The average settlement for a dog bite depends on several factors, including the extent of your injuries, the amount of your medical expenses, and the strength of the liability in your case. A Marietta dog bite lawyer at Jones & Swanson will meet with you to discuss your claim and your injuries. An estimate of the value of your claim is easier to provide if you have completed your treatment and fully healed from your injuries.
At Jones & Swanson, we will give you personalized counsel and attention throughout your case, working hard to get the settlement you deserve. By hiring a lawyer, you give yourself a compassionate advocate who puts you first and prioritizes your recovery.
Let’s take a look at the factors that influence the amount of a dog bite settlement and how we will pursue those damages.
The Average Settlement for a Dog Bite Includes Medical Expenses
If you’ve suffered injuries in a dog bite incident or attack, you’ll be pleased to know that the average settlement for a dog bite includes recovery for your medical costs. At Jones & Swanson, we will review your medical records and work with your doctors to calculate the amount of damages you’ll need to cover current and future medical expenses.
A dog bite settlement covers the following forms of treatment:
- Emergency room treatment
- Stitches or wound care
- Prescription medications
- Follow-up visits
- Physical therapy
- Future medical costs
Lost Wages May Make Up a Portion of Your Settlement
The average dog bite accident settlement will also include your lost wages and decreased earning capacity. If your injury has stopped you from working, we can pursue damages to make up for your lost wages.
If the incident has left you with lasting impairments that limit your ability to perform your job duties, your attorney may seek damages for reduced earning capacity. This can help you support yourself while you’re unable to work.
A Settlement Will Account for Pain and Emotional Distress
The physical and emotional pain caused by a dog bite can be intense and lasting. If you’re experiencing pain or emotional distress after a dog attack, you’ll want to keep a written record of it and tell your attorney.
Your lawyer will pursue a dog bite settlement that provides damages for the following economic challenges:
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Scarring and Disfigurement Damages
Dog bites often cause visible injuries, including facial wounds, torn skin, and permanent scarring. These lasting marks can cause a great deal of emotional pain and distress.
Fortunately, the average settlement for a dog bite will include coverage for your scarring and disfigurement. This gives you the resources you need to cope with the loss of confidence and cover cosmetic procedures.
Insurance companies often undervalue them, but a lawyer can argue why you should recover scarring and disfigurement damages. They’ll work hard to ensure the emotional and financial cost of disfigurement is reflected in your settlement.
How a Lawyer Can Get a Fair Dog Bite Settlement for You
If you’ve been bitten or attacked by someone else’s dog, you should focus on your physical recovery and seek medical treatment. Once you’ve been treated, you’ll want to hire an experienced attorney who has the experience required to file a strong claim on your behalf.
A lawyer will take the following steps to get the dog bite settlement you deserve
- Investigate the incident thoroughly.
- Collect evidence, including photos, medical records, witness statements, and police reports.
- Work with medical professionals and other experts to document your damages.
- Handle all communications with the insurance company and negotiate a settlement that meets your needs.
- File a lawsuit if the insurer refuses to offer a fair amount of damages.
- Explain what the average settlement for a dog bite is and answer any questions you have about your case.
Your attorney will listen to your story and work hard to find out how this incident has impacted your health, livelihood, and emotional well-being. Once your attorney has a clear picture of how the dog attack has impacted your life and is expected to affect your future, they’ll fight for the damages you need to support your recovery.
Talk to a Lawyer About Your Dog Bite Claim For Free
At Jones & Swanson, we’re not like the large law firms you see advertised on TV. We’re a smaller firm by choice, which allows us to provide personalized service and attention to every individual we work with.
Our attorneys, Andrew W. Jones, M. Chase Swanson, and Rutledge W. Jones, are committed to your success and will work tirelessly to win your case. Our lawyers are leaders in the bar association who are renowned for their work.
With our team on your side, you’ll have the compassionate support you need to make it through this difficult time. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a lawyer and learn more about the average dog bite settlement. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
