Dog Bite Settlement: What You Need to Know to Get Fair Compensation
Discover key insights into dog bite settlements for fair compensation. Learn what victims need to know and take actionable steps to secure your claim today!
There are nearly 90 million dogs in the United States, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Most are friendly, but not all interactions end well.
Every year, thousands of people are injured by dogs. When that happens, knowing your legal rights is key. If you have been attacked, you may be entitled to a dog bite settlement to help cover your medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
At BDIW Law, we help victims across Oklahoma pursue dog bite compensation and hold negligent dog owners accountable. Whether through insurance or a dog bite lawsuit, we work to get you the full amount you deserve.
In this blog post, we will explain how Oklahoma law protects dog bite victims and how our team can help you move forward.
Oklahoma Dog Bite Laws Are on Your Side
First of all, the good news is that Oklahoma has some of the strongest protections in the country for people who are bitten by dogs. The state follows a strict liability rule, which means the dog’s owner is responsible for your injuries, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
You do not need to prove the dog had a history of aggression. You also do not need to show that the owner was negligent. If the bite happened while you were legally on public or private property, the law is generally on your side.
This is different from some other states that follow a one-bite rule, which gives the dog’s owner a free pass the first time their dog attacks someone.
In Oklahoma, victims have a clear path to seek justice. At BDIW Law, we use these laws to build strong cases for our clients. We make sure your rights are protected from the start.
Our Team Is Here To Assist You Every Step Of The Way.
SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYWhat You Can Be Compensated For
A dog bite can lead to serious injuries, both physical and emotional. In Oklahoma, you have the right to seek compensation for the full impact of the attack. Medical expenses are one of the most common types of damages. These can include:
- Emergency room visits
- Stitches
- Surgeries
- Medications
- Follow-up care
- Physical therapy
Lost wages are another major area. If you had to miss work while recovering, you can claim the income you lost. This also includes future earnings if your injuries affect your ability to work long term.
Pain and suffering are also part of your claim. This covers the physical pain, emotional trauma, and lasting effects such as anxiety or scarring.
Our team at BDIW Law works closely with clients to calculate the full value of their claim. We gather the proof needed to show what you’ve gone through and push for a fair outcome that reflects it.
How to Protect Your Case Right Away
The steps you take after a dog bite can make a big difference in your case. First, get medical attention as soon as possible, as even small bites can lead to infection or complications. Medical records also serve as important proof of your injury.
Next, report the incident to local animal control, as this creates an official record and can help prevent future attacks. If possible, take photos of your injuries, the location where the bite happened, and the dog itself. If there were any witnesses, try to get their contact information.
Avoid speaking to the dog owner’s insurance company on your own. They may try to downplay your injuries or offer a low settlement. Instead, contact a lawyer who can protect your rights from the start.
Here at BDIW Law, we help you take the right steps early on. The sooner we’re involved, the better we can position your case for success.
What a Dog Bite Lawyer Does for You
A lawyer plays an important role in helping you recover after a dog bite. At BDIW Law, we handle every part of the legal process so you can focus on healing. We start by investigating the incident, identifying the dog and its owner, and gathering evidence to show what happened, which includes:
- Medical records
- Witness statements
- Any photos or reports
We also calculate the full value of your losses, including medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Once your case is prepared, we deal directly with the insurance company on your behalf. Our goal is to reach a fair settlement without you having to deal with the stress of negotiations.
If the insurance company refuses to cooperate, we are ready to take your case to court. From start to finish, we keep you informed and involved. You don’t pay us unless we win your case.
How Settlements Are Reached
Most dog bite cases are resolved through a settlement rather than going to court. Once you hire a lawyer, the first step is to gather all the evidence needed to support your claim.
This includes medical bills, proof of lost wages, and documentation of your pain and suffering. Your lawyer will then send a demand letter to the dog owner’s insurance company outlining what you’re owed.
From there, the insurance company may respond with a counteroffer. Your lawyer will handle these negotiations and keep you updated at every step. If the insurance company makes a fair offer, you can accept it and close the case without going to trial.
However, if the offer is too low, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit. This puts pressure on the insurance company and can lead to a better result. We always aim to reach the best possible outcome for our clients.
What to Know About Dog Bite Settlement
So, if you’ve been injured by a dog, don’t wait to take action. A dog bite settlement can help you recover the costs of medical care, lost income, and emotional distress. At BDIW Law, we guide you through the dog bite claim process from start to finish, making sure your rights are protected every step of the way.
Our team has helped clients across Oklahoma get the compensation they deserve. We offer free consultations and only get paid if we win your case. Contact us to get started: call (866) 257-7646 or fill out our online form now.
