What Damages Can You Recover?

Depending on the seriousness of injuries resulting from an animal attack, you may be entitled to recover for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage.

In some instances, you may also be entitled to punitive damages, which are awarded to punish someone for his or her behavior.  To justify an award of punitive damages, the wrongdoer's conduct usually must be more than negligent, such as reckless or intentional conduct. For example, if a dog owner knew his dog was very dangerous, yet repeatedly allowed the dog to run free near a school, and the dog eventually attacked a child, a jury could conclude that punitive damages were appropriate.

Getting Help

If an animal has bitten you or a loved one, you may be entitled to recover damages for any injuries that resulted. Determining your legal rights can be complicated, and it may be unclear who to bring a claim against, and to what sort of damages you are entitled. To ensure that you receive just compensation, you should consider contacting an attorney with experience handling dog/animal bite cases.

See also:

• Animal Bites: Who Pays Damages?
• Proving Owner Knowledge of a Dog's Viciousness
• Does the Type of Animal Affect a Bite Injury Case?
• Dog/Animal Bites - FAQ
• Dog/Animal Bites - Resources