Dog Bites
Clovis Dog Bite Attorney
Fighting For Dog Bite Victims in California
In California, the consequences of a dog bite can be severe, causing both physical and emotional harm. Owing to California's strict liability laws, dog owners are generally held accountable if their pet attacks someone. This means that owners are responsible for dog bites, irrespective of the dog's history or the owner's awareness of any aggression. Understanding these laws is vital when considering a legal case.
At Fowler | Helsel | Vogt, we leverage over 40 years of experience in personal injury law to guide victims through this legal landscape. Our dedicated attorneys provide comprehensive assistance at every stage, ensuring your rights are preserved and your voice is heard.
Call Fowler | Helsel | Vogt today at (559) 900-1280 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our dog bite lawyer in Clovis.
Why Choose Us?
Our team at Fowler | Helsel | Vogt not only comprehends local laws but also boasts familiarity with area courts and legal systems, providing a vital edge in your case. We focus on crafting robust cases that hold up in negotiations or court, depending on what optimizes your success.
Communication and personal attention are priorities at Fowler | Helsel | Vogt. We ensure that clients are never uninformed about their case's progress. Regular updates and easy access to your legal team mean support is always at your fingertips, providing peace of mind as we work toward justice on your behalf. Our deep-rooted connections in Clovis allow us to offer local insights that out-of-town firms may lack.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite
Should a dog bite incident occur, it is essential to take immediate action to secure your health and legal claim:
- Ensure Safety & Seek Medical Attention: To prevent infections, prioritize your safety by moving away from the dog and seeking immediate medical attention, even for minor wounds.
- Report the Incident: Notify Clovis Animal Services about the attack to document the incident and prevent future occurrences.
- Gather Information: Collect the dog owner's contact details, witness accounts, and photographs of injuries and the scene.
- Consult a Dog Bite Attorney: Contact us at Fowler | Helsel | Vogt to explore your legal rights and pursue compensation with our knowledgeable attorneys.
In addition to these steps, maintain a thorough record of medical treatments received and any correspondence with insurance companies or opposing legal parties. Such documentation is crucial in establishing the impact of your injuries.
Common Injuries from Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause significant physical and psychological harm, prompting a legal response to claim rightful compensation:
- Physical Injuries: These include lacerations, punctures, and infections that might require extensive medical treatment or surgeries.
- Emotional & Psychological Impact: Victims may endure lasting trauma, anxiety, or fear toward animals, requiring counseling and therapy.
The implications of a dog bite often transcend physical recovery, incorporating ongoing psychological and financial strains. Victims might face prolonged work absences, jeopardizing income and job stability. The burden of dealing with insurance companies and legal proceedings further exacerbates this strain.
Our Wins
Our Fresno Personal Injury Lawyers Will Fight to Recover What You're OwedHow Our Fresno Catastrophic Injury Lawyers Can Help
We pride ourselves in offering client-focused legal representation from start to finish. Our small size allows us to offer our clients the personal touch, accessibility, and cost efficiency that is hard to find at larger firms. Our team of Fresno catastrophic injury attorneys prepares each case as if it were going to trial, so when you hire us to handle your case, you will be sending a strong message to the opposing side.
We will guide you through the claims-filing process and do everything possible to obtain the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. We offer free case evaluations to all of our potential clients in order to gain a better understanding of the specific needs of our clients. We serve clients in Fresno and throughout California.
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$2,000,000
Premises Liability
The client suffered severe injuries to his legs when the 2-story ladder he was climbing (which was affixed to the building), detached causing him to fall approximately 15 feet.
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$975,000
Rear-End Collision
The client was rear-ended by a commercial work truck resulting in serious neck and back injuries. After months of conservative treatment, the client eventually underwent surgical repair to her cervical spine.
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$920,000
Wrongful Death
FHV filed a lawsuit against a local agribusiness on behalf of the father and dependents of a young man whose life was cut short following the release of ammonia gas from the company's refrigeration equipment.
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$750,000
Rear-End Collision
Multiple Car Pile Up Results in $750,000 Recovery for Client.
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$650,000
Burn Injury
The driver suffered severe burns due to a salvaged vehicle catching on fire. Settled to the plaintiff for damages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Compensation Can I Seek for a Dog Bite?
Victims of dog bites in Clovis can pursue various compensations, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potentially punitive damages. Medical expenses encompass immediate treatments, surgeries, and long-term care stemming from the bite. Compensation for lost wages covers past and future income loss if your injuries prevent you from working. Pain and suffering address both physical discomfort and emotional distress post-incident. At Fowler | Helsel | Vogt, we help clients accurately calculate these damages to pursue the maximum compensation deserved.
How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite claim is typically two years from the incident date. However, certain circumstances can affect this timeline, making it crucial to consult an attorney promptly. Immediate action ensures crucial evidence preservation and witness availability. At Fowler | Helsel | Vogt, we provide free consultations to clarify your timeline and initiate your case without delay.
Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer for a Dog Bite Case?
While hiring a lawyer is not mandatory, but having a seasoned dog bite attorney in Clovis significantly boosts your chances of success. Legal processes can be complex, and without guidance, dealing with insurance companies or court navigation can lead to reduced compensation. At Fowler | Helsel | Vogt, we effectively manage all case aspects, from evidence collection to representation in negotiations or court, maximizing your compensation potential.
What If the Dog Owner Claims Provocation?
If the dog owner alleges provocation for the bite, it doesn’t exempt them from liability. California's strict liability laws require convincing proof of provocation, burdening the dog owner. At Fowler | Helsel | Vogt, our experienced attorneys counter such defenses effectively, ensuring your right to compensation is upheld. Clarifying what constitutes provocation under the law can be complex, often requiring expert testimony or detailed evidence.
Contact Our Dog Bite Lawyer in Clovis Today
Facing a dog bite incident can be daunting, but our experienced team at Fowler | Helsel | Vogt is here to simplify the process. Thanks to our no-fee guarantee, we are committed to supporting you during this difficult time with no upfront fees. We navigate the legal complexities so you can focus on healing. Let us advocate vigorously for you, securing the fair compensation necessary for a complete recovery.
Every client relationship is based on trust, respect, and dedication to achieving a favorable outcome. From your initial contact with Fowler | Helsel | Vogt, you will experience a legal partnership relentlessly focused on advocating for the justice you deserve. Let us stand by you and work tirelessly to ensure your legal needs are met with the utmost professionalism and care.
Contact us today to get started with our Clovis dog bite attorney.
