Dogs are “family with tails” in countless Portland households. Dog lovers, especially children, beam with joy when crossing paths with friendly dogs while exploring parks, running errands, and visiting friends and neighbors. Most domesticated canines are harmless and are not obviously dangerous to strangers unfamiliar with the dog.
Such a dog may, nonetheless, be known to its owner as dangerous when triggering circumstances arise. Oregon dog owners who know (or should know) that their dog tends to bite can be held strictly liable for medical costs from dog bite injuries. This is commonly (and incorrectly) known as the “one bite rule,” as no prior bite is needed for the one bite rule to apply. This is because dogs can be dangerous for reasons other than biting such as chasing bicyclists or small children.
A dog attack can cause severe injury and emotional trauma, especially in situations where the dog bites a vulnerable person in a sensitive body area. Children are especially vulnerable to dog attacks. If a dog attacks and injures you or your child, a Portland dog bite lawyer can pursue compensation for expenses and losses from the attack. Rizk Law understands how to counter powerful insurance company tactics to secure compensation that dog bite victims deserve.
You and your family’s well-being is our priority. Rizk Law attorneys are here for you should you need us. Contact us today to discuss your situation without obligation. Let Rizk Law be your Portland dog bite lawyers.
How a Portland, OR, Dog Bite Attorney Can Help You
If a dog has recently attacked you or a family member, its owner may owe you compensation, but navigating the legal process is overwhelming for most non-lawyers. It is difficult to devote time necessary to your claim while juggling medical appointments and other economic and psychological fallout from the attack. Fortunately, Rizk Law’s Portland dog bite lawyers can carry the claim load so you have space to focus on recovery.
At Rizk Law, we know the methods insurers use to deny and minimize dog bite claims. Richard Rizk, founder of our firm and a former German Shepherd owner himself, has worked for, against, and with many of the country’s largest insurers. He knows that insurers often tease victims with low-ball offers and often “victim blame” persons with legitimate injury claims. Let his insider knowledge be your edge.
Upon hiring us, Rizk Law will investigate and pursue a claim against the responsible party. After gathering all available and necessary evidence of the incident and resulting losses, we usually initially attempt to resolve the dispute via a detailed demand letter we create (subject to your approval) and send to potentially responsible persons and entities. We will then negotiate with the assigned claims examiner and any involved defense lawyers. If needed and with your approval, we will file a lawsuit on your behalf and proceed accordingly.
Throughout the legal process, your Rizk Law Portland dog bite lawyers will be available to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you understand your rights and options as we help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Experiencing a dog attack is bad enough as it is. Let Rizk Law carry the load toward resolution.
What to Do If You Are Attacked by a Dog
After an animal attack, you can take steps to better position yourself for a successful compensation claim. Here is what you should do after suffering injuries from a dog bite in Portland:
- Locate and notify the dog’s owner about your injury if an unaccompanied dog attacked you.
- Report an attack by a vicious or dangerous dog to local law enforcement or animal control.
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan and recovery instructions.
- Obtain copies of the medical records of your treatment and rehabilitation.
- Keep all bills, invoices, and receipts of expenses you incur to treat your injuries.
- Gather your pay stubs or income statements if you miss time from work during your injury recovery or if your injuries cause you to earn less than before the attack.
- Contact a dog bite attorney in Portland to discuss your legal options for demanding compensation and accountability for the harm you have suffered.
What Compensation Could You Recover in a Dog Bite Claim?
In a dog bite claim, you have the opportunity to seek compensation for any financial or personal losses you suffer due to your dog bite injuries. Your financial recovery could include money for your:
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation, including emergency care, surgeries, hospitalizations, medications, doctor’s appointments, and physical or occupational therapies
- Long-term care and support services to assist with prolonged or permanent disabilities
- Lost income from missed work or lower pay in a part-time or light-duty position
- Lost future earning potential or employment benefits due to long-term or permanent disability
- Physical pain, mental anguish, and emotional distress caused by injuries
- Reduced quality of life caused by disabilities, permanent scarring, or disfigurement
