Dog (or Other Pet) Bites

Serving All Areas of Maryland, Washington, DC and Northern Virginia

Washington DC Dog Bite AttorneyThere are about 70 million dogs in the United States, making them the most common domesticated animal in the country. In fact, nearly half of all U.S. households include a dog, and many people treat their dog more like a family member than a pet.

Dogs can be loyal and lovable companions, but they are still animals — with all the instincts and defensive reactions of a typical animal. Certain breeds have powerful jaws that can crush bones and cause devastating injuries. Although some dogs attack because they are frightened or hurt, other dogs bite because they are vicious or poorly trained.

Dogs can also attack when their owners fail to properly fence, crate, leash, or otherwise secure them. If you or your child has been attacked by a dog, you deserve compensation for your injuries.

At Mesirow & Associates, PLLC, we are Washington, D.C. personal injury lawyers who help victims of dog bites get the money they need to pay their medical bills and other costs.

Locations, We Are Serving For:

  • Maryland
  • Washington, DC
  • Northern Virginia
Strict Liability for Dog Bites

Like most jurisdictions, Washington, D.C. has a strict liability statute when it comes to dog bites. Under the law, dog owners are automatically responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, as long as the injury victim did not trespass on the owner’s property or provoke the dog to attack. The law makes the dog’s owner liable for injuries caused by the dog regardless of whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous or likely to bite.

Don’t Hesitate to get the Compensation You Deserve

In some cases, people are reluctant to file a lawsuit after suffering a dog bite. This is because many dog bite victims know the owner of the dog that attacked them. They might be good friends, neighbors, or even a family member of the dog’s owner. Understandably, they worry that filing a lawsuit seeking money damages could drive a permanent wedge in their friendship or relationship.

Although this is a reasonable and even logical way to think, it’s important to remember that the majority of dog bite attorney are defended by a dog owner’s insurance carrier.

When you sue the dog owner, the insurance company steps into their shoes to defend the lawsuit — a legal term known as “subrogation.” Don’t forego the compensation you need because you are concerned about hurting someone’s feelings. Once they see how serious your injuries are, they are likely to understand why you have no choice but to pursue a claim. The Seriousness of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite injuries can be devastating — especially in children. Because small children usually stand as high as a dog’s head, they are particularly prone to injuries around the face and neck. Children can also suffer long-term emotional and mental stress after experiencing a dog bite attack.

They may also require costly cosmetic procedures to repair damage and restore function. Few families have the resources or insurance coverage to pay for repeat surgical procedures and therapy. This is why it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after a dog bite incident.

Contact an Experienced Washington DC Dog Bite Attorney

If you or your child has suffered a dog bite injury, the Washington DC dog bite attorney at Mesirow & Associates, PLLC can help you get the money you need to pay your medical bills and other damages. Don’t wait to speak to an experienced lawyer about your case. Schedule your free case evaluation today by calling 866-463-0303.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
John is phenomenal! His staff immediately took me under their wing and he truly became like family to me. A couple of years ago I was involved in an animal attack that truly changed my life. They maintained integrity and humanity in every way to properly navigate my ordeal. I cannot recommend this firm enough, hands down. Tiana Mapp
★★★★★
John is a gem and I'm tremendously glad that I connected with him. Wanting to put my accident behind me ASAP and minimize time and energy spent toward that end, I made the rookie mistake of attempting to settle on my own. I eventually reached an impasse with the insurance company but simply couldn't bring myself to accept their settlement offer. Drained by all the back-and-forth at this point, I didn't thoroughly research options (which is, ironically, a big part of my reason for not obtaining a lawyer in the first place - there are an overwhelming number of personal injury lawyers in the area!) and simply contacted the first lawyer from whom, simply put, I got a good Google vibe - enter John. That positive impression was immediately confirmed via our first phone call (for which he made himself available that very same day) and further cemented throughout subsequent meetings. John exceeded expectations in every metric, netting me over double the initial offer despite my less-than-ideal handling of everything at the outset. He answered every question I had with ease and honesty and was always available and communicative throughout the process. John is personable, compassionate, transparent, and very good at what he does! I can't recommend him highly enough - hope to never need him again but if so, he will now be my first text! Samantha Musser
★★★★★
Dear John,
It has been a pleasure being your client. I really appreciate your patience and willingness to explain complicated legal jargon in layman’s terms. May you have continued success always. Sincerely,
Corenthia P., Prince George's County, Maryland
★★★★★
Thank you so much for your professional service and kind manner. Wishing you the best. Sincerely, Pearl I., Washington, DC
★★★★★
John, I just got back from abroad and I wanted to drop you a note thanking you for your work on my case. I’m totally satisfied with your work and I wouldn’t hesitate to give your name to anyone in a similar situation. Take care. Thanks. Ned Mitchell, Washington, DC bicycle accident victim
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Toll Free: 866-463-0303