Winchester Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

Aggressive Dog Bite Lawyers Protecting Victims of Dog Bites in Winchester, Virginia

When dogs snap without warning, unsuspecting people are put at serious risk of injury. A dog bite can result in mangled limbs or digits, facial scarring, or even infected wounds. If you or somebody you know has been attacked by somebody else's dog, a Winchester personal injury attorney can fight for your right to a full financial remedy.

At Parthemos, Curran, Buelow and Polizzi, PLLC, we represent victims of dog bites and other animal attacks in personal injury claims, breaking down the complex legal processes for our clients and protecting their rights. When you work with our attorneys, we will do everything we can to identify the liable party and hold them accountable for your damages.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Dog Bite Injuries?

In Virginia, different parties can be held liable for injuries caused by a dog. In general, the person who was responsible for handling the dog at the time of the attack is responsible for paying for any damages.

In most cases, this falls to the dog's owner, who pays through their homeowner's insurance. However, liability can also fall to landlords who fail to secure a tenant's dog, veterinarians, or dog walkers.

Is Virginia a "One Bite" State?

Some states have a "one bite" rule with regard to animal attacks, which means that a dog owner generally cannot be held liable for the first time a dog snaps without warning. Virginia adheres to this rule, though you might be relieved to know it is not an absolute defense against any dog bites. If the owner was clearly negligent, such as letting the dog run off-leash, you might still be able to file a claim for compensation.

When Are Dog Bite Claims Denied?

Outside of the one-bite rule, dog owners and handlers have limited defenses to dog bite claims. Your claim may be denied if you deliberately and intentionally provoked a dog by striking it or teasing it. Similarly, if you were attacked while committing a crime against the dog's owner or another person, you are unlikely to receive compensation for your damages.

As with many other premises liability cases, trespassers are afforded little, if any protections in dog bite claims. If you were not lawfully allowed on a property, such as a private residence without an invite or a closed-off scrap yard, you may be barred from taking legal action. If you are not sure whether or not you have grounds to pursue a claim, our attorneys can discuss your options with you.

Damages in a Dog Bite Claim

Depending on the severity of the attack, you could be left with serious damage after a dog bite. In Virginia, you can recover compensation for both economic damages and non-economic damages from animal attacks. You might require extensive surgery and stitches following a dog bite, and in some cases, a full recovery might not be possible.

Our attorneys can argue for a settlement or verdict that compensates you for the loss of your wages or any damage to your earning potential. Additionally, we will advocate for additional compensation for your lasting mental trauma from the attack.

Meet With a Winchester, VA Dog Bite Injury Attorney Today

If you or somebody you care about has been injured in an animal attack, our dog bite lawyers can take legal action on your behalf, fighting for the remedy you deserve. At Parthemos, Curran, Buelow and Polizzi, PLLC, our lawyers have over 120 years of combined experience, equally skilled at the negotiating table and in the courtroom. To schedule a free consultation with one of our personal injury attorneys today, call us at 540-662-4222 or reach out to us online.