It is not uncommon for Cincinnati residents to keep pets in their homes. In fact, dogs are among the most popular pets due, in part, to the animals’ generally balanced demeanors and loyalty. However, even the calmest dog can turn violent if it feels threatened and when dogs attack the results can be tragic.
News stories from across the country often tell the tales of horrific injuries and even deaths sustained by victims of dog attacks. While, in some cases, the victims of dog attacks may have, in some way, provoked the animals to pursue them, many dog attacks are unprovoked and completely unexpected. While the victim of a dog bite may endure pain, suffering and other long-term damages from their ordeal, they should also know that they have rights when it comes to recovering their losses.
Dog victims can generally sue the owners of the animals that caused their injuries for their losses. Losses can include, but are not limited to, medical bills, lost wages, damages related to property losses and even losses related to the victims’ pain and suffering. Victims may pursue their losses based on the legal theory of negligence, but every dog bite case should be assessed on its own facts and circumstances.
After suffering a dog bite or attack, a victim should seek immediate medical care for an assessment of their condition. Dogs can carry diseases that can be detrimental to humans. Therefore, it is imperative that medical treatment is sought for animal attack victims. Once they have begun to recover, though, victims of dog attacks may want to explore their legal rights to compensation through discussions of their cases with personal injury attorneys in their communities.