Dogs are a popular pet, now more than ever. When “man’s best friend” turns vicious, the result can be serious or even fatal injuries. While we may consider family dogs as friendly and safe, dogs are animals that react instinctively. A watchdog or aggressive dog trained to attack intruders, if left wandering the neighborhood, can attack and permanently maim innocent children or adults.
If you or your loved one has been the victim of a dog bite no matter how big or small, you need legal help to seek financial compensation. Contact Cannon & Dunphy S.C., the premier personal injury law firm serving Kenosha. Our Wisconsin personal injury lawyers have recovered over $1 billion for the injured in over 30 years in practice. We are trial lawyers and take our duty to our clients very seriously.
Nearly 5 million people are bitten by dogs in the United States each year. In Wisconsin, lawmakers have enacted dog bite laws to protect the public and punish those who fail to control a dog in the presence of others. Wisconsin Dog Bite Statute 174.02 states that a dog’s owner is liable for any damage the animal inflicts on innocent people. If the dog has a history of aggressive behavior, the statute states the owner of the dog may be liable for twice the typical amount of damages awarded.
While there are some dog breeds known to be particularly aggressive, any dog, large or small, can inflict dangerous bites in the right circumstances. Dog bites often tear skin, flesh, and muscle, leaving lifelong scars, both physical and emotional. Dog bites may lead to permanent disfigurement, disability, or death. The dog bite may damage soft tissue, tendons, and nerves, affecting mobility. The mouths of dogs are known to carry dangerous types of bacteria which can lead to serious infections that are difficult to treat. If the dog has not been vaccinated for rabies, transmission of this fatal disease is possible.
Children are often the victims of a vicious dog attack. The statistics reveal the staggering numbers of dog bite injuries requiring hospitalization each year. As dog bites pose a risk of serious or fatal infections, it is imperative that medical attention is sought without delay. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) reports that one in five people bitten by a dog requires medical attention. With over 36% of households in the United States owning dogs, dog bites are on the rise – particularly for children. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reports that over 800,000 people bitten by dogs each year require medical attention – and more than half of these victims are children.
If you or your loved one has been bitten by a dog, it is important to speak with a lawyer who has experience in recovering compensation in dog bite cases. Our skilled personal injury attorneys in Kenosha provide exceptional legal services for every client case. At Cannon & Dunphy S.C., we have over 30 years of experience in personal injury law, have recovered over $1 billion in damages for the people we serve, and are available to assist you.
We offer a free case evaluation, so you can get information about what to expect, how long it will require to recover compensation, and the estimated value of your case. All of our dog bite injury cases in Kenosha are taken on a contingency basis – no fee unless we are successful. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Our Wisconsin dog bite lawyers are ready to help you pursue the maximum in compensation.
