Pickering Dog Bite Lawyer
As owners, we praise dogs for their gentle demeanours and protective nature. However, sometimes these animals can attack others. Dog attacks may result in significant injuries, pain, mental anguish, or even loss of life for the injured person. Dog bite injury victims have rights under Ontario law that allows you to initiate a lawsuit against a dog’s owner for financial compensation.
If you sustained physical injuries after a dog bite, we recommend discussing the details with a dog bite lawyer serving Pickering. The legal team at Preszler Injury Lawyers is here to help you on the road to recovery. Contact our office today at 1-800-JUSTICE for a free initial consultation.
The Dog Owners’ Liability Act (DOLA) Protects Victims in Ontario
The Dog Owners’ Liability Act (DOLA) is a set of laws that detail an owner’s responsibilities as it relates to their dog. DOLA assigns strict liability to the dog’s owner for damages resulting from a bite or attack. Under DOLA, you do not have to prove negligence to proceed with your claim.
Instead, you and your personal injury lawyer must demonstrate the following elements:
- The person you are suing is the lawful owner of the dog.
- The dog that bit or attacked you subsequently caused bodily harm.
- You sustained financial losses as a result of your injuries.
While you do not need to demonstrate negligence on behalf of the owner, a civil court judge may consider the role you played in the attack, if any. A dog bite lawyer serving Pickering may help you determine your options for seeking compensation for your injuries.
Key Points From DOLA That May Affect Your Dog Bite Case
In addition to establishing negligence guidelines, DOLA‘s statute gives key points that may influence your case. They include:
- Liability: Dog owners assume complete responsibility for their dog.
- Damages: Bite victims may file a civil claim in court for financial losses.
- Protection: Owners are not liable for injuries inflicted upon intruders.
- Effective control: A civil court may order that the dog be restrained by a muzzle or leash.
- Precaution: Dog owners must take necessary measures to prevent their dogs from biting people.
Dog owners who fail to properly care for their dogs per DOLA’s statute may face criminal charges as well as civil litigation.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite or Attack in Pickering
The moments following your attack are critical to your health and safety. Your chosen actions in the aftermath may affect your ability to prove your case and subsequently claim monetary compensation against the dog’s owner.
After your release from the hospital, make sure you take the following steps:
- Follow your doctor’s medical advice as prescribed.
- Keep copies of bills, receipts, and invoices related to your injury’s expenses.
- Do not issue a formal statement to insurance companies or opposing parties.
- Keep a journal that describes the day of the attack and your feelings about it.
If you sustained injuries from a dog bite or attack, we encourage you to contact the legal team at Preszler Injury Lawyers. We may help you manage the elements of your claim, including evidence gathering and negotiations with insurance adjusters or opposing counsel. Reach out to us for a free initial consultation by calling 1-800-JUSTICE.
Potential Compensation for Dog Bite Victims
Dog bite injury victims have the right to file a claim against the dog’s owner for compensation related to their financial losses. Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be able to petition the court for the following types of compensation related to your injuries:
- Past, current, and future medical expenses
- Costs of prescriptions, prosthetics, or devices
- Travel expenses to attend doctor’s appointments
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Psychiatric or psychological therapy
- Lost wages and work benefits
- Pain, suffering, and mental anguish
- Scarring and disfigurement
Wrongful Death Related to a Dog Bite
In a severe dog attack that results in the wrongful death of your loved one, the dog’s owner may face charges of criminal negligence. In a criminal case of this nature, the courts will pursue charges against the dog’s owner rather than the victim.
While no amount of money can take back the events that unfolded, monetary compensation may defray the family’s costs during this difficult time. It also sends a broader message throughout the community that aggressive dogs are not allowed to threaten public safety.
How a Dog Bite Lawyer Serving Pickering May Be Able to Help
Dog bite cases are relatively unique in that your lawyer does not have to prove negligence to have a personal injury claim. Navigating the complexities of the law and negotiating a favourable settlement can be difficult without the assistance of a dog bite lawyer serving Pickering. We may help you manage the other aspects of your case, including:
- Handling communications such as emails, calls, and paperwork with the dog owner, their lawyer, and insurance companies
- Gathering and analyzing eyewitness statements, photographs, medical expenses, and other evidence to support your claim
- Documenting lost wages, earnings, and other employment benefits
- Working with your doctor for a prognosis on your injury
- Negotiating a settlement on your behalf with insurers
- Representing your interests at trial
Call for a Free Initial Consultation With Preszler Injury Lawyers
If you were injured after a dog bite or attack, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact us for a free initial consultation by calling 1-800-JUSTICE. You may have a limited time to act under the Ontario Limitations Act.
