Norfolk Dog Bite Lawyer

Few personal injuries are more traumatic and legally complex than dog bites. Even when the victim survives, life can be drastically different, with permanent scarring, loss of a limb or eye, or long-term psychological harm. Victims also face medical treatment costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you or your child have suffered a dog bite, the pet owner should be held responsible for your damages. I’m Ed Atkinson, a Norfolk dog bite lawyer with a track record of success in these cases, winning hundreds of thousands of dollars for my clients.

Reach out to Atkinson Law today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with me, your dedicated Norfolk personal injury lawyer.

Pursuing a Settlement After a Norfolk Dog Attack

In Virginia, careless animal owners can be held liable for injuries and financial losses their pets cause. As a result, victims of dog bites may be entitled to compensatory damages.

Recoverable damages may include the following:

• Medical expenses, such as hospital bills, plastic surgery, and rehabilitation costs
• Loss of earnings due to time away from work while recovering
• Pain and suffering caused by the physical and emotional trauma of the dog bite
• Scarring and disfigurement resulting from the bite
• Property damage, such as torn clothing or broken glasses

Please keep in mind that all animal bite injury cases are different. Case values and settlement amounts depend on several factors, including the injuries’ severity, location, and the cost of the victim’s medical bills.

Dog Bite Claims Are Different From Other Personal Injury Claims

Like other accident claims, dog bite injuries in Virginia arise out of the legal principle of negligence or failure to use “ordinary care.” However, obtaining a fair settlement after a dog bite can be particularly challenging.

A victim must prove that the dog owner or handler knew or should have known the dog could injure someone or that the owner or handler was violating a leash law or other safety standard.

Why the “One-Bite Rule” Is Misleading

Many people who should know better, including many attorneys and homeowners insurance adjusters, believe that Virginia dog bite injury law allows every animal one free bite.

Fortunately, while a prior bite is the best evidence of an owner’s knowledge of a dog’s tendencies, it’s not the only way to prove negligence.

I have settled many cases without evidence of a prior bite incident, including a $300,000 settlement in a 2020 pit bull attack in Chesapeake.

I Am Skilled at Proving Dog Owner Negligence

At Atkinson Law, I apply my knowledge of dogs and dog breeds to build effective personal injury cases. I am adept at proving dog owner negligence and uncovering problems with the dog’s training and past behaviors.

This has been particularly true in “rehabilitated” pit bull cases, including a 2018 case in which I settled for $47,000. However, such results take skill and experience.

Personal Experience With Aggressive Dog Breeds

I am a passionate dog bite lawyer in Norfolk who owns, breeds, trains, and competes with my own personal protection dogs (Belgian Shepherd Malinois, which is the preferred breed for military and law enforcement work).

With knowledge, patience, and care, the canine-human bond can be sublime, balancing unparalleled loyalty with incredible power. However, owning a dog means you are responsible for knowing the breed’s capabilities and the temperament of your dog.

Not All “Tough” Dogs Have a Vicious Nature

Certainly, not all pit bulls are vicious, and not all “tough” dogs (Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Cane Corsos, Presa Canarios, Dutch Shepherds, and Doberman Pinschers, for example) will defend their owner by biting.

That said, small breeds can also bite and cause physical injuries, especially to small children. If you or a loved one has been bitten, please realize that no dog bite lawyer will understand the underlying canine behavior to the extent that I will.

My reputation, personal experience, knowledge of dog psychology, and passion for justice make me a powerful ally for your dog bite injury claim.

Reach Out to Me After Any Animal Attack, Including a Fatal One

Unfortunately, fatal dog attacks can and do occur. In these cases, the emotional and financial toll on the victim’s family can be devastating. That’s why working with an experienced dog bite attorney who understands the complexities of fatal dog bite cases is vital.

As a Norfolk wrongful death lawyer, I provide compassionate and experienced legal representation for families who have lost a loved one due to a dog attack. I understand this is a difficult and emotional time, and I will work tirelessly to get justice for your loved one.

If you’ve lost a family member due to a dog bite or attack, please get in touch with me for a free consultation. I can help you understand your options and provide legal advice regarding your next steps. Let’s work together to hold the negligent dog owner responsible.

Time Limit for Taking Legal Action After a Dog Bite

Virginia law places a two-year limit on filing a civil lawsuit for personal injury or wrongful death. This strict deadline applies to a wide range of cases, including those involving dog bites.

It is important to note that special circumstances can extend the deadline. Cases involving minors are a prime example. If you are uncertain whether your case falls within the allowable time frame, call me, and I can determine that for you.

Even if you have close to two years left, building a solid case takes time, which is why it’s best to take action soon after the incident.

I Can File Your Lawsuit Before the Deadline

While time is of the essence when it comes to filing a civil claim, I can navigate any exceptions or extenuating circumstances that may exempt your case from the normal limitation period.

Contacting me as early as possible will protect your right to recover fair compensation. I offer free consultations and will help you understand your legal rights. In addition, I handle cases on a contingency-fee basis, meaning I only get paid when I get you a settlement or court award.

Contact Me, Your Norfolk Dog Bite Lawyer

If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite in the Hampton Roads area, it’s crucial to partner with a knowledgeable Norfolk dog bite attorney. Insurance companies can be deceptive and exploit dog bite victims, so having a skilled lawyer is essential.

I understand insurance companies’ deceptive tactics and have extensive knowledge of dog bite law. Contact me today to schedule a free consultation and learn about your options. Atkinson Law aggressively represents dog bite victims and their families.

Call my Norfolk office or fill out the online contact form for a free consultation.