Virginia Dog Bite Attorneys

Results-Oriented Representation for Dog Bite Victims in Annandale

A dog attack can happen in an instant. A peaceful walk in the park or a stroll through your neighborhood may be suddenly interrupted by an enormous, howling animal that attacks without warning. These traumatic events can leave both physical and emotional scars. In Virginia, pet owners bear legal responsibility for the injuries their animals cause when they know or should have known about their dog’s violent potential to behave violently.

If you recently suffered injuries in connection with a dog attack, you should not wait to explore your legal options. At Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC, our team is prepared to offer you the dedicated and comprehensive representation you need to recover total and fair compensation for your injuries. Our Virginia dog bite lawyers are familiar with the intricacies of the state’s laws governing these incidents. They will leverage the full extent of our resources in our fight to deliver the best possible outcome.

Call Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC today at (888) 482-3882 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our dog bite attorney in Virginia!

Understanding Virginia’s Dog Bite Laws

Virginia follows a version of the “one-bite rule,” meaning a pet owner is not automatically liable for their pet's violent actions. Under the one-bite rule, a dog's owner can be held legally liable if the dog has previously demonstrated vicious behavior or bitten someone. The one-bite rule assumes that if a dog has bitten once, the owner is aware of the dog's propensity for aggression and should take necessary precautions to prevent future incidents.

However, there are scenarios where the owner might not be held legally responsible even if the dog has a history of violent behavior. The owner may not be if the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or engaging in illegal activities at the time of the incident. For example, if the victim appeared to be attacking or about to attack the pet’s owner, and the dog bites the would-be assailant to defend them, the owner may not be liable for the dog’s actions. 

On the other hand, certain types of trespassers who suffer dog bites may still have a case. Young children and other individuals who unknowingly trespass on private property may still be able to take legal action if an attacking animal injures them under the one-bite rule. 

The laws surrounding dog bite liability can be confusing because Virginia is not a strict liability state regarding dog bites. Our Virginia dog bite attorneys can review your circumstances and advise whether you have a strong case. 

Essential Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Virginia

Taking swift action after experiencing a dog bite is crucial for protecting your health and legal rights. After ensuring your immediate safety and getting medical assistance, follow these essential steps:

• Document the Incident: Capture photographs of your injuries, the location of the attack, and any damage to your property. It’s also essential to gather the dog owner’s information and collect contact details of any witnesses who may have seen the incident.
• Report the Attack:  Report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement. Filing an official report helps create a record of the event, which can be helpful if you decide to pursue legal action later.
• Seek Legal Assistance: Contact a knowledgeable attorney familiar with Virginia’s dog bite laws. An experienced lawyer can clarify your rights, assist in building a solid case, and help you pursue compensation for your injuries.

Taking these actions can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome, especially if there is a dispute over liability or the dog has a history of aggressive behavior.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Some may consider a dog bite no big deal, but the unfortunate reality is that these attacks can cause lasting and even life-altering injuries. Large breeds of dogs, especially if they attack repeatedly, are capable of causing significant damage in a relatively short period of time. Regardless of their severity, all dog bite injuries warrant immediate medical attention.

Common dog bite injuries include: 

• Puncture wounds. These are deep, narrow wounds produced by the sharp canine teeth of dogs. Puncture wounds can damage deep tissues and lead to severe infections if not treated promptly.
• Lacerations and cuts. Open wounds are caused by a dog's teeth cutting through the skin. Depending upon the force of the bite, these lacerations can damage muscles, tendons, or even bones underneath.
• Crush injuries. Dogs have powerful jaws capable of exerting significant force. In some cases, a dog bite can lead to crushing injuries, damaging the underlying bone or joint.
• Infections. Dog mouths carry a range of bacteria that can lead to infection if transferred into a wound. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain, and fever.
• Emotional trauma. Not all injuries from a dog bite are physical. Many victims suffer emotional trauma following an attack, which can lead to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), fear of dogs (cynophobia), and other psychological issues.

Compensation for Dog Bite Victims in Virginia