Do You Need To Hire a Lawyer for a Dog Bite Case?
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, hiring a lawyer can make all the difference in receiving fair compensation. Dog bite cases can be more complicated than they first appear, especially when dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and potential long-term impacts. Here’s how a dog bite lawyer in Boston can help:
Legal Experience and Understanding of Massachusetts Law
Dog bite laws vary by state, and Massachusetts follows a strict liability rule. This means that in most cases the dog owner is responsible for damages caused by their dog, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression. A lawyer who has experience handling Massachusetts dog bite cases will understand how to leverage this law to your advantage.
Proving Liability
Although Massachusetts follows strict liability, the dog owner might still try to argue that you were trespassing or provoking the dog. A lawyer will gather the necessary evidence—such as witness statements, medical reports, and animal control records—to prove that you were not at fault and that the dog owner is liable for your injuries.
Maximizing Compensation
Many dog bite victims are unaware of the full scope of damages they are entitled to claim. A lawyer will ensure you seek compensation not only for immediate medical bills but also for long-term medical care (such as reconstructive surgery), lost wages, emotional trauma, and pain and suffering. If you require ongoing treatment or therapy, a skilled lawyer will factor these future costs into your claim. Our results speak for themselves!
Dealing With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often offer low initial settlements in the hopes that victims will accept a quick payout. These settlements rarely cover the full extent of the victim’s losses. Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring that you don’t settle for less than you deserve. They will also protect you from tactics that could reduce your payout, such as getting you to sign away rights prematurely.
Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary
If the dog owner or their insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, a lawyer can take your case to court. They will handle all the complexities of filing the lawsuit, adhering to Massachusetts’ strict deadlines, and representing you in court to ensure that your voice is heard.
Supporting You Emotionally and Legally
Beyond the legal and financial aspects, a dog bite lawyer can be a supportive guide throughout the process. Recovering from a dog bite can be traumatic, especially if disfigurement or long-term injuries are involved. Your lawyer can alleviate some of this burden by managing the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on healing.
No Upfront Costs
At Jim Glaser Law, we operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t have to pay anything upfront. We only get paid when we win your case, so you can rest assured that we are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome for you.
By hiring an experienced Boston dog bite lawyer, you can navigate the complexities of your case with confidence, knowing that you have a dedicated advocate on your side. At Jim Glaser Law, we are committed to helping you get the justice and compensation you may deserve.
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