Dogs are a common sight throughout Moundsville, as many local residents are dedicated pet owners. While the majority of these furry companions are inhabiting fenced yards or accompanying their owners while on a leash, some dogs in Moundsville represent a threat. When a dog becomes aggressive, the results can be catastrophic; serious injuries are common, and some can even be fatal.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries from a dog attack, you may be eligible for compensation. However, proving liability in a dog bite claim isn’t always easy, making an experienced personal injury attorney your best advocate in these situations. A Moundsville dog bite lawyer at Bordas & Bordas could assess your case to determine if negligence is a factor and help you file a claim for the compensation you deserve.
West Virginia has specific laws regarding a pet owner’s liability for dog bites that occur away from the owner’s property. According to West Virginia Code § 19-20-13 (the dog bite statute), any dog owner who allows the dog to run at large is liable for damages (including property damage or injuries) inflicted by the canine while it is loose. In other words, victims do not have to prove the owner was negligent if the dog was unleashed and away from the owner’s property.
Proving liability for a dog attack when a dog is leashed or at home is a little more difficult. In these cases, victims are required to prove that the owner knew the dog was a threat. This typically means establishing that the dog had been violent or had bitten someone at least once in the past, something a Moundsville dog bite attorney could help with.
While dog bites can cause severe injuries that are prone to infection and may require surgical repairs or stitches, getting compensation for injuries is not always easy. Dog owners may not be present at the scene or may be uncooperative about sharing information. In any dog attack case, proving negligence can be complex, and the entire legal process must be completed within a specific time frame.
An experienced dog bite lawyer in Moundsville could help dog attack victims in the following ways:
No two dog attack cases are the same. A skilled attorney with in-depth knowledge about West Virginia dog bite laws can guide victims through the legal process of seeking compensation.
A dog attack is a frightening and traumatic experience. Victims with severe injuries are rarely in a position to consider legal action immediately following the incident. Yet, it is essential to avoid wasting time. If you or a loved one was injured in a dog attack, a Moundsville dog bite lawyer can assess your case to see if negligence is a factor and hold pet owners responsible for their behavior.
At Bordas & Bordas, our dog attack attorneys are familiar with the statutes that apply to each case and how to help victims get fair compensation for their injuries. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.
