If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Wisconsin, you may be entitled to pursue compensation. The law states that dog owners are liable for the actions of their pets, so if you were bitten, you can pursue legal action against the owner.
While the process may seem simple, dog bite lawsuits can be complicated and time-consuming. By hiring an experienced dog bite attorney at Buss Law, LLC, you will receive focused attention on your case, particularly regarding premises liability related to animal attacks.
If you've been bitten by someone else's dog, it's important to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. The sooner an attorney can start gathering evidence, including witness statements, the stronger your case will be for pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Reach out to Buss Law, LLC today to schedule a free case evaluation. Attorney Kyle Buss strives to provide legal representation to residents across the state for dog bites and other personal injury claims.
Understanding Dog Bite Accidents in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, dog owners are held strictly liable for their pets, meaning they can be held responsible for any injury their pet causes, regardless of the dog's prior history or the owner's knowledge. According to Chapter 174 of the Wisconsin Statutes, owners are responsible for injuries caused by their dogs if:
The victim was on public property or lawfully on private property
The dog bites or injures the person without provocation
This means that even if a dog has never shown aggression before, the owner can still be held liable for any injury caused by their pet. However, it's important to note that if a person trespasses on private property and is bitten by a dog, the owner may not be held responsible.
Common Injuries from Dog Bites
Dog bites range from minor scratches to severe puncture wounds, leading to infections, nerve damage, or psychological trauma. Some common injuries that may occur from a dog bite include:
Puncture wounds
Nerve damage
Broken bones
Facial scarring
Emotional trauma and anxiety
It's important to seek medical attention immediately after a dog bite, even if the injury seems minor. Dog bites can lead to dangerous infections, such as rabies or tetanus, which require prompt treatment. These attacks may occur in various settings, such as public spaces, private properties, or even within the victim's home, and can take a lasting toll on the victim's physical and mental well-being.
Injured? Don't Fuss, Call Buss!
Potential Compensation Available for Dog Bite Accidents
If you've been bitten by a dog in Wisconsin, there are various types of compensation you may be entitled to pursue through legal action. Understanding these types of compensation is critical to recovering from the physical and emotional challenges that often follow an attack. Some of the common types of compensation include:
MEDICAL EXPENSES: These encompass all costs related to emergency care, surgeries, follow-up treatment, or physical therapy necessary for recovery.
PAIN AND SUFFERING: This compensates for the physical discomfort and emotional distress endured due to the attack, including anxiety, fear, or loss of quality of life.
LOST WAGES Victims may receive repayment for income lost during recovery from injuries, impacting their ability to work.
PROPERTY DAMAGE: Covers costs incurred if personal belongings were damaged during the incident, such as clothing or electronic devices.
DISFIGUREMENT OR DISABILITY: Compensation is offered if the victim is left with permanent scarring or long-term disability as a result of the attack.
The personal injury attorney at Buss Law, LLC strives to comprehensively evaluate each case to help you receive compensation for your losses.
What to Do After a Dog Bite Accident
Taking the correct steps following a dog bite incident is essential to ensure your safety and preserve your right to potential legal action. If you've been bitten by someone else's dog, you should take the following actions:
SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE: Even if your injuries seem minor, consult with a medical professional immediately. Dog bites can lead to significant infections or rabies risk if not properly treated. Keep all medical records following your care.
IDENTIFY THE DOG OWNER: Obtain contact information from the dog's owner. Try to verify whether the dog is up-to-date on vaccinations to assess potential health risks.
REPORT THE INCIDENT: Notify the local animal control authorities of the incident, regardless of the severity. This helps document the situation and makes sure the dog is examined, if necessary.
DOCUMENT THE SCENE: Take photographs of the injuries you sustained, the animal involved, and the surrounding environment. Gather any witness information that might support your claim.
CONSULT WITH AN ATTORNEY: Reach out to a knowledgeable attorney, such as Attorney Kyle Buss, who specializes in personal injury claims related to dog bites. An attorney can provide guidance on the next steps and represent your interests in negotiations or court proceedings.
MAINTAIN RECORDS: Keep detailed notes of all medical treatments, communications with the dog's owner, and any other pertinent documentation. This can strengthen your case and assist in determining potential compensation.
Why Choose Buss Law, LLC?
Buss Law, LLC offers experienced legal representation to dog bite victims throughout Wisconsin. Their client-focused approach emphasizes compassion, individualized legal strategies, and a deep understanding of Wisconsin's personal injury laws. Attorney Kyle Buss understands the intricacies of personal injury law and strives to collaborate closely with his clients to help them pursue the compensation they need.
Dog Bite FAQ
What is the statute of limitations for dog bite claims?
Victims of dog bites have three years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Wisconsin. This time frame requires prompt action to preserve the right to claim damages. Attorney Buss is adept at navigating the intricacies of filing within these deadlines and ensuring no detail is overlooked in assembling a robust case.
Can I sue if a dog bites me on the dog owner's property?
Yes, Wisconsin law holds dog owners strictly liable for damages caused by their pets on private property, regardless of whether the owner knew of the dog’s aggressive tendencies.
If you were lawfully present and without provocation at the time of the attack, you have the right to pursue compensation. It's essential to seek legal representation in such cases, as it can be challenging to prove fault or liability.
What is the role of "Beware of Dog" signs in a dog bite case?
"Beware of the dog" signs can potentially impact a dog bite case in a few ways. If the sign is visible and properly placed, it can serve as evidence that the owner was aware of their dog's potential danger and therefore should have taken precautions to prevent an attack. However, if the sign is not clearly visible or poorly maintained, it may not hold much weight in court.
Additionally, if a person ignores or disregards a "Beware of Dog" sign and subsequently gets bitten, they may be deemed partially at fault for their injuries. This could affect the amount of compensation they receive.
Wisconsin Dog Bite Attorney
Being bitten or attacked by a dog is a traumatic experience that can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial damages. If you have been injured due to a dog bite in Wisconsin, it's essential to understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation.
At Buss Law, LLC, we are dedicated to helping victims of dog bites navigate the legal process and receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation. Located in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, Buss Law proudly extends its services statewide, advocating fiercely for victims' rights and striving for fair compensation.