Dog Bite Lawyer

A dog bite can leave lasting trauma, regardless of the breed’s size. Even small dogs possess jaws capable of causing severe injuries, leading to substantial medical expenses. The only way to offset these costs is through compensation from the dog owners. At Lowell “The Hammer” Stanley, we assist dog-bite victims in filing lawsuits and securing meaningful settlements. Our experienced legal team offers the best dog bite lawyers to help you obtain compensation for your injuries and their life-altering consequences.

Dog bites, particularly from larger breeds, are powerful enough to break the skin, tear through flesh, and even fracture bones. These attacks can cause serious, lasting injuries that might leave you with permanent scars. If you have been a victim of such a dog bite, pursuing a lawsuit may be the best way to manage steep medical expenses. In 2023, US insurers paid over $1.11 billion in dog-related injury claims. A dog bite lawyer can secure substantial compensation for you, depending on the severity of the injury and state laws.

How much can you expect in dog bite settlements?

Dog-related injury claims have seen a significant rise in recent years. While the average claim payout in 2022 was $64,555, it decreased to $58,545 in 2023. Notably, almost similar numbers of cases were reported each year. 

These payouts only tell half the story. Many dog bites go unreported, and few dog owners are well-informed about their responsibilities. Depending on various factors, dog bite claims can range from $15,000 to several thousand dollars. Key factors include the severity of the injury, the dog’s breed, bite force, and the victim’s likelihood and timeline for full recovery. Additionally, state laws on dog bites can impact settlement amounts. Many insurance companies attempt to settle claims unfairly, offering lower payouts. They often make quick offers after the incident, misleading victims into believing it’s the best they can get. 

A skilled and experienced dog bite lawyer can help you with meaningful compensation. We understand the common insurance tactics and our legal team will fight on your behalf for the right amount.

What are the factors that impact dog bite settlement amounts?

There are several common factors that play a crucial role in deciding settlements. 

Severity

The first and most important factor will be the nature of your injuries. If you are a dog bite victim of severe injuries to integral parts of your body, then your settlement amount will be very high. That’s why dog bites from small dog breeds often have lower payouts. 

Every detail is considered, like how long it will take to heal, the dog’s breed, bite force, and the long-term consequences from the attack. We come across many victims with severe dog bites on the face. They are usually highly compensated as compared to someone with a minor bite on the hand, arm, or leg. 

Financial Loss

From emergency medical care to a full recovery, victims have to bear a lot of financial burden. Expenses of procedures like reconstructive plastic surgeries can leave you struggling financially. Moreover, severe injuries can impact your working abilities, resulting in a lower earning capacity. Victims of a dog bite injury may face financial struggle, which becomes a huge factor in determining your settlements.

Non-Economic Loss

Dog bite victims can also file claims for emotional distress, loss of quality of life, and pain and suffering. These non-economic losses vary from case to case. If the incident has left a mental impact, a dog bite lawyer can help you secure compensation for that as well. 

Wrongful Death

In the last decade, every year an estimated 43 people have died due to a dog attack. There’s nothing bigger than losing a life. Losing a loved one due to dog-related injuries can be devastating. An expert dog bite lawyer can fight for your loss and seek compensation. Wrongful death claims will include everything from funeral expenses to the mental torment you face.

State Laws

Most states have laws specified for owners who fail to “confine and control” their dogs. While some states have outlined strict rules for such injuries, others compensate based on liability laws. An expert dog bite lawyer from your state will know the legalities for getting you reasonable compensation. 

How a Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help?

Given that insurance companies will come with unfairly low offers, a dog bite lawyer can fight for what you deserve. At Lowell “The Hammer” Stanley Law Group, we understand the tragic and traumatic experience of a dog bite. Let us handle the legal complexities and maximize your settlement. 

  • We will review your case during the initial consultation. 
  • We will conduct a detailed investigation to collect evidence and determine your legal options. 
  • We will analyze the local state laws.
  • We will work to negotiate a dog bite settlement and consult with you on accepting a fair offer.
  • We will fight in court for you if you don’t receive a fair settlement amount. 

With 30+ years of experience, The Hammer has helped many dog bite victims. Contact us now if you or any of your loved ones have sustained a severe injury due to a dog attack.

Get the Hammer on Your Side

If you were injured in a dog attack, Lowell Stanley can help you get the money you need to get better—but we can’t start working on your claim until we hear from you. Contact us now. We help dog bite victims throughout Virginia, including Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads, Williamsburg, and surrounding areas.

Your initial consultation with us is free, and you won’t owe us a cent unless we get money for you. So why let your rights go unprotected? Call us at (757) 459-CASH or fill out our free form and get The Hammer on your side today.