Victims of a dog bite or attack face years in recovery, both from the physical and emotional damage these incidents can cause. As your Charleston, WV personal injury attorney, we will do our very best to make them pay for your losses.
When you have injuries, turn to Salango Law and discuss your case with an experienced and proven Charleston, WV dog bite attorney — call (304) 342-0512 today.
Why Choose Salango Law for Your Dog Bite Accident
Working with our Charleston, WV dog bite attorney opens the door for you to receive fair treatment. We hold insurance companies accountable and fight for victims who are often faced with significant losses and accusations.
With decades of experience, our award-winning attorney will gather data and insight into your case. We will build your claim, negotiate fair compensation, and hold those who hurt you accountable to the fullest level under the law. Having recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in compensation for our clients, you can trust Salango Law with your case.
West Virginia Dog Bite Statute
Under West Virginia’s dog bite statute §19-20-13, dog owners or those controlling them must keep the dog leashed at all times. The owner could be liable for damages caused by a dog running at large. This is strict liability, meaning the owner is automatically at fault and victims do not have to prove negligence.
If the dog was under the owner’s control and caused a bite, the one-bite rule applies. That means that, to hold the owner liable, the dog must demonstrate a prior history of risk. It can be hard to hold an owner responsible in many of these cases.
What You Should Do After a Dog Bite Occurs
If a dog attacks or bites you, prioritize your health and well-being in all matters. That means avoiding the risk and seeking medical care. If possible, also follow these steps:
- Report the injury to the dog’s owner or try to locate who the owner is.
- If there is a threat to the public or yourself, call 911 to report your need for help.
- Document the scene of the accident with photos and video, showing your injuries and the dog in question, if possible.
- Ask any witnesses who saw what occurred to provide you with their name and contact information.
- File a police report if the dog was not leashed after seeking medical care.
Do not hesitate to speak to our Charleston, WV premises liability attorney if you have serious injuries and losses. We can handle the insurance company and the owner, and make them pay for the losses they caused you.
Potential Complications from Dog Bite Accidents
A dog bite is a serious injury that you should take seriously in all situations. Doing so protects your health and well-being. Some of the potential complications that come from these accidents include:
- Infection, bacteria like Pasteurella, MRSA, and Capnocytophaga are commonly related to dog bites
- Broken bones and head injuries from falls
- Lacerations and disfigurement
You have injuries and losses. You have the right to compensation for them, which is why you need an experienced dog bite lawyer on your side.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Dog Bite Attorney
Call Salango Law to discuss your case with a Charleston, WV dog bite lawyer. We offer free consultations as we fight to ensure you receive fair compensation.