Richmond Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Skilled Dog Bite Injury Lawyers Based in Richmond, Virginia

Whether you are visiting a friend or family member or just stepping out for a walk, it can be difficult to predict a dog's behavior. When a dog snaps unexpectedly, you could be paid for any damages you suffered in the attack. To learn more about your options for compensation, reach out to a Richmond, VA dog bite injury lawyer.

At Merrick Brock, PLLC, we know that dog attacks can have traumatic effects on victims. We take decisive action in these kinds of injury claims, securing evidence early on to help build a case against the dog's owner. We have years of experience dealing with insurance companies, allowing us to come up with comprehensive strategies ahead of negotiation.

When Can You Hold a Dog Owner Liable for Damages in Virginia?

Virginia generally follows what is known as the one-bite rule, meaning a dog owner is typically only held liable for a bite if they knew, or reasonably should have known, that the dog had dangerous tendencies before the attack occurred. Evidence of a prior bite, a history of aggressive behavior, growling or lunging at people, or warnings from neighbors or veterinarians about the dog's temperament can all help establish this kind of prior knowledge on the owner's part.

Liability is not limited strictly to cases involving a prior bite, however. An owner can also be held responsible under ordinary negligence principles if their careless conduct led to the attack, even without proof the dog had bitten before. This can include violating a local leash law, failing to secure a fence or gate, ignoring posted warnings about a dangerous dog, or allowing a dog to roam freely in an area where it could encounter people.

A full investigation into the owner's knowledge of the dog's behavior and their handling of the animal is often necessary to determine which theory of liability applies. In some cases, both may be argued together to bolster a claim.

How Virginia's Contributory Negligence Rule Affects Dog Bite Claims

Virginia's contributory negligence rule can significantly affect the outcome of a dog bite claim. If you are found to bear even a small percentage of fault for the incident, such as approaching an unfamiliar dog in a way that could be seen as provoking it, you can be denied payment altogether.

This makes it especially important to gather clear evidence showing that you did not provoke the dog and that the attack resulted from the owner's negligence or the dog's known dangerous propensities. Witness statements, animal control reports, and any history of complaints against the dog can all help counter an insurer's argument that you share fault for the incident, particularly when the encounter happened quickly and without any real warning.

How Much Is a Dog Bite Claim Worth in Virginia?

The monetary value of a dog bite claim can be adjusted according to several specific factors. Compensable losses in a dog bite claim include:

• The severity of the physical injury, including puncture wounds, lacerations, and nerve or tissue damage
• The medical treatment required, from emergency care through any reconstructive surgery
• Any scarring or disfigurement, particularly in cases involving the face or hands
• The psychological impact, including fear of dogs or symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress
• Any lost wages if the injury or related treatment kept you from working

A full evaluation of your damages should account for both the physical injury and the lasting emotional effects an attack can leave behind, particularly for young children who may carry a fear of dogs well into adulthood. Property damage, such as torn clothing, should also be included, even though it typically represents a small portion of the overall claim.

Contact Our Richmond Dog Bite Injury Lawyers Today

A dog bite can leave you with serious physical and emotional scars, especially when the attack was sudden and preventable. At Merrick Brock, PLLC, we investigate the dog owner's history and conduct to build a strong claim on your behalf. Call 804-500-9796 or contact our Richmond, VA dog bite injury attorneys to schedule a free case review.