Every year there are cases of people bitten by dogs, and when that happens, victims are entitled to compensation by the pet owners. However, pursuing a claim will not be a walk in the park since the pet owner and their insurance company may claim that you are partly to blame. For example, they may say that you were trespassing on their property or that something you did provoked the dog.

However, your personal injury attorney can do their level best to ensure that you are fully compensated for all injuries and damages. Below are various ways you could be compensated after a dog bite.

1. Compensation for Medical Bills

Before you even contact a personal injury lawyer, your priority should be to seek medical attention. During treatment, you may have to undergo physical therapy and psychological treatment to fully recover, depending on the injuries. So, the court has to consider all that when determining how much the dog owner should compensate you. 

In addition, if you have other existing health issues that worsened due to the dog bite, the compensation amount may increase. For example, there are cases where dogs have pushed over an older adult with pre-existing back problems that got worse after the attack.

2. Compensations for the Pain and Suffering

Dog bites can result in drastic lifestyle changes, making it challenging to handle routine activities without help. That can also lead to emotional pain. Still, there is the chance of developing a phobia of dogs, affecting your social life. You may even find it hard to sleep or become depressed and anxious. Some people have even suffered from post-traumatic stress (PTSD). Based on the level of pain and suffering, your personal injury attorney will ensure that you are well-compensated.

3. Compensation for Lost Income

You may have to take some time off from work to recover fully. Despite that, you are still responsible for all the medical bills until the case goes to court and the pet owner is ordered to pay for the damage. Fortunately, you can recover all the money you have lost while in the hospital, including what you could be earning from work.

4. Compensation for Loss of Consortium

Dog bites can limit your mobility and efficiency in everything you used to do, including intimacy with your spouse, and so you should be compensated for that too. The court might also consider how the bite could affect the victim and their child. Therefore, your lawyer could also argue this point to fight for your rights.

If a dog has attacked you or a loved one, you should seek legal help through a personal injury attorney. Once the lawyer takes up your case, they will conduct all investigations and find the evidence needed to get you compensated.

Contact a personal injury attorney for more information.