In dog bite cases, a strong legal argument is key to getting compensation for victim injuries and losses. A good dog bite attorney knows the importance of thoroughly examining and collecting evidence. We will look at how a good dog bite attorney builds a case using a thorough investigation to gather relevant evidence. The victims of dog bit accidents can increase their chances for fair compensation by understanding the investigation’s process, importance, and value and gathering evidence.
I. Dog Bite Accidents – The Importance of Investigating the Case
A dog bite accident lawyer conducts an extensive investigation to gather information crucial to the victim’s case. Here’s why investigations are important:
- Establishing Liability: Investigations are conducted to determine the responsibility for a bite by a canine. The lawyer will identify anyone who could be held responsible for the accident, whether it is the dog owner, the owner of the property, or other people with control over the dog. This investigation will include reviewing local ordinances, statutes, and regulations.
- Determine Negligence: An investigation will help determine any negligent actions or failures to take action that contributed to an accident involving a dog bite. The lawyer gathers evidence to demonstrate the negligent party’s breach of duty, resulting in the victim’s injury.
- Identifying and Locating Witnesses: Investigation includes identifying and then locating witnesses. Witnesses’ statements are essential for confirming the victim’s version and establishing liability. They also strengthen the case. The attorney will conduct interviews to obtain detailed statements and collect contact information.
- Identifying Previous Incidents: An investigation could reveal past incidents involving a dog, including previous bites or aggression. This information can show a pattern of dangerous behavior. It also shows that the dog owner knew of its bite propensity.
II. Gathering Physical Evidence for Dog Bite Accidents
Physical evidence is essential in building a good case after a dog bite accident. The lawyer gathers evidence in support of the victim. Here’s how:
- Photographs and videos: It’s crucial to take pictures of the dog-bite injuries, the scene where the incident occurred, and any visible proof (such as broken fences or leashes). These visual documents provide objective documentation about the injuries and the circumstances that led to the incident.
- Medical Records: Documentation and medical records are essential in establishing the injuries’ severity. The lawyer obtains medical reports, records from hospitals, results of diagnostic tests, and invoices for expenses. These records clearly show the injuries sustained and the treatments received.
- Animal Control Records: It is important to obtain animal control reports, which may include information on previous incidents, complaints of neighbours, and citations for the owner. These reports provide information about the dog’s history, including aggressive or dangerous behaviors.
- Testimonies of Witnesses: In dog bite accident cases, the testimony of witnesses can be very useful. The lawyer will ask witnesses for detailed statements regarding what they witnessed before, while, and after the event. Witnesses can objectively account for the dog’s behavior and the attack’s circumstances.
Conclusion
In dog-bite accident cases, evidence collection and a comprehensive investigation are crucial to building a good legal case. A dog-biting accident lawyer will use their expertise to identify the liability and negligence involved and collect evidence such as photographs, medical documents, witness testimonies, and official reports. They also consult dog behavior specialists, medical professionals, psychologists, and other experts to strengthen their claims.