York County dog bite attorneys

When you need help and good advice after a York County dog attack

Most people love dogs; in fact, more than 69 million American homes have dogs. But while dogs offer many wonderful benefits, they are animals, and animals can be dangerous. Owners must be responsible for their pets and take precautions to prevent them from harming others.

In Virginia, 380 dog bite claims were made in a recent year. Being bitten by a dog can be traumatic, especially for children. In fact, dog bites can lead to serious injuries and even death. Long-term effects can include infection, scars, disfigurement, and emotional distress.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a York County dog attack, you may be dealing with many different emotions and issues at once. At GibsonSingleton Virginia Accident Attorneys, we will treat you with compassion and work to get you the compensation you deserve to cover the medical expenses and other costs you are facing. Call us today at (804) 413-6777 to find out how we can help you.

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Does Virginia have a “one-bite” rule?

Dog owners in Virginia must take precautions to prevent their pets from hurting people. That means that every dog owner in York County has the duty to know if his dog has displayed aggressive behavior in the past. This is often referred to as the “one-bite” rule, but it doesn’t mean that every dog can bite one person before its owner becomes liable.

Behaviors such as growling, lunging, baring teeth, nipping at people, or chasing after pedestrians and bicycles are all indicators that a dog may be dangerous. If a dog has displayed any type of aggressive behavior in the past, the owner must take care to prevent the dog from hurting someone in the future.

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Dog owners have a duty to protect others

Every resident of Virginia has a duty to use caution to prevent others from being harmed. That means if a dog owner knows her animal is aggressive, she is required to protect others from being attacked.

After all, you and your children have the right go about your business without being attacked by a dangerous animal. Dog owners must obey local leash laws, and make a reasonable effort to ensure their dog isn’t wandering around in public. If an owner allows his dog to roam free, he can be held responsible if it hurts someone.

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What to do after an animal attack in York County

The time after a dog attack can be very difficult, with all the emotions and things to consider. But it’s important to maintain your composure so you can apply first aid and seek medical attention right away.

When you get a chance, take these steps so that your York County personal injury lawyer can file a claim successfully for you:

1. File a police report.
2. Report the incident to Animal Control.
3. Get the dog owner’s contact information.
4. Collect names and contact information from any witnesses, and write down what they say about the attack.
5. Write down your own recollections about the incident.
6. Take photos of the victim’s injuries.
7. Keep records of all medical expenses.
8. Contact a dog bite attorney serving York County.

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We’re here to help

It’s natural to feel scared and disoriented after a York County dog attack, especially if the victim is a child. At GibsonSingleton Virginia Injury Attorneys, we consider it a calling to serve people who have been injured through no fault of their own. We will always treat you with kindness and compassion, and provide you with outstanding legal counsel.

You may be able to recover the costs of your medical expenses, time missed from work, pain, and more. For a FREE consultation to find out all of your options, contact us today by calling (804) 413-6777. And don’t worry: your consultation is free, and we only get paid after we win your case.

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