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Seth Carroll - Partner at Commonwealth Law Group
Colonial Heights Dog Bite Attorney

 Dog Bite Attorney in Colonial Heights

There are a lot of outdoor attractions in Colonial Heights. Most adventure lovers will find no room for complaint between the multiple parks, rivers, and trails. Naturally, this also makes the area a great place for pet owners. In fact, this part of Virginia is home to a number of off-leash dog parks and facilities. 

Of course, an off-leash situation can quickly get out of hand when an owner is negligent or worse. If you have been bit by a dog in Colonial Heights, you know that the experience can be both frightening and traumatic. You may even be left with a pile of medical bills and the need to request time off of work.

When that happens, don’t leave your case in the hands of someone inexperienced. Turn to Commonwealth Law Group for thorough and professional help from dog bite attorneys. We’ll make sure to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions.

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The Types of Damages You Can Recover After a Dog Bite

A dog bite might not sound like a devastating injury. Unfortunately, it can be quite traumatic — both physically and emotionally. After a dog attack, you will likely need to visit an emergency room or walk-in clinic. Over time, you could face mounting medical bills, chronic pain, and even PTSD.

Naturally, you may wonder whether you deserve compensation for these damages. Here’s a list of what you can claim with the help of dog bite lawyers:

  • Medical expenses, including ambulance fees, surgery costs, medication, etc.
  • Lost wages/income
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Property damage, including clothes, shoes, bicycles, etc.

A dog bite injury lawyer from Commonwealth Law Group can tell you more. 

Identifying “Dangerous” Animals Under the Law

In Virginia, dogs with a history of harming or killing other pets are legally designated as “dangerous.” This means the owner has a higher duty to protect the public from the animal.

If the dog that attacked you was previously registered by police or animal control personnel, this could help your case. Our attorney for dog bites can look into the records and help you decide whether to use this information as evidence. 

What Happens After Multiple Attacks from the Same Animal?

Unfortunately, a dangerous animal will sometimes not stop at one victim. If the dog that bit you has a history of biting other humans or goes on to bite another person, that animal will be confiscated by the county and euthanized.

This can also affect your lawsuit or settlement. If a dog bites you more than once, you could be entitled to more compensation. Search online for a “dog bite lawyer near me” to learn more about your options.

The Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Lawsuits

Under Virginia law, there is a statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including those involving dog bites. Essentially, you have two years to file a claim against the dog’s owner. 

If you fail to file your claim within this time frame, you will be unable to pursue compensation — no matter how severe your injuries are. For this reason, it’s wise to search for “dog bite attorneys near me” early on in the process.

FAQs

Commonwealth Law Group has helped countless dog bite victims just like you. In our years of service, we have heard just about every question related to this area of law that you can think of. Below, we’ve outlined some of the most frequently asked questions we hear from clients in your shoes:

What Should I Do If I’ve Been Bitten by a Dog?

One of the greatest threats after a dog attack is the risk of infection. For this reason, you’ll want to seek immediate medical care to have the wound washed and bandaged. 

If you notice any signs of infection in the days and weeks afterward, make another visit to the doctor. After that, give our dog bite lawyers a call to learn more about your legal options.

What If the Dog Was a Police Animal?

If a police officer misuses his animal's strength, force, and training, you could be left with serious injuries. When that happens, you may turn to the government or municipality agency responsible for the officer and his canine for compensation. 

Make sure to call Commonwealth Law Group beforehand, as you will need extensive legal support throughout the process.

How Can I Properly Record the Incident?

The success of your lawsuit will hinge entirely on the amount of evidence you have to prove your case. To set yourself up for success, you should thoroughly document the injury and attack as best you can. 

Take photographs of the scene, your wounds, and other important details. And make sure to file a police report for a third-party accounting of the events that took place.

What Kinds of Injuries Can Happen in a Dog Attack?

Naturally, the most common injuries suffered by dog bite victims are gashes, cuts, and lacerations. However, it is also possible for a victim to experience nerve damage, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and more. That’s why it is so important for you to seek medical care after the attack.

Turn to Commonwealth Law Group When You Need a Dog Bite Attorney

At Commonwealth Law Group, we have seen firsthand the damage a dog bite can cause. We want you to have the support and guidance you need at this difficult time. 

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with our team so we can start moving forward on your case.

“Great law group. Everyone was kind and down to earth. Made me feel like I was their only client. Very attentive to me and my case.”

Karen Jacobs

If you have been injured at work or through the negligence of another individual or entity, contact us at (804) 999-9999 or or use the form below to connect with our legal team. We will fight to get you the justice you deserve.