Most dog-bite disputes are settled out-of-court. Both the victims and the insurance companies will try to make a settlement before the case goes to court. The litigation process can be really hectic and time-consuming. Also, you will have to spend a huge amount for completing the legal procedures and hiring a dog attack lawyer. So most people try to avoid these hassles by preferring to go for out-of-court dog bite settlement.
Settling The Case In Small Claims Court
If your losses are minor and the amount is small, then you can file a claim in the small claims court. This will help to settle the case easily and quickly. Also, the procedures associated with filing a case in the small claims court is simple so that you can complete them even without the help of an attorney.
If you have strong evidence to prove that the negligence of the dog owner led to the dog attack and your injuries, then you won’t need the help of a dog bite lawyer. Additionally, if you have witness statements to support your claims, then you are good to go, as the court will grant you the compensation you deserve.
When Do You Need A Dog Attack Lawyer?
All the dog bite settlements are not always easy. There can be a lot of complications you need to face when filing a lawsuit and claiming compensation. In this situation, it is better to seek the help of a dog bite lawyer, as he can help to deal with different complications associated with your case.
There can be different circumstances when you will need the help of an attorney and some of them are listed below:
If You Have Severe Injuries
Sometimes, the dog attack can lead to severe injuries that can adversely affect your normal living. You might even suffer from permanent disabilities because of a dog attack. In this case, you have the right to get high compensation. Hence, you won’t be able to settle it in the small claims court. So it is better to hire a dog bite lawyer in this case, as he can help with completing different legal procedures associated with the case.
If You Do Not Have Enough Evidence
If there is not enough evidence to prove that the negligence of the dog owner resulted in the dog attack, then there is a great possibility for the court and the insurance companies to deny your claim.
Hiring an attorney can be useful in this situation too, as he can help with establishing the liability of the owner even if there is not much evidence to support your case.
