A dog bite can be very harmful and it can cause long term problems. In this article we’ll cover some of the damages that you could be entitled to if you’re bitten by a dog. Specifically, we’ll discuss noneconomic damages and punitive damages.
Insurance companies exclude coverage for dangerous dog breeds
Many home insurance companies ban certain breeds of dogs. These types of dog restrictions can affect coverage and liability when your dog is injured or bitten. The following are some of the most common breeds that are banned.
Pit bulls, Great Danes, and Rottweilers are among the most common. Other dog breeds that are considered to be dangerous include Presa Canarios, Akitas, German Shepherds, and Wolf/wolf hybrids.
If you own one of these types of dogs, you might have to pay a higher premium. Some insurers will only cover your pet if you provide evidence of obedience training or a proof of socialization classes. However, many insurers will only deny your home insurance policy if they determine that your dog is a danger.
Also be aware of: How long does it take to get money from a dog bite?
Several states have passed legislation that prohibits discrimination against specific dog breeds. In Pennsylvania, for example, the law states that the insurance company cannot refuse to insure a dog based on its breed.
Another state, Nevada, passed similar legislation. Meanwhile, Illinois and New York also have laws that limit the amount of discrimination against certain dog breeds that can occur in home insurance policies.
Long-term effects of a dog bite
The long-term effects of a dog bite can be devastating. Survivors can develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as depression and anxiety. These conditions can affect the victim’s quality of life and cause nightmares.
If you have been bitten by a dog, you should contact a medical professional for treatment immediately. Infections and other complications may occur, and you should keep your wound clean to prevent infection.
When your wound has been properly cared for, it should heal quickly. However, some wounds, particularly puncture wounds, require a more extensive healing process. You should always treat a punctured area with antibiotics to avoid complications.
Some dog bites can cause permanent disfigurement, which can affect a person’s self-esteem and ability to interact with others. Depending on the injury, you may need reconstructive surgery, which will require significant medical expenses.
Traumatic scarring can also cause a substantial emotional toll. For children, the emotional impact of a dog bite can be more serious. This type of trauma can lead to a lifetime of fear of dogs.
Noneconomic damages after a dog bite
If you were attacked by a dog and suffered injuries, you may be entitled to compensation. This can include noneconomic damages such as pain and suffering, scarring, and even psychological effects. However, you will need to consult a personal injury attorney to make sure you are getting what you deserve.
Dog bites are common and can lead to a variety of harms. In addition to abrasions and puncture wounds, you may also suffer from infections and nerve damage. You might also develop a psychological effect, such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
These effects can be life-altering, but you can take steps to prevent infection. It is important to get a rabies shot, which can prevent an infection from forming. Also, make sure to keep all invoices, photos, and contact information of medical care providers and witnesses.
A skilled dog bite attorney will look at the extent of your injuries and will contact the owner’s insurance provider to discuss your case. Your lawyer will then prepare a demand and send it to the insurance company.
Punitive damages after a dog bite
A dog bite attack can lead to a number of physical and psychological consequences. Victims may suffer from physical pain, emotional distress, sleeplessness, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Dog bite victims are entitled to adequate compensation for their injuries. Depending on the nature of the incident, they might be eligible for punitive or compensatory damages.
Punitive damages are awarded to punish the offending dog owner for gross negligence or recklessness. They can also be used to prevent further acts of negligence by the dog owner. In some cases, the dog owner might be held liable for the dog’s pain.
Punitive damages are generally reserved for extreme dog bite injury cases. The court has the discretion to award them. However, the judge might refuse to allow the punitive damages if the dog’s owner was not negligent.
When calculating the amount of damages owed to a victim of a dog bite, the court considers the nature of the incident, the dog’s temperament, and the dog’s history of biting. Additionally, the victim’s health status, economic resources, and the ability to pay for the damages are factors to be taken into consideration.