and recovery. Our Roanoke personal injury law firm will take care of every aspect of your claim, alleviating your stress during a challenging time.
- Our firm takes dog bite lawsuits on a no win, no fee basis to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses. Unless our lawyers recover a settlement in your case, we will not charge your legal fees.
Benefits of Hiring a Roanoke Dog Bite Attorney
The aftermath of a dog bite can be traumatic. You can face unexpected medical expenses, struggle with physical recovery, and incur lost wages due to time away from work. The emotional trauma of the event can linger for many years, affecting your quality of life and well-being. In these situations, you deserve legal guidance to help you seek justice.
At Monge & Associates, our Roanoke dog bite attorneys are equipped with the knowledge to navigate the intricacies of liability and negligence laws that are central to these cases. We can provide comprehensive legal support, offering several benefits to help you achieve maximum compensation:
- Expertise in assessing the full extent of your injuries so that your settlement addresses both your immediate and potential long-term damages
- Experience dealing with insurance companies, countering their tactics to minimize compensation so that your rights are fully protected
- Access to a network of medical professionals and other experts who can provide detailed documentation and testimony to strengthen your claim
- The ability to conduct thorough investigations to establish owner liability, including instances of known aggressiveness or previous attacks by the dog involved
If you have been bitten by a dog in Roanoke, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Trust Monge & Associates to advocate for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
When is the Right Time to Seek Legal Assistance?
After a dog bite, seeking legal assistance can be crucial for securing a favorable outcome. While you should always contact an attorney if you plan to file a dog bite lawsuit, a lawyer can be especially important if any of the following apply to your case:
- The dog attacked you without provocation.
- The dog attacked you while you were on public property.
- The dog had an established history of previous bites or attacks.
- The dog involved in the case is a breed that is known for being aggressive.
- The dog’s owner was violating Roanoke leash laws at the time of the attack.
- You will likely suffer from permanent disabilities or long-term medical issues due to the dog bite.
- You want to file a claim on behalf of a loved one who died as a result of the dog attack.
To protect your right to compensation, contact Monge & Associates as soon as possible after the attack. During our initial consultation, we will ask questions to help understand the circumstances of your case. Then, we will develop a strategy to help guide your next steps.
Potential Compensation Available in a Dog Bite Lawsuit
Victims of dog bites may face significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. By initiating a lawsuit, you can recover damages that address the comprehensive impact of the attack. Your compensation can include, but is not limited to:
- All past and future medical expenses related to the bite, including emergency care, surgeries, and physical therapy
- Lost income due to medical appointments, recovery, or an inability to work after the incident
- Repairs or replacements for any property that was damaged in the attack, such as electronic devices
- Pain and suffering that you endured due to the physical and emotional impact of the bite
What are Virginia’s Laws on Dog Bites?
Virginia generally follows a one-bite rule, holding dog owners strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog if they knew that the animal might be dangerous. This means that if a dog has previously demonstrated aggressive behavior, such as injuring or biting someone, the owner can be held legally responsible for any subsequent injuries the dog causes.
However, Virginia does not have specific statutes detailing which behaviors put an owner on notice. Interpretations vary, with some courts ruling that the dog must have bitten someone in the past for strict liability to apply. Others have recognized that aggressive actions short of a bite is enough to establish owner knowledge of the dog’s dangerous propensities. Your attorney from Monge & Associates can help you navigate these nuances and build a strong case for compensation.
Steps to Follow After a Dog Bite
If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, take the following steps to protect your health and your future claim:
- Administer first aid if you can. Clean wounds with soap and warm water, apply an antibiotic ointment, and wrap it in clean bandages.
- Seek medical attention immediately. Dog bites can lead to life-threatening infections, and it is essential to seek professional care.
- Contact animal control to report the incident, especially if the dog is unknown.
- File a report with both the police and animal control to document the incident.
- Gather insurance information from the dog’s owner. Homeowner’s insurance may cover medical and other expenses.
- Consult with a dog bite lawyer to explore your options for compensation.
Speak to Our Experienced Roanoke Dog Bite Attorney Today
If you have been the victim of a dog bite incident in Roanoke, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance. At Monge & Associates, our lawyers understand the immense toll these incidents can take on victims and can help you navigate the legal process. Contact us today at (540) 453-7765 or toll-free at (888) 890-4058 to schedule a free case consultation with a Roanoke dog bite attorney.