Dogs are widely considered to be “man’s best friend.” Unfortunately, in recent years, these traditionally friendly canines have been acting out towards humans in record numbers.
Even dogs who are usually well-behaved or docile among human members of their household can suddenly attack other people without warning. Postal workers, delivery agents, neighbours, visitors, and innocent passersby can be seriously injured as the result of someone else’s dog’s aggression.
The injuries sustained in dog attacks can range in severity from moderate to fatal. Infants, toddlers, small children, and the elderly are particularly susceptible to fatal injuries as the result of an encounter with a violent, biting dog.
Furthermore, when dogs bite people, they can transmit infectious, potentially deadly diseases to their human victims. These include:
Being attacked by a dog can also lead to pervasive psychological trauma. Many victims of dog attacks develop severe mental health disorders as a result of their encounter with someone else’s violent dog. These often include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), insomnia and other sleep disorders, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) as a result of disfigurement or physical scarring, and more.
Coping with the physical injuries and mental health issues often sustained by the victims of dog attacks can be expensive. But who is responsible for compensating the people bitten by an animal that cannot account for its own actions?
The people who own and/or control access to commercial or residential properties owe a duty of care to the people who visit their premises. Their responsibilities to the safety of guests and other rightful visitors to the property are outlined in the province’s Occupiers’ Liability Act.
Therefore, if a dog owner fails to take preventative measures to keep their pet from harming a guest on their premises, their insurance provider could be liable for the damages they incur as a result of their injuries. However, insurers often find reasons to deny injured dog attack victims the compensation they are rightfully owed.
If you were bitten by someone else’s dog, our Wood Buffalo dog bite lawyers may be able to help you recover the compensation you deserve.To review the circumstances of your case with our dog bite lawyers serving Wood Buffalo and learn about the options available to you, contact us today and schedule a free initial consultation.
After being injured by someone else’s dog, even if you have a pre-existing, personal relationship with its owner, it is important to report the incident to Alberta Animal Service bylaw enforcement. Doing so could save lives, and could save future victims from the physical, emotional, and financial burden of being injured in an attack.
It is also important to call our dog bite lawyers serving Wood Buffalo to take advantage of a free initial consultation. During this cost-free, no-obligation first meeting, you will have the opportunity to learn about options for financial recovery that might be available to you in the wake of your injury-causing dog attack.
Do not hesitate. Book your free initial consultation with our Wood Buffalo dog bite lawyers today.
Since 1959, Preszler Injury Lawyers has been helping Canadians pursue meaningful compensation from insurance providers.
To speak with a member of our legal team today, book a free consultation. Our phone lines are open 24/7 and the best part is, you don't pay anything unless you decide to hire us and we successfully recover compensation for you. Yes that's right - you don't pay unless we win!