Minneapolis Dog Bite Injury Attorney
Being attacked by a dog is a terrifying experience that can leave you with more than just physical scars. The emotional trauma and the sudden weight of medical bills can feel overwhelming. At 612-INJURED, we have seen how quickly a peaceful walk or a visit to a friend’s house can turn into a life-altering event. If you or a member of your family has been bitten, we want you to know that you do not have to navigate the recovery process alone. Having a dedicated Minneapolis dog bite injury attorney by your side can make a significant difference in how you recover and the compensation you receive.
Minnesota laws are designed to protect victims of animal attacks, but the legal process is rarely simple. Insurance companies often try to minimize what happened or suggest that you were somehow at fault. Our role is to step in and handle these challenges for you, ensuring that your rights are respected and that the person responsible for the animal is held accountable under the law.
Understanding Minnesota’s Strict Liability Laws
One of the most important things we explain to our clients is that Minnesota follows a strict liability standard for dog bites. This is a significant advantage for victims compared to states that follow a “one-bite” rule. In some parts of the country, an owner might not be responsible if their dog had never shown aggression before. However, here in Minnesota, the law holds the owner or the person “harboring” the dog responsible even if the animal has never bitten anyone in the past.
As your Minnesota dog bite injury lawyer, we focus on proving the core elements required by the state statute. To hold an owner liable, we generally need to show that you were acting peaceably, that you were in a place where you had a legal right to be, and that you did not provoke the dog. Whether the attack happened on a public sidewalk, in a local park, or while you were a guest on someone’s private property, the owner is typically responsible for the full amount of the damages you sustained.
How We Help You Recover After an Attack
Our approach to your case starts with a thorough investigation. We believe that every detail matters, from the moment the dog approached you to the specific medical treatments you required afterward. When we take on your case, we handle all the heavy lifting so you can focus on healing. Here is how we work to support your claim:
- Gathering Evidence: We collect witness statements, photos of your injuries, and records from animal control to build a comprehensive picture of the incident.
- Identifying Liable Parties: Sometimes, the legal owner is not the only person responsible. The law can also apply to “keepers” or “harborers” who were in control of the dog at the time.
- Managing Insurance Adjusters: We take over all communication with the insurance companies. They are looking for reasons to pay us less; we are looking for ways to maximize your recovery.
- Documenting the Full Impact: A bite involves more than just immediate pain. We ensure we account for future medical needs, such as scar revision surgery or therapy for psychological trauma.
The Types of Compensation We Pursue
The costs associated with a dog bite can be staggering. Many people do not realize that the physical wound is often just the beginning of the financial burden. When our firm represents you, we look at the “total cost” of the injury. This includes the obvious medical bills for stitches or antibiotics, but it also goes much deeper. If you have permanent scarring, especially on the face or hands, that can impact your confidence and your career for the rest of your life.
We also prioritize the emotional side of these cases. It is common for victims, especially children, to develop a long-term fear of animals or suffer from post-traumatic stress. We work to ensure that your settlement covers the cost of counseling and compensates you for the pain and suffering you have endured. Whether it is lost wages from time missed at work or the cost of physical therapy to regain movement in a damaged limb, our goal is to recover every dollar you are entitled to under Minnesota law.
Why the Right Representation Matters
Choosing a Minneapolis personal injury attorney means choosing a team that understands the local courts and the specific nuances of the Minnesota statutes. We take pride in being a voice for those who have been hurt. Many dog bites involve animals owned by neighbors or even friends, which can make the situation socially awkward or difficult to navigate. We handle these cases with the sensitivity they require, often working directly with homeowners’ insurance policies so that the compensation comes from the insurance provider rather than the individual’s pocket.
At 612-INJURED, we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means we do not charge you any attorney fees unless we successfully recover money for you. This allows you to get high-quality legal help without any upfront financial risk. We are committed to fighting for the residents of Minneapolis and ensuring that our community remains safe for everyone.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one is dealing with the aftermath of an animal attack, please do not wait to seek help. Evidence can disappear, and witnesses’ memories can fade over time. The sooner we can begin investigating your case, the stronger your claim will be. Our Minneapolis dog bite injury attorney is here to listen to your story, answer your questions, and give you an honest assessment of your legal options. Contact us today, recovery starts now.