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Dog bites can cause severe injuries requiring costly treatment, ongoing care, and missed time from work. Without pursuing a claim, victims may be burdened with overwhelming expenses through no fault of their own. In Idaho, owners are responsible for their dogs’ actions, and in most cases, they are responsible for paying compensation when their dogs cause injuries.
If you were the victim of a dog bite, you have rights under the law. The compassionate Boise dog bite lawyers at Sargent Law will protect your rights while providing you with the personalized attention you deserve as you struggle to recover from this traumatic incident.
You can call us at 844-SARGENT or contact us through our online contact form to learn more about your right to compensation as a Boise dog bite victim. We have secured over $40 million in settlements and verdicts for our clients. Find out what we can do for you.
Why It’s Important for Victims of Dog Bites in Idaho to Hold Dog Owners Accountable
Holding negligent dog owners accountable through the legal system with the help of a Boise personal injury lawyer is crucial for victims to obtain financial compensation, but it also sends a powerful message that irresponsible dog ownership has consequences. It incentivizes owners to take proper precautions like securing their dogs, adhering to leash laws, and providing necessary training.
When owners face no repercussions, they have less motivation to act carefully, putting the general public at risk of future attacks. By taking legal action, victims obtain justice for themselves and help prevent similar tragic incidents from happening to others in their community.
Holding negligent dog owners accountable is about more than just compensation – it’s about enforcing community safety standards, driving positive ownership practices, and ensuring the costs of irresponsible behavior don’t fall on the innocent victims. Dog bite victims should never hesitate to protect their rights and interests through the legal process fully.
Is Idaho a Strict Liability State for Dog Bite Claims?
Under Idaho’s dog bite statute (Idaho Code § 25-2810), a dog owner is strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog biting someone, regardless of whether the dog had previously shown any vicious tendencies or if the owner knew the dog could be dangerous. This is known as a strict liability law.
The statute states: “The owner of a dog which shall bite a person while in a public place or lawfully in a private place…shall be liable for such injury or death.” This means that in Idaho, dog owners are responsible for bites caused by their dogs, even if it’s the first instance of the dog biting someone. The victim does not need to prove that the dog had a history of aggression or that the owner was negligent.
There are a few exceptions where strict liability may not apply, such as if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog at the time of the bite. But in general, Idaho eliminates the one-bite rule defense for dog owners.
What Damages Can Dog Bite Victims in Boise Claim in a Lawsuit?
Dog bite victims in Boise, Idaho, can claim various types of damages in a lawsuit against the dog’s owner. Here are some of the common damages that may be recoverable:
- Past and future medical bills for treatment of the dog bite injuries
- Costs of hospitalization, surgery, medication, physical therapy, etc.
- Income lost due to missing work for treatment and recovery
- Loss of future earning capacity if injuries cause permanent disabilities
- Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the attack
- Damages for trauma, anxiety, PTSD, etc.
- Damages for permanent scarring, disfigurement, or loss of bodily function
- Repair or replacement costs for any property damaged during the attack
The damages and amounts awarded will depend on the severity of injuries, the impact on the victim’s life, and other factors specific to the case. An experienced Boise dog bite attorney can properly evaluate and pursue full and fair compensation for all damages.
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Schedule NowThe Deadline to File a Claim After You’ve Been Bitten By a Dog in Boise, Idaho
According to Idaho Code § 5-219, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim based on being “injured by the negligent or wrongful act or neglect of another” is two years. This two-year time limit applies to dog bite claims, which typically fall under personal injury or negligence laws in Idaho.
The clock starts ticking on the date the dog bite occurred. It’s crucial to file your claim against the dog’s owner within this two-year window. If you miss this deadline, you could be permanently barred from having your case heard in court or receiving compensation for your injuries and damages.
To ensure your rights are protected after an animal attack, call 844-SARGENT or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. We can explain the statute of limitations as it applies to your situation.
Filing a Claim for a Child Who Is Bitten By a Dog in Boise
For a child who falls victim to a dog bite, the impact can be even more devastating. These traumatic events can shape a child’s development and leave lasting psychological effects, such as an irrational fear of animals, nightmares, and difficulty trusting others. The physical scars may also lead to bullying and self-esteem issues as the child grows older.
If your child was bitten by a dog in Boise, Idaho, it’s crucial to take legal action to protect their rights. Dog bite cases involving minors can be complex, with additional considerations for future medical expenses, emotional trauma, and the long-term impact on the child’s life. Claims involving minors also have different timelines in Idaho.
A Boise dog bite lawyer can navigate these complexities, gather evidence, and fight for the total compensation your child deserves. Don’t let your child’s incident go unaddressed – contact a reputable Idaho law firm specializing in dog bite cases to discuss your options and safeguard your child’s future well-being.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Idaho When a Dog Attack Is Fatal?
In Idaho, when a dog attack results in a fatality, certain individuals are legally permitted to file a wrongful death claim against the dog’s owner. According to Idaho’s wrongful death statute (Idaho Code § 5-311), the following parties can bring a wrongful death action:
- The decedent’s spouse
- The decedent’s children
- The decedent’s stepchildren
- The decedent’s parents
- Any blood relatives who were partly or wholly dependent on the decedent for support or services
- Any adoptive brothers and sisters who were partly or wholly dependent on the decedent for support or services
- The illegitimate child of the decedent’s mother
- The illegitimate child of the decedent’s father, only if the father recognized responsibility for the child’s support
In Idaho, only one wrongful death claim can be brought on behalf of the deceased person. If there are multiple eligible parties, such as children from different relationships, they must collectively file a single claim. Idaho’s statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is two years.
Why You Should Not Accept a Low Settlement Offer in a Boise Dog Bite Claim
Insurance companies often make low initial settlement offers in Idaho dog bite claims, hoping you’ll accept without consulting a lawyer. Accepting a low settlement offer from an insurance company can be tempting, especially if you’re facing mounting medical bills and lost wages. However, it’s crucial to understand that these initial offers rarely account for the full extent of your damages and future needs.
Insurance companies are motivated to protect their profits, so they’ll try to minimize the payout as much as possible. An attorney can evaluate your damages’ full extent and negotiate a fair settlement.
Your attorney will consider all the current and future expenses related to your injuries, including ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation costs, lost earning potential, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. With a clear understanding of the financial impact, your lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement.
It’s free to speak with us and learn the value of your case today.
Call Us NowTalk to a Boise Dog Bite Lawyer for Free
Have you or a loved one suffered a traumatic dog bite injury in Boise? Don’t try to navigate the complex legal process alone. At Sargent Law, our dedicated team of Boise dog bite lawyers understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these incidents can take. We’re here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
Our Idaho injury attorneys will provide compassionate guidance every step of the way, from investigating the attack and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and taking your case to court if necessary. We’ll work tirelessly to seek maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Don’t let the negligent dog owner off the hook – contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Experience the personalized attention and tenacious advocacy that sets Sargent Law apart in Boise dog bite cases. Call our team at 844-SARGENT or fill out our online contact form to learn more about your legal options.
