Staunton Dog Bite Injury Attorney
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With over 25 years of experience, attorney Vaden Warren has tried more than 100 personal injury cases and is ready to get started with your claim right away.
Call for a Free Case EvaluationExperienced Dog Bite Injury Lawyers in Staunton, Virginia
When kept under control, dogs can be friendly companions. However, they can also attack strangers and cause severe wounds when let loose in public. All dog owners are responsible for taking appropriate measures to prevent these situations.
If you were attacked by someone else’s pet, a Staunton dog bite lawyer could inform you of your legal rights. You may be able to collect compensation for your damages. Reach out to The Warren Firm today to start working with a skilled personal injury attorney.
The Responsibility of Pet Owners in Staunton
Both state and local laws mandate that dog owners take reasonable action to restrain their pets and keep the public safe. Under the Code of Virginia Annotated § 3.2-6538 and the Staunton City Code § 6.10.190, it is illegal to allow a dog to run at large, without a leash. If an owner walks his or her dog off-leash, and it runs away and bites someone, that person may suffer criminal and civil consequences.
A dog owner can be held liable in civil court the first time their pets bite someone. This law applies if the owner knew or should have known their dog posed a danger to others. However, if the owner violated the state or local laws, that may be enough to prove negligence.
Proving liability is one of the most important aspects of an accident claim. A local attorney could work with you to establish the negligence of an owner after a dog bit.
Contributory Negligence Laws
In a civil suit, the defendant may attempt to place some of the blame on the injured person. The state operates under contributory negligence laws, meaning any plaintiffs who are partially responsible for their damages are barred from compensation.
This rule may be enforced in instances of trespassing. For example, an individual who is bitten while on the dog owner’s property without permission may not be able to pursue damages.
Further, provoking an animal may cause it to attack. If a person is proven to have incited violence by taunting the dog, he or she could also be barred from recovering damages.
Any ruling of partial fault could seriously hinder a plaintiff’s chances of obtaining compensation. A lawyer who focuses on dog bite cases could prepare a strong argument to rid you of any blame.
I have been a client of Mr. Warren since 2003. At that time, I was involved in a motor vehicle accident and Mr. Warren represented me for my injuries. He was very professional with his help during my time of need and brought settlement for my injuries to a close quickly, and I would highly recommend him to all my friends.
Mr. Warren took my slip and fall case and won! Mr. Warren was always there to answer my questions. He came to my home to talk about my case with me because I could not come to his office. I have the utmost respect for him and his secretary. Mr. Warren is a great lawyer.
My experience working with [Vaden Warren] was very nice and helpful. I thank you so much for what you did for me! If I ever need you I will contact you. it was nice to meet you and call you when I needed to. Thanks again!
Words cannot express how much [we] appreciate everything you have done for us over the past three and a half years. I never imagined we would be blessed with an attorney like you. You helped make a very hard time easier to bear.
I want to thank you for being there for me in my time of need – when I was injured in an [automobile] accident back in 2007. It has been two years, and I am doing well and am back at work. You are a very good attorney. You will be there for your client. If a person gets in an accident, you are the attorney to call.
Time Limit for Filing a Dog Bite Claim
Injured parties may also lose the opportunity to recover damages if they wait too long to file a claim. Under Va. Code Ann. § 8.01-243(A), plaintiffs must raise their claims within two years of the incident or risk having their cases thrown out altogether. A diligent dog bite lawyer could manage any deadlines related to your claim to protect your right to recovery.
Get in Touch with a Staunton Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog bites can cause severe injuries and potential infection. If you have been bitten by a dog, you should seek medical care. Once you have addressed your injuries, consider taking legal action against those responsible.
Whether you wish to negotiate a settlement or file your case in court, a Staunton dog bite lawyer could advocate for you. Call The Warren Firm today to schedule a consultation with a dedicated personal injury attorney.
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