Dog bites, attacks by vicious dogs and other animal bites are terrifying events for victims and their families. The injuries suffered in these attacks go far beyond a simple "bite,” and can result in permanent physical and emotional problems, or even death. Children make up 60% of dog bite victims, with the most severe injuries happening to children under 10 years of age.

The experienced personal injury attorneys of Kershaw, Cutter & Ratinoff understand the long-term consequences of dog attacks. We know how to fully investigate the circumstances of the attack, identify all possible responsible parties and insurance companies, and handle these complex cases from start to finish. We also help victims get proper medical treatment, including psychiatric counseling, when necessary.

Types of Damages Recoverable

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog attack, you may be entitled to:

• Payment for past and future medical treatment expenses, including mental health treatment
• Loss of past and future income and earning capacity
• Emotional distress
• Past and future pain and suffering
• Other expenses caused by the attack

Additional punitive damages may be available if it can be proven that the responsible party knew that the dog was dangerous to others but intentionally did nothing to prevent attacks from happening.

Know Your Rights!

Time Limits to File a Lawsuit

Statutes of Limitations, time limits to file a law suit, vary from state to state, so it is important to find out early what the limits are on your claim. Figuring out the precise time limits for your claim can be a very complex matter, so it is important to get solid legal advice. In addition to getting legal advice early, there are two important general rules that must be kept in mind:

• If there is any chance that a government agency, employee, or humane society/SPCA will be responsible for the attack, the time limit can be as little as 60 days. Under these circumstances, it is wise to consult an attorney immediately after the injury.
• If there is no possible chance that a government agency will be responsible, generally the victim will have one year from the date of the attack/injury to file a law suit.

If you have been injured by an animal attack, it is important to contact an attorney immediately to protect your rights.

The experienced attorneys of Kershaw, Cutter & Ratinoff will conduct a prompt and thorough investigation, collect the important evidence, and will deal directly and firmly with the responsible parties.

To contact an experienced personal injury attorney at Kershaw, Cutter & Ratinoff and to get a free and confidential case evaluation, please fill out and submit the contact form on this page or call us toll-free at (888) 285-3333.