Las Vegas Dog Bite Lawyer

While you are technically not required to retain the services of a lawyer for a dog bite claim in Las Vegas, it is definitely a recommended action, especially if your injuries are serious, permanent, or expensive to treat. A dog bite attorney at Benson & Bingham Injury Law will steer you through the complex legal landscape and deal with the insurance companies so that you receive maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Dog bite lawsuits can be complicated; they usually involve negligence or some sort of violation of a local law. Insurance companies may also want to lowball you with their offers. We’re here to protect your rights and fight for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.

At Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay us nothing unless we win your case. Our goal is to make this process as painless and smooth as possible, so that you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal matters. Begin by reaching out to our injury lawyers for your complimentary initial case review and consultation!

Yes, a dog’s owner can indeed be held responsible for a dog bite if it can be shown that they were negligent or broke local laws. In Nevada, dog owners are accountable for their pets’ actions, especially if the dog has a history of aggressive behavior or if the owner didn’t take the necessary steps to keep the dog properly restrained. For instance, if the dog was running around off-leash in a public space or if the owner ignored past warning signs, they could be held liable for any injuries the victim suffers. Moreover, if the dog is classified as dangerous or vicious under Nevada law, the owner might face even tougher consequences.

Dog bite injuries vary in seriousness from minor scrapes and lacerations to more serious wounds that may require surgical operations and therapy. There are various kinds of injuries for which victims can seek compensation, including:

• Physical Injuries: Dog bites can cause serious physical injuries, ranging from deep cuts and puncture wounds to nerve damage and fractures, even infection from the actual bite.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Scarring and disfigurement are also realistic concerns; any time a dog’s teeth break through the skin, there is a good chance the victim will show noticeable scarring. In the worst cases, it can result in permanent disfigurement.
• Psychological and Emotional Distress: On the psychological side, many victims develop trauma, PTSD, or anxiety about dogs after being bitten, especially if the dog was of a large or aggressive breed.
• Infections: Dog bites can introduce harmful bacteria from the dog’s mouth, leading to infections that may require extensive medical treatment to address.
• Loss of Function: A dog bite may sometimes result in nerve damage, impairment of mobility, or even amputation, causing permanent or long-term disability.

If your dog bite injuries are considerable or lasting, the attorneys at Benson & Bingham Injury Law will work diligently to help you recover compensation for all your current and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.

In any dog bite case, good evidence is the vital building block to prove where the fault lies and what kind of compensation you are due. Some examples of important evidence we’ve litigated with in the past that should be collected include:

• Medical Records: These documents will help provide a clear picture of your injuries, the treatments you have received, and any possible long-term care you may need.
• Photos of Injuries: It is a good idea to take photos of the dog bite injury as soon as possible. This is strong visual evidence that will help document the extent of the damage.
• Witness Statements: If someone witnessed the attack, then their statements will be highly useful in determining what took place and corroborating the dog’s involvement.
• Animal Control Reports: If animal control was notified about the incident, their reports can provide valuable information regarding the dog’s previous behavior and any history of aggression.
• Police Reports: Sometimes, the police will be involved when a dog bite incident occurs. These reports can often provide important information such as who the owner of the animal was and whether the animal had any prior history of conflict in public.
• History of the Dog: Understanding the dog’s history, including any prior attacks, signs of aggression, or the owner’s failure to follow leash laws, is crucial in proving liability.

Our injury legal team is here to help you in collecting, preserving, and organizing the evidence you will need to build a strong case.

What you do immediately after a dog bite makes a big difference for your personal health and legal situation. Here’s a quick guide on what to do:

• Get Medical Attention: Even if the bite seems tiny, do not neglect to see a doctor. Dog bites can yield serious infections, nerve damage, or deep tissue injuries that can be lasting. If serious, go to the ER, and remember to keep all medical documentation.
• Report the Incident: If an aggressive dog has bitten you, the first thing you need to do is to report that incident to your local animal control or the police. This creates an official record of the attack, which will be vitally important if you later decide to take legal action.
• Document Everything: Take photographs of your injuries, of the dog if possible, and also of your location and surroundings. It’s also a good idea to keep a journal regarding your recovery and changes in your physical and emotional state.
• Witness Information: If there was anyone who witnessed the attack, get their contact information and ask if they would be willing to make an official statement. Their firsthand account of the events can greatly enhance and strengthen the merits of your case.
• Don’t Speak with Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies are often quick to offer a low settlement and may try to pressure you into accepting one, hoping to close out the claim as cheaply as possible. It’s best to avoid engaging with them until you’ve had a chance to consult with a lawyer, as some will not have your best interests at heart.
• Contact Our Attorneys: You should not hesitate to contact our personal injury attorneys with your situation. The sooner you act, the greater your chance of recovering the best possible compensation you deserve.