402-999-9000
Dog bites are traumatic experiences that leave victims with physical, emotional, and financial scars. If a dog has bitten you or a loved one in Omaha, you may feel overwhelmed, confused, and unsure of your legal rights. It’s essential to understand that you have rights and that an experienced Omaha dog bite lawyer with Mueller Schmidt Mulholland & Cooling can help you seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Call 402-999-9000 or contact us online for a free consultation, and let’s demand justice together.
The Physical and Emotional Impact of Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause a range of injuries, from minor scratches and bruises to severe lacerations, puncture wounds, and even bone fractures. In some cases, bites can lead to serious complications, such as infection, nerve damage, and permanent scarring. The physical pain and recovery process can be lengthy and challenging, often requiring medical treatment, surgery, and rehabilitation.
In addition to the physical injuries, the victims of dog bites may also suffer from emotional trauma, such as:
- Fear and anxiety around dogs
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Nightmares and flashbacks
- Depression and social withdrawal
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
These emotional scars can be just as damaging as any physical wounds and may require ongoing therapy and support to overcome.
Nebraska’s Dog Bite Laws
In Nebraska, dog owners are held strictly liable for any injuries their dogs cause, regardless of whether the owner knew or should have known about the dog’s dangerous propensities. This means that even if a dog has never bitten anyone previously, the owner can still be held responsible for the victim’s injuries and losses.
There are some exceptions to this rule, such as:
- If the victim was trespassing on the dog owner’s property
- If the victim was committing a crime or attempting to commit a crime
- If the victim provoked the dog
Furthermore, if the dog’s behavior was playful or mischievous in nature, the injured party may have to prove that its owner should have known the dog posed a threat and failed to correct its behavior. Contact a lawyer immediately if the dog’s owner attempts to use this defense.
Seeking Compensation for Your Dog Bite Injuries
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Omaha, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses, including:
-
Medical expenses, such as emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation
-
Lost wages and income if you missed work due to your injuries
-
Pain and suffering
-
Emotional distress and trauma
-
Scarring and disfigurement
-
Loss of quality of life
An experienced Omaha dog bite lawyer can help you determine the extent of your losses and build a solid case for the compensation you are entitled to.
Investigating Your Dog Bite Case
To build a strong dog bite case, your attorney will investigate the incident and gather as much supporting evidence as possible. This may involve:
-
Obtaining medical records and bills related to your injuries
-
Interviewing witnesses who saw the dog bite occur
-
Reviewing police reports or animal control records
-
Investigating the dog’s history and any prior incidents of aggression
-
Consulting with medical experts to assess the severity of your injuries and long-term prognosis
Your attorney will use this evidence to demonstrate the extent of your losses and the liability of the dog owner.
Dealing with Insurance Companies after a Dog Bite
In many cases, a dog owner’s homeowners or renters insurance policy will cover the victim’s damages. However, dealing with insurance companies can be daunting, as they often prioritize their own financial interests over a victim’s needs.
Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize the severity of your injuries, dispute liability, or offer a low settlement that will not compensate you fully for your losses. It’s essential to have an experienced Omaha dog bite lawyer on your side who fight back against these tactics and negotiate forcefully for the full amount you deserve.
Your attorney will handle all communications with the insurance company, present evidence to support your claim, and seek a fair settlement. If the insurance company refuses to settle, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial and fight for your rights in court.
The Importance of Acting Quickly after Being Attacked by a Dog
Acting promptly after a dog bite incident is crucial to protecting your legal rights and preserving evidence. In Nebraska, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including a dog bite claim, is generally four years from the date of the incident.
That said, it’s advisable to consult with a lawyer as soon after a bite as possible. The sooner your attorney can investigate your case, the stronger your claim will be. Prompt legal action can also help you receive the medical care and support you need to recover from your injuries.
Choosing the Right Omaha Dog Bite Lawyer
When selecting an attorney to represent you in a dog bite case, it’s essential that you choose someone with the knowledge and dedication to advocate for your rights. Some key factors to consider include:
- Experience handling dog bite cases in Omaha and the surrounding areas
- Knowledge of Nebraska’s dog bite laws and the legal process
- A track record of success in obtaining fair settlements and verdicts for clients
- Strong communication skills and a commitment to keeping you informed throughout your case
- Compassion and understanding for the physical and emotional challenges you are facing
By choosing an Omaha dog bite lawyer with these qualities, you can have confidence that your case is in capable hands and that you have a strong advocate.
Contact Our Omaha Dog Bite Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one suffered a dog bite in Omaha, don’t hesitate to seek the legal help you need to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. At Mueller Schmidt Mulholland & Cooling, we are ready to put our six decades of combined legal experience to work pursuing justice and money on your behalf – and we’ll do so at no upfront cost to you. Contact us today at 402-999-9000 to schedule your free consultation and find out more about how we can help you with your dog bite case.
