Milwaukee Dog Bite Lawsuits Amounts

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Serious Injuries from Dog Attacks

Settlement amounts in dog bite lawsuits vary significantly from case to case. The amount you receive will be largely dependent on the severity of the injuries sustained, where negligence is assigned, and the judgment delivered. Dog bites and attacks can cause significant traumatic injury. According to the CDC, over 850,000 dog bite victims a year require medical attention for their injuries.

Common Injuries following Dog Attacks include:

  • Scratching and Bruising
  • Torn or Shredded Skin
  • Fractures
  • Puncture Wounds
  • Deep Cuts and Lacerations
  • Dislocated Joints

If you’ve been the victim of a dog bite, it’s important to know the six levels of dog bites in order to understand and express the seriousness of the bite.

Level 1

Dog is acting aggressively, snapping, air-biting, but no actual contact

Level 2

There is tooth contact on skin, but no punctures

Level 3

Skin is shallowly punctured with one or multiple bites

Level 4

Single bite with deep punctures or lacerations

Level 5

Multiple bite attack with deep punctures, lacerations or structural damage

Level 6

Death of the victim

Minor injuries are classified as surface-level scratches and puncture wounds, for which you may have less influence to seek compensation for pain and suffering. Level 1 to Level 3 bites are usually considered minor injuries.

Severe injuries are classified as physical disfigurements such as large cuts, deep puncture wounds, fractured or broken bones and other intense structural damage. These injuries entitle you to a higher level of compensation, but your case will also likely take longer in order to display the full extent of the damages. Level 4 to Level 5 dog bites are considered serious, life-threatening injuries. If your loved one has died from a Level 6 dog bite, call us for help.

Dog bites carry incredible amounts of bacteria. Even if your injuries after a dog bite appear to be minor, it is critical to seek medical attention quickly to reduce the risk of infection and ensure you haven’t suffered any internal injuries. If you are due for a tetanus shot, you may need a booster as quickly as possible after you’re bitten. At Warshafsky Law Firm, we will use our expertise to advise you on your next best course of action to receive the maximum settlement for your injuries.

Dog Attack Statistics (According to the World Animal Foundation)

4.5 Million Nearly 4.5 million people are victims of dog bites in the US each year

1 in 51 in every 5 dog bites becomes infected

70% 70% of dog bites are from unneutered male dogs

77%Pit Bulls and Rottweilers are responsible for 77% of all dog bites

Top 10 dogs responsible for bite attacks annually(yearly average between 2014-2020)

Pit Bulls

3,397BITES

 

Rottweilers

535BITES

 

German Shepherds

113BITES

 

Wolf Dogs

85BITES

 

Huskies

83BITES

 

Boxers

64BITES

 

Great Danes

37BITES

 

Bull Mastiffs

28BITES

 

Doberman Pinschers

23BITES

 

Malamutes

15BITES

 

Have you or someone you love been attacked by a dog in Wisconsin? Call Warshafsky, Milwaukee’s trusted dog bite attorney. We’ll fight big so you can fight back.

How does comparative negligence affect a lawsuit?

If you are the victim of a dog attack and seeking legal action, the owner’s insurance company will likely attempt to prove a level of comparative negligence to diminish the amount of compensation you can receive. They will look to prove you are partially or even fully responsible for the damages.

Trespassing on the dog owner’s property or provoking the dog may constitute proof of negligence on the dog bite victim’s behalf.

If the dog bite victim is judged to be less than 50% negligent, the amount of compensation the victim receives in damages will be reduced by the percentage of which they are found negligent.

Both parties could be considered negligent, at which point, a percentage of negligence will be assigned to both the victim and the dog owner.

If the dog bite victim is judged to be more than 50% negligent, the victim will receive no compensation for damages, even if the dog owner is also negligent.

 

It is absolutely vital that you not admit guilt in any form to the dog owner or the dog owner's insurance company, as they will almost certainly try to use whatever you say against you.

What happens if a dog bite occurs on my property?

If a dog bites someone on your property and you are not the owner of the dog, common-law liability may protect you from negligence charges, ideally preventing a lawsuit. A law governing the standard of care, however, may be a complication. Standard of care requires landowners/occupiers to keep a relatively safe environment for everyone on the premises, including keeping guests safe from possibly dangerous animals.

If a dog bites someone on your property, call your homeowner’s insurance as soon as possible, as some insurance companies will cover dog bites in their policy. Be aware the breed of your dog will be a factor. Some insurance companies will not cover certain breeds, such as Pit Bulls or Rottweilers. Keep in mind, once your insurance has provided coverage for the incident, they may increase your premiums or cease your coverage altogether.

 

Milwaukee Personal Injury Lawsuits Frequently Asked Questions

How long after a dog bite can you sue?

You have three years from the date of the injury to sue for damages.

Can you sue someone if their dog bites your dog?

Yes. If your dog sustains injuries from another dog, you can file a lawsuit.

Are dog bites covered by insurance?

Sometimes. Coverage varies with each company, but many insurance companies will cover dog bites. Factors such as the dog’s breed will influence the policy. If you’re unsure, give your insurance company a call.