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We all love dogs very much. Perhaps you have a dog of your own and love it as much as another person. Unfortunately, dog bites as a result of poor ownership and/or dangerous propensities of certain breeds are common occurrences, and the legal implications surrounding such incidents can be complex. Pittsburgh personal injury attorney Bernie Tully sheds light on the various aspects of dog bite cases in this comprehensive guide.
Holding Irresponsible Owners Accountable
Sometimes there are dog bite cases where dog owners demonstrate irresponsibility and should not own pets. Negligence arises from owners failing to provide proper care, allowing their dogs to roam freely on the streets, leading to unfortunate incidents of people being bitten. For example, in a previous dog bite case, there was a tragic incident where a family member’s dog severely bit an 8-year-old girl, resulting in permanent ghastly scars above her eye.
Each dog bite case is unique, and the key consideration is how to navigate such situations. The primary concern is whether the dog owner has insurance, as insurance companies typically cover major dog bite cases. In addition, determining dog ownership can be challenging, especially when bites occur on the street, where the owner may not readily accept responsibility.
Factors Influencing Case Value
The second crucial aspect in dog bite cases revolves around the age and gender of the victim, presenting distinct considerations for evaluating the value of each case.
Consider this scenario: a 55-year-old married man sustains a severe scar on his arm from a dog bite. The value of his case may not be comparable to that of another individual. Now, imagine a 13-year-old girl in the same situation—bitten on the arm with an identical number of stitches and scars. Which case merits a higher valuation?
Surprisingly, studies exist on this very matter, and I can aid in navigating these nuances. As a general rule, scars on women tend to carry a significantly higher monetary value than those on men. The location of the dog bite on the victim’s body is also a substantial factor. For instance, an unmarried 19-year-old girl with severe facial scars from a dog bite may command a higher valuation for her injuries compared to a 55-year-old married man.
Why? Juries might perceive the married man’s situation differently, assuming his marital status diminishes the impact of the injuries. Conversely, they may empathize more with an unmarried female bearing horrific scars.
The insurance company involved is another critical factor. Certain companies, like Allstate, take dog bite cases seriously, while others may not. This underscores the importance of having an attorney experienced in handling dog bite cases, as they possess insights into what the insurance company is likely to offer.
Lastly, a recent development in dog bite cases involves the possibility of victims receiving punitive damages. If the owner had prior knowledge of the dog’s vicious nature and failed to take precautions, a Common Pleas Judge ruled that punitive damages can be sought. This ruling becomes pivotal as punitive damages can significantly impact the overall compensation in a jury verdict or settlement.
Dog Bit Cases
While this information is not aimed at responsible dog owners, it focuses on individuals who exhibit irresponsibility in ensuring their dogs’ safety. For individuals seeking guidance on dog bite cases, The Tully and Tully Law Firm offers a wealth of insights and experience. If you have been a victim of a dog bite, do not hesitate to reach out for a free evaluation of your case. Understanding the complexities involved is crucial for pursuing the justice and compensation you deserve.
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Bernard Tully Allegheny Dog Bite Lawyer. Phone: 412-281-8700 and 1-800-518-005
