Every personal injury case is different and will have a unique timeline. How long your dog bite case will last depends on various factors. For example, if you can reach a settlement agreement with the at-fault party’s insurance company, your case could be resolved faster than if it goes to trial. The investigation, discovery, and deposition processes also affect your case’s timeline.
If you or someone you love is seeking compensation for severe injuries, a Dallas dog bite lawyer can describe how long it may take to resolve your case. They will also review the specific details of your case and how each factor will affect the potential outcome. The best way to understand each step of your claim and its potential length is to seek guidance and direction from a lawyer in your area.
Your Right to File a Dog Bite Lawsuit Could Have a Two-Year Time Limit
The time it takes to resolve a dog bite case varies. However, the state limits the amount of time you have to file your lawsuit. According to Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, you generally have two years to meet the personal injury or wrongful death statute of limitations.
If you do not file your lawsuit within the allotted time, you could be unable to file it at all. Even if you manage to file your lawsuit late, the dog owner’s legal representatives will request its immediate dismissal. A personal injury lawyer can help you avoid this outcome and preserve your right to sue for financial compensation.
The Dog Bite Statute of Limitations Tolls—or Pauses—if a Minor Was Injured
The statutory clock for personal injury and wrongful death cases starts ticking on the date of the dog bite. However, if the dog bite victim was a minor, the state extends the filing deadline. Per Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.001, the statute of limitations starts on the injured party’s eighteenth birthday.
If your child was injured in a dog bite attack, a lawyer in your area can accurately assess the filing deadline. Their familiarity with personal injury law can help you avoid the potentially costly consequences of non-compliance.
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Your Dog Bite Lawyer Will Investigate Every Detail of Your Case
Animal attack victims typically file claims with the dog owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance company. If the insurer does not cover the animal (this can happen based on the dog’s breed), your personal injury attorney will look for a separate pet insurance policy or explore other options, such as suing the dog owner directly.
The legal team handling your case will also:
- Handle all communication with the insurer
- Complete and submit insurance claim forms
- Assign an accurate value to your case
- Answer your legal questions and concerns
- Provide ongoing updates on your case
- Locate and interview witnesses
- Negotiate for a favorable monetary settlement
The investigation your lawyer undertakes can also protect you from any allegations that your actions provoked the bite or otherwise contributed to the incident. This is a crucial part of your case since it can result in you receiving a reduced settlement or no settlement at all.
How Resolving Your Case With a Settlement vs. Trial Affects its Timeline
Like most personal injury cases, your dog bite claim is more likely to settle than go to court. Your dog bite injury lawyer will navigate the settlement process, fighting for an optimal financial recovery on your behalf. How long it will take to settle a dog bite claim depends on:
- Your treatment plan and prognosis
- The weight of available evidence
- Restrictions of the pet owner’s insurer
- Back-and-forth settlement negotiations
- Your decision to accept or reject an offer
Conversely, the trial process can involve waiting for a court date, preparing witnesses and evidence, and waiting for a finder of facts (a judge or jury) to reach a verdict. If your case requires filing an appeal, the resolution can take even longer.
Dog Bite Lawyers Know How to Build Compelling Case Files
Evidence is crucial in your fight for compensation after a dog bite. To build a comprehensive case file, your legal team will collect evidence such as:
- Animal control records
- Veterinary records
- Official police report
- Photos and videos
- Eyewitness statements
- Expert testimonials
- First responder reports
While you focus on recovering, your lawyer will obtain evidence and present it to the insurance company alongside your initial settlement demand letter.
Damages Your Lawyer Will Request for the Dog Bite’s Financial Consequences
The value of your compensation request after a dog bite will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the required treatment, and the length of your recovery. Your financial recovery may include compensation for:
- Past, present, and future medical care
- Past, present, and future lost wages
- Lost future earning ability and potential
- Personal property damages or destruction
You may also recover non-economic damages, including:
- Disability
- Physically disfiguring injuries
- Mental and emotional trauma
- Diminished quality of life
- Physical pain and suffering
Wrongful Death Compensation You Can Request in a Fatal Dog Bite Case
In addition to economic and non-economic damages, you can also sue for wrongful death damages if your family lost a loved one due to a dog attack, including:
- Funeral and cremation or burial costs
- Loss of the decedent’s financial support
- Loss of the decedent’s domestic support
- Loss of consortium and companionship
Recovering wrongful death damages can be complicated. Your lawyer will clarify who can file this legal action and which family members can receive damages.
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Call Today for a Free Review of Your Dog Bite Case
If a vicious dog injured you or someone you love, a personal injury lawyer can clarify how long it typically takes to resolve a dog bite case. They will also detail each step of the process and fight for the financial compensation you need and deserve.
Learn more about the timing of your case and its potential value by contacting our consultation team at Loncar Lyon Jenkins today.