If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Genesee County, New York, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. In order to file a dog bite claim, there are certain steps you should take to ensure that your claim is handled properly and that you receive the compensation you deserve. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process of filing a dog bite claim in Genesee County
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention
The first step after being bitten by a dog is to seek medical attention. Even if the bite doesn’t seem serious, it’s important to have it checked out by a medical professional. Dog bites can cause serious infections, and you may need antibiotics or other medical treatment to prevent complications.
Step 2: Gather Information
After seeking medical attention, it’s important to gather information about the dog and its owner. This includes the owner’s name and contact information, as well as any information about the dog’s vaccination history. If possible, take pictures of the dog and the location where the bite occurred.
Step 3: Report the Incident
It’s important to report the incident to the appropriate authorities. In Genesee County, you should report the dog bite to the Genesee County Health Department. They will investigate the incident and determine if the dog poses a risk to public health.
Step 4: Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s important to contact a personal injury attorney who has experience handling dog bite claims in Genesee County. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Step 5: File a Dog Bite Claim
Once you’ve hired an attorney, they will help you file a dog bite claim with the owner’s insurance company. The claim should include information about the incident, your injuries, and any medical treatment you’ve received. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
Step6: Consider the Statute of Limitations
It’s important to keep in mind that there is a statute of limitations for filing a dog bite claim in Genesee County. In New York, you generally have three years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s important to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your claim is filed within the statute of limitations.
Step 7: Attend Mediation or Trial
After filing a dog bite claim, there may be an opportunity for mediation between you, your attorney, and the insurance company. Mediation is a negotiation process where both parties try to reach a settlement without going to trial. If a settlement is not reached, your case may go to trial. Your attorney will represent you in court and present evidence to support your claim.
Step 8: Receive Compensation
If a settlement or trial is successful, you will receive compensation for your injuries. This may include payment for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other expenses related to the dog bite incident. Your attorney will help ensure that you receive the full amount of compensation you deserve.
Filing a dog bite claim in Genesee County can be a complex and stressful process. By following these steps and working with an experienced personal injury attorney, you can ensure that your claim is handled properly and you receive the compensation you deserve. Remember to seek medical attention, gather information, report the incident, hire an attorney, file a claim, consider the statute of limitations, attend mediation or trial, and finally, receive your compensation.
Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC is a personal injury law firm with experience handling dog bite claims in Genesee County, New York. Here’s how our firm can help you file a dog bite claim:
Provide Legal Advice: Our attorneys can provide you with legal advice on how to proceed with your claim. We can answer your questions, explain the legal process, and provide guidance on how to best present your case.
Conduct an Investigation: Our attorneys can investigate the incident, gather evidence, and interview witnesses to support your claim. We can also work with experts to evaluate your injuries and determine the compensation you deserve
File the Claim: Our attorneys can file a claim with the dog owner’s insurance company on your behalf. We will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you receive a fair settlement for your injuries.
Represent You in Court: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we can represent you in court. Our attorneys have the experience and knowledge to present a strong case and fight for your rights.
Maximize Your Compensation: Our goal is to help you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. We will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the dog bite incident.
Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC can provide you with the legal assistance you need to file a dog bite claim in Genesee County, New York. Our attorneys have the experience and knowledge to guide you through the legal process and help you receive the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.