Dogs are mostly known as loyal and loving companions. These pets offer comfort and safety to the people who care for them.
However, these seemingly harmless animals can sometimes bite and cause serious injuries. If you are a victim of a dog bite, you may be eligible to file a claim and get compensation for the damages and injuries sustained. Understand the types of damages you may incur from a dog bite.
Classification of Damages
The damages can be classified into two main categories.
Economic Damages
These are the damages that are tied to monetary or tangible losses. Economic damages associated with dog bite injuries include medical expenses and lost wages due to missed work days.
Non-Economic Damages
These damages are not directly associated with monetary value but result in emotional or physical harm. The damages may include loss of companionship and emotional distress.
Understanding the Various Types of Dog Bite Damages
Here is a more detailed look at the various damages you can pursue after a dog bite.
Medical Expenses
Depending on the severity of the dog bite, you may need extensive medical treatment. Sometimes, you may undergo surgery, stitches or even scarring. Also, you may need to be hospitalized for monitoring and to receive proper medication.
All these expenses can quickly add up to cause financial distress. But compensation comes in handy to cover all these costs.
Lost Wages
You may need some days or weeks to recover from the dog bite. During this period, you may be forced to miss work, and even if you decide to work, your production levels may be low.
In such cases, you can file a lost wages claim and receive compensation for the money you would have earned if not for the injury. The amount you receive for this compensation mainly depends on the number of hours and days you missed due to the injury.
Lost Companion
Again, if the dog bite injuries are severe, you cannot enjoy the company of your loved ones as before. You may be unable to go out with your spouse, parents or friends, which causes a great deal of distress.
Under such circumstances, you can receive compensation for the loss of companionship or emotional damage that results from the physical injury.
Pain and Suffering
Sometimes the pain caused by a dog bite cannot be quantified into monetary value. But you deserve to be compensated for the pain and suffering endured. For example, you may have experienced pain during the attack, suffered from anxiety and depression afterward, or even lost sleep.
Scarring
Dog bites leave behind scars that may cause disfigurement or permanent physical impairment. The wounds may affect your appearance and self-confidence.
Under such circumstances, you can file a claim for compensation for the physical damage caused by the scars. The amount you receive depends on the size of the scar and how it affects the area’s appearance.
Replacement Service
You may not manage your daily activities if the dog bite is severe. For example, you may need help cooking, bathing, driving, and even performing minor chores.
In such cases, you can be compensated for hiring a replacement service. But be careful not to hire professionals for services unrelated to the dog bite or services you really don’t need.
A dog bite can cause severe physical and even psychological damage. Fortunately, although things can never be the same again, you may be eligible for financial compensation to help you get back on your feet.
However, you must present a solid case and prove all damages to the court. Having a good lawyer who understands dog bite liability can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.
You can trust us at Frenkel & Frenkel for all your dog bite injury needs. We are experienced and can help you build a strong case to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a consultation.
