Compensation You Can Claim with the Help of Milwaukee Dog Bite Lawyers

Dog bite incidents can leave lasting physical and emotional scars on victims. In such distressing times, Milwaukee dog bite lawyers serve as essential advocates for those affected by these traumatic events. These legal professionals help victims navigate Wisconsin’s strict liability law and secure rightful compensation for their injuries. 

Professional legal representation proves crucial in these cases. Milwaukee dog bite lawyers understand the complexities of personal injury claims and fight to protect your rights. Their expertise helps maximize your compensation while you focus on recovery. However, it’s important to avoid certain pitfalls during this process. Here are some mistakes to avoid that could jeopardize your claim. 

Understanding Dog Bite Laws in Wisconsin 

Wisconsin’s strict liability law places absolute responsibility on dog owners for any injuries their pets cause. This law differs from the “one-bite rule” followed by some states, where owners are only liable if they knew their dog had aggressive tendencies. 

When Are Dog Owners Liable in Wisconsin? 

Under Wisconsin Statute 174.02, dog owners face liability in these specific situations: 

• First-time incidents: Full compensation for the victim’s injuries 

• Repeat incidents: Double damages if the dog has previously bitten someone 

• Property damage: Coverage for any destruction caused by the dog 

What Factors Don’t Affect Liability? 

The law applies regardless of: 

• The dog’s previous behavior 

• Owner’s knowledge of aggressive tendencies 

• Precautions taken to prevent incidents 

• Location of the incident (public or private property) 

How Does This Law Benefit Victims? 

This strict liability structure strengthens victims’ compensation claims. You don’t need to prove the owner’s negligence – the fact that their dog caused injury is sufficient grounds for a claim. The law also extends liability to “keepers” or “harborers” of dogs, such as pet sitters or family members temporarily caring for the animal. 

Additional Considerations for Property Owners 

For property owners, this law creates additional considerations. Landlords can face liability if they knowingly permit tenants to keep dangerous dogs on their property, potentially increasing the sources of compensation available to bite victims. 

Seeking Legal Help 

In such unfortunate scenarios, seeking legal assistance can significantly aid in navigating the complexities of personal injury claims. For instance, Attorney Andrew R. Liverman specializes in personal injury cases in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and can provide valuable guidance and representation. 

Additionally, it’s important to note that dog bite incidents can sometimes coincide with other types of personal injuries, such as slip and fall accidents or car accidents. In these cases, having a seasoned attorney who understands the nuances of these different types of personal injury law can be beneficial. 

Types of Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims 

Dog bite victims in Milwaukee can pursue two primary categories of compensation: economic and non-economic damages. 

Economic Damages 

Economic damages refer to the financial losses incurred as a result of the dog bite incident. These may include: 

• Medical expenses (current and future) 

• Lost wages and income 

• Property damage 

• Transportation costs to medical appointments 

• Home modifications for severe injuries 

Medical expenses (current and future) 

This includes all medical costs associated with the dog bite injury, such as: 

• Emergency room visits 

• Surgeries and procedures 

• Medications 

• Physical therapy 

• Reconstructive surgery 

Non-Economic Damages 

Non-economic damages compensate for the intangible losses experienced by the victim. These may include: 

• Physical pain and suffering 

• Emotional distress and trauma 

• Loss of enjoyment of life 

• Disfigurement and scarring 

• Mental anguish 

• PTSD and anxiety 

The severity of your injuries plays a crucial role in determining compensation amounts. Serious injuries resulting in permanent scarring, nerve damage, or disability typically warrant higher compensation than minor injuries that heal completely. In some cases, such as when a dog bite results in severe burns, you may need to consult a burn injury attorney to help navigate the complexities of your case. 

Your compensation amount reflects: 

• The extent and permanence of physical injuries 

• Impact on daily activities and quality of life 

• Duration of recovery period 

• Need for ongoing medical care 

• Changes in personal relationships 

• Effects on career prospects 

A documented history of medical treatments, expert testimonies, and detailed records of how the injuries affect your life strengthen your claim for maximum compensation. Insurance companies assess these factors when calculating settlement offers, making it essential to maintain thorough documentation of all injury-related expenses and impacts. 

In some instances, pursuing a class action lawsuit may be an option if multiple victims are affected by similar circumstances. Learn about three types of class action lawsuits which could potentially apply to your situation. 

To further understand how different cases have been handled, including dog bite incidents, you can explore some personal injury client stories which provide insights into the experiences of other accident victims in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 

Common Injuries from Dog Bites 

Dog bite incidents can result in severe physical and psychological injuries that require immediate medical attention and long-term care. 

Category	Details
Physical Injuries	Deep puncture wounds and lacerations
	Broken bones, particularly in hands and arms
	Facial injuries affecting soft tissue and nerves
	Muscle and ligament damage
	Infections, including rabies and bacterial infections
	Scarring and disfigurement
	Nerve damage leading to reduced mobility or sensation
Psychological Impact	Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
	Anxiety disorders and panic attacks
	Fear of dogs or outdoor activities
	Depression and social withdrawal
	Sleep disturbances and nightmares
	Difficulty returning to normal daily activities

 

Children often experience more severe psychological effects due to their vulnerability and developing emotional capacity. These mental health challenges can persist long after physical wounds heal, requiring professional counseling and therapy. 

The combination of physical and psychological injuries creates a complex recovery journey. Many victims need specialized medical treatments, including plastic surgery for scarring, physical therapy for mobility issues, and psychological counseling to address trauma-related symptoms. 

Milwaukee dog bite lawyers understand the full scope of these injuries and work to secure compensation that covers both immediate medical needs and long-term recovery requirements. 

The Claims Process for Dog Bite Victims 

Filing a dog bite claim requires strategic steps to maximize your chances of fair compensation. The process starts with reporting the incident to local authorities and seeking immediate medical attention – both actions create official documentation of your injuries. 

Your next crucial step involves notifying the dog owner’s insurance company. Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bite incidents, with typical coverage ranging from $100,000 to $300,000. The insurance company will assign an adjuster to investigate your claim. 

Key Documentation Required: 

• Medical records and bills 

• Photos of injuries 

• Witness statements 

• Animal control reports 

• Proof of lost wages 

• Documentation of property damage 

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims. Their adjusters might: 

• Question the severity of your injuries 

• Argue you provoked the dog 

• Claim you were trespassing 

• Dispute liability 

When claims face denial or undervaluation, the litigation process becomes necessary. This involves: 

• Filing a formal lawsuit within Wisconsin’s statute of limitations 

• Discovery phase – collecting evidence and depositions 

• Settlement negotiations 

• Court proceedings if settlement fails 

Legal representation proves invaluable during insurance negotiations. Experienced attorneys understand insurance tactics and can counter lowball offers with solid evidence. They handle communication with adjusters, protect your rights, and prepare your case for potential litigation. 

The presence of a skilled attorney often leads to higher settlement offers, as insurance companies recognize the risk of facing experienced legal counsel in court. This is similar to how motorcycle accident lawyers assist with legal claims or how specialized lawyers help with truck accident claims, highlighting the importance of having expert legal assistance in any personal injury case. 

Role of Milwaukee Dog Bite Lawyers 

Milwaukee dog bite lawyers serve as dedicated advocates who handle every aspect of your case management. At Gendlin, Liverman & Rymer (GLR), our legal team: 

• Locates and interviews witnesses to strengthen your case 

• Collects police reports and ambulance documentation 

• Gathers medical records and bills 

• Verifies lost wages through employer documentation 

• Calculates travel expenses related to medical treatments 

• Documents injuries through photographs and expert testimony 

• Files insurance claims and handles communications 

GLR’s reputation stands on aggressive advocacy and proven results. Our attorneys, including Attorney Daniel E. Meylink, have secured verdicts up to $7.2 million for accident victims, demonstrating our commitment to maximizing compensation for our clients. 

We prioritize accessibility – our “We Can Help – We Will Come to You” policy means we’ll meet you at your home or hospital. This personal approach allows us to: 

• Understand your specific situation 

• Document immediate evidence 

• Begin case preparation promptly 

• Reduce stress during your recovery 

Our legal team manages complex negotiations with insurance companies while protecting your rights. We leverage our extensive experience in dog bite cases to anticipate defense strategies and build compelling arguments for maximum compensation. 

In addition to dog bite cases, GLR also specializes in other personal injury areas such as nursing home abuse and truck accidents. If you or a loved one is facing such a situation, don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation. 

Factors Influencing Compensation Amounts 

The amount of compensation you can receive in a dog bite case depends on several key factors. Your injury severity plays a crucial role in determining the final settlement amount: 

• Permanent Disfigurement: Visible scars or permanent marks can lead to higher compensation 

• Long-term Medical Care: Cases requiring ongoing treatment typically result in larger settlements 

• Disability Level: Injuries affecting your ability to work or perform daily activities increase claim value 

The dog’s history of aggression significantly impacts your compensation potential: 

• Previous bite incidents can double your potential damages under Wisconsin law 

• Documented complaints about the dog’s aggressive behavior strengthen your case 

• Owner’s knowledge of their dog’s dangerous tendencies increases liability 

Additional factors affecting your compensation include: 

• Location and depth of bite wounds 

• Psychological trauma requiring therapy 

• Impact on your quality of life 

• Lost wages during recovery 

• Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs 

Your Milwaukee dog bite lawyer will assess these factors to build a strong case for maximum compensation. Each element adds weight to your claim, potentially increasing the final settlement amount. 

Get The Compensation Your Deserve! 

Dog bite cases require skilled legal representation to secure fair compensation. Milwaukee dog bite lawyers have the expertise to navigate complex legal processes and insurance negotiations while protecting your rights. 

Your recovery deserves dedicated attention from professionals who understand Wisconsin’s strict liability laws. The right legal team will evaluate your case, calculate appropriate compensation, and fight for the settlement you deserve. 

Don’t let uncertainty about your rights stop you from seeking justice. Contact experienced Milwaukee dog bite lawyers today to discuss your case and explore your compensation options. A strong legal advocate can make the difference between a denied claim and substantial compensation for your injuries. 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)