Indiana Dog Bite Lawyer
Helping Dog Attack Victims in Northwest Indiana
Dogs are supposed to be man’s best friend, but sometimes they’re anything but friendly. When a dog attacks you or a loved one, the injuries can be painful and require expensive medical treatment. An experienced dog bite attorney from Alvarez Law Offices can help ease the pain of an attack by working to obtain a financial settlement from the dog’s owner or other responsible party.
Compensation can extend beyond medical treatment to cover costs for damaged property, lost wages from missed work, emotional distress, and more. We understand the personal impact these injuries can have, and we're committed to pursuing all avenues for compensation. To date, our personal injury attorneys have won more than $300,000 for dog attack victims in Indiana like you.
Contact us for a free consultation and we will fight to obtain a settlement for you. If you have any questions, please give us a call at (219) 300-5204
Can I Sue for a Minor Dog Bite in Indiana?
Usually, yes. Even if your doctor has examined your dog bite and determined your injuries are relatively minor, the owner often is liable to compensate you for the injury. However, depending on your particular circumstances, your rights, and the extent of your eligibility to sue may vary. It's important to recognize that even minor bites can lead to infection or psychological effects, which may warrant compensation. It is important to consult an experienced dog bite attorney in Indiana to determine the right course of action to seek relief in pursuing your dog attack lawsuit settlement. Legal guidance can not only clarify your potential claims but also support a strategic approach to pursuing them.
How Much Can I Claim for a Dog Bite?
We've Recovered Billions for Clients
-
$15 Million Semi-Truck Accident
-
$8.5 Million Semi-Truck Accident
-
$4 Million Steel Mill Explosion
-
$3.55 Million Injured Tradesmen/Steelworker
-
$3 Million Prescription Medical Defect
-
$2.5 Million Amputation in Illinois
How Long Does a Dog Bite Settlement Take?
There is no certain time for a dog attack lawsuit settlement. The length of a claim depends on a number of factors, ranging from the severity of injuries to the circumstances of the attack, cooperativeness of the dog owner, and more. Each step, from initial consultation to resolution, involves strategic planning and meticulous attention to detail.
What is certain, however, is that the services of a dog bite lawyer in Indiana experienced with dog bites and immersed in applicable laws can help move the process along. This professional assistance ensures that all necessary documentation and legal requirements are efficiently managed.
-
Everyone that I have spoken with at Alvarez has been polite, positive, & professional. These interactions have inspired my confidence in this firm. It’s reassuring when you’re not well to have a team like this on your side. My attorney, Steven Alvarez a great communicator, very helpful, and kind. He has already been a huge help. I’m grateful I have Alvarez Law working on my behalf.- Lilly P.
-
My experience with the Alvarez Law office was outstanding. They took my case and completed it in a timely manner. Ms. Theresa was outstanding with my case and made sure that I had everything I needed. If anyone needs a law firm that would fight for you like no other this is the Law firm for you. Thank you Anna Gallo- Anna G.
-
I was in an awful wreck in January and I contacted Mr. Alvarez. He has been such a great attorney but an even better friend! From checking up on me and making time for calls with both of our busy schedules. I can honestly say in an awful circumstance Steve Alvarez did his absolute best at all times. I Highly recommend this attorney to anyone!!! Thank you- Collin S.
-
This is a firm you want on your side. They did an amazing job on my car accident case. They really are 24-7. Brandon answered all my questions promptly even on the weekends. Steven got me an amazing settlement. He is the man! He even got my medicals lowered. This is a powerhouse lawyer you want on your side.- Moses V.
-
- Hailey S.
Brandon was great at getting back to me and answering all of my questions. It was nice having someone that would answer 24-7 and Attorney Alvarez got me a great resolution on my case.
-
The office staff was always polite answering the phones. The paralegals are always there to answer my questions through email or by phone calls it may have taken time to get back to me but just had to be patient. The legal secretary called to go over and make sure I understood what and how it was going to be finalized. Attorney Steve Alvarez not settling and making sure he went the extra mile for me.- Brandy F.
-
The whole entire staff IS GREAT from the front desk to the top. Very nice very friendly honest and reliable!- Joseph L.
-
Very pleased with this law firm Brandon has kept me updated throughout my case. Brandon and Nicole are Rock Star's. I would definitely encourage anyone to use this law firm. If you want a Rock Star lawyer then Brandon Morford at Alvarez Law that's the guy you need.- James C.
-
I recommend the Alvarez Law Office; Friendly, helpful, and needful advice and also very knowledgeable regarding workman's comp claims. I appreciated their professional representation and skill.- Faith F.
-
The Alvarez Law Office helped me settle a workers compensation case. I am very pleased with the results thus far! Brandon along with the paralegal staff have been very professional and friendly. If you are in need of legal representation, consider Alvarez Law Office. Thank you so much!- Laura J.
-
Got me more money back than I expected for my injuries! Thanks Alvarez law firm. You guys are awesome!!!- Jerry G.
-
The Alvarez Law Office helped me with a personal injury case and did a superb job. Everyone from the office staff to Walter Alvarez are very personable and friendly. My experience was great. Shout out to Steven Alvarez for a great job! Thank you so much!- Marci W.
Indiana Dog Bite Cases: Insight & Information
Who Can I Sue for a Dog Bite in Indiana?
One of the most critical questions to answer in a dog bite or other personal injury cases, is “who is at fault?” Identifying fault can significantly influence the course and outcome of legal proceedings.
As soon as it’s determined who is at fault, a judge will decide on a court date or a negotiated settlement that the at-fault party will be ordered to compensate to the injured party. This process underscores the necessity of thorough evidence and documentation.
In order to prove a personal injury case in Indiana, certain elements must be proven:
- The accident was caused by the other person’s wrongful or negligent act.
- The victim suffered actual losses as a result of the accident.
- The victim’s injuries were caused by the accident.
- The person responsible for the victim’s losses has the means to provide compensation – either insurance or assets.
Most personal injury accidents occur because someone was careless or “negligent” during the incident.
No matter what type of personal injury claim it is, the person who was less careful will be required to pay for some of the damages suffered by the more careful person. It's crucial to gather all possible evidence to support your claims robustly.
If the injured person was also negligent during the accident, the compensation you receive may be reduced due to carelessness.
In order to win a dog bite lawsuit based on negligence, the injured person must prove that:
- The owner had a responsibility to care and control his or her dog.
- The owner showed carelessness and negligence by failing to meet that duty.
- The owner’s negligence is the reason the injured person was harmed.
States like Indiana and many others have strict liability laws, making dog owners automatically liable for most dog-bite injuries. This legal framework is designed to protect victims and hold dog owners accountable for their pet's actions.
Even if your doctor has examined your dog bite and determined your injuries are insignificant, the owner often is liable to compensate you for the injury. However, depending on your particular circumstances, your rights, and the extent of your eligibility to sue may vary. It is important to consult an experienced personal injury attorney to determine the right course of action to seek relief in pursuing your dog attack settlement.
What to Do If You Were Injured by a Dog Bite
If you’ve sustained injuries from a dog bite, seek immediate medical attention and then report the dog bite if the hospital hasn’t already done so. This is crucial to prevent complications such as infections.
Until it’s determined the dog doesn’t have rabies, the health commissioner can have the dog quarantined. If the attack was particularly vicious, you can also file a police report. This helps document the incident formally, which can be essential for legal proceedings.
Try to get information about the dog that attacked you and speak to the dog owner about the incident and your medical expenses. Evidence such as photos or videos can help bolster your claims.
Dog bites are sometimes covered under the dog owner’s homeowners insurance.
If he or she doesn’t have homeowners insurance, or if you are unable to negotiate a settlement outside of court, you could choose to file a lawsuit. Legal representation can guide you through negotiating settlements and pursuing formal legal action.
Whether or not you pursue your claim under common law or statutory law, you are entitled to full repayment for your dog bite injury. Determining the best legal approach can maximize the compensation received for each unique situation.
Damages in dog attack cases usually include economic losses (medical costs, lost income, diminished future earnings, etc.) and non-economic losses (emotional distress, pain and suffering, and punitive damages).
Should I Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer?
Great question—the answer is yes. The owner may wish to handle the matter privately, or their insurance company may offer you monetary compensation for your injuries. However, engaging the services of a local dog bite attorney in Indiana can significantly increase the amount you recover, and possibly discover additional losses for which you’re entitled to compensation, such as property damage, lost work, and more. Attorneys can also ensure all interactions and negotiations respect legal standards.
Additionally, a lawyer can conduct research to determine if the dog has a history of attacking, and a lawyer can help take steps to prevent the dog from causing future injuries. This proactive approach not only aids your current situation but can help prevent future incidences for others.
Contact us today at (219) 300-5204 to schedule a free consultation with our Northwest Indiana dog bite attorneys.
Get The Justice You Deserve With Alvarez Law Offices
Staffed with a large team of experienced personal injury attorneys, Alvarez Law Offices will fight aggressively—and effectively—on your behalf. Our commitment to client success is steadfast, ensuring you receive comprehensive support through each stage of your legal journey.
Contact the attorneys at Alvarez Law Offices to determine your rights and the level of compensation to which you’re entitled.
