DOG ATTACKS OR BITES

Most dog attack cases involved actual dog bites that leave scars and other injuries to the dog bite victim. However, individuals can also recover for injuries in dog attack cases where the dog bite victim was not bit by an animal.

To avoid getting attacked by a dog, there are a number of safety precautions you should utilize. These safety tips include:

• Never approach any dog while it is eating, sleeping or caring for puppies
• Never try to pet a dog until you let it see you and smell you first
• Never leave children alone with a dog
• Never be aggressive with a dog, stare it in the eye, or run from it
• If a dog knocks you down, roll into a ball to protect yourself
• Stay calm and do not further aggravate the dog or get in an argument with the dog owner
• Identify the breed and the dog
• Seek medical attention immediately
• File a police report or incident report with local authorities or animal control
• Don't make any recorded or written statements to the dog owner or any insurance company

The main defence in Ontario dog bite cases is provocation. Provocation does not have to be intentional to be used as a defence, meaning the dog owner can still use this defence even if the dog bite victim did not intend to provoke the animal. However, this defence is limited in scope and is successful in only certain situations.

Another defence is dog bite cases is trespassing. The plaintiff cannot trespass on the dog owner's property at the time of the attack.

The amount of compensation you can expect from a dog bite attack depends on the severity of the injuries, the level of scarring, if the injuries are permanent, the amount of medical bills, wage loss and other factors. The amount of the homeowner's insurance to dog owner carries is also an important factor.

If you are injured because of a dog bite or dog attack, the dog owner can be held responsible for paying money damages for such things as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, scarring and disfigurement, emotional distress and embarrassment.

There are time limits in being a dog attack case. This is called the statute of limitations so it is important to contact a lawyer and protect your legal rights.

Enzo DiGioia and The Legal Solution Professional Corporation team are dog bite experts. We have represented dog bite victims for over 15 years. It is our goal to answer any questions you have and fight for all the benefits and compensation you are entitled to under the law.

And remember, you pay no fees until we settle your dog bite case. Let us help you. Call Enzo and The Legal Solution team at 519-252-6969.