Roanoke, VA Dog & Animal Bite Lawyer

Roanoke, VA Dog Bite Lawyer for Animal Attacks

Virginia follows a “one bite” rule that applies to dog bite injuries, meaning that a plaintiff may recover for injuries if an animal’s owner knew or should have known that a dog was dangerous.  Typically, if a dog previously attacked or bit someone or another companion animal, an owner may be held liable for a subsequent dog bite or attack, as they have been put on notice of the animal’s propensity for aggression.

However, even if a dog has never bitten anyone, it may still be possible to sue for damages if an owner fails to exercise reasonable care in controlling the dog.  For example, if a person fails to follow an applicable leash law, this is considered negligence and could result in liability.

As a Roanoke, VA dog bite lawyer, firm founding attorney Mark Hurt has successfully represented dog bite and other injury victims for years.  From our Roanoke office we serve clients through Roanoke County and the surrounding communities, including Salem, Cave Spring, Starkey, Vinton, Hollins, Cherry Hill, Blue Ridge, and Hanging Rock for decades.  If a dog or other animal attacked you or a loved one, we invite you to call our office to schedule a free consultation with experienced Roanoke dog bite attorney Mark Hurt.

Why Do Dogs Bite People?

Dogs are more likely to attack a person if they are:

• Protecting food, water, possessions, or puppies;
• Protecting their owner;
• Guarding their resting territory;
• Injured or sick;
• Excited
• Startled; or

What Are the Most Common Dog Bite Injuries?

No two dog bite cases are alike; however, as a personal injury firm with over two decades of experience, we see many dog and animal attacks that share common injury types, including:

• Abrasions
• Lacerations
• Puncture wounds
• Scarring
• Infections
• Tissue damage
• Rabies
• Broken bones
• Nerve damage
• Psychological disorders
• Wrongful death

Why Should I Hire an Experienced Roanoke Dog Bite Lawyer?

Virginia has specific laws that apply to dog bite cases. In addition to understanding state law, proving liability and investigating all applicable insurance policies can be an extraordinary challenge.  Consequently, it is advisable for dog bite victims (and their families) to seek the assistance of an experienced animal attack attorney who can pursue full and fair compensation.

At The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt, we have been representing injury victims for over two decades and have secured millions of dollars in compensation for damages, including (but not limited to):

• Medical bills
• Surgical costs
• Lost wages
• Lost future earnings
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Psychological trauma
• Wrongful Death

We represent injured individuals on contingency, meaning we are only entitled to a fee if we recover compensation. Further, we advance all litigation expenses while a case is ongoing – these costs are typically fully covered by a settlement or jury award.

What Can I Do If I Was Bitten by a Friend’s Dog or the Dog of a Family Member?

Dog bites are frequently caused by an animal belonging to someone that a victim is well acquainted with, such as a relative, neighbor, or friend. As such, many individuals are reluctant to sue, even when they suffer significant, life-altering injuries.

It is critical to note, though, in many cases the friend or family pet owner will not need to come directly out of pocket to cover an injury claim. If a dog owner has homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, that policy likely offers personal injury coverage for dog bites. If such as policy exists, experienced Roanoke dog bite lawyer Mark Hurt can typically recover maximum compensation from an insurer without having to sue your friend or family member.

In some cases, however, an insurance company may refuse to pay unless a suit is filed, or the owner may not have any insurance (or the insurance may not fully cover the damages sustained).  In these cases, a lawsuit may need to be filed against the pet owner.

Call Today to Schedule a Free Consultation with Experienced Animal Attack Lawyer Mark Hurt.

Firm-founding attorney and Duke Law graduate Mark Hurt has successfully represented countless dog bite victims across Virginia. If you or a loved one was attacked by a dog or other animal, we invite you to call our Roanoke office to schedule a free consultation to learn about your legal options.  In addition to our free consultation, you will never pay a fee unless we recover compensation on your behalf.