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Las Vegas Dog Bite Lawyers

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According to the Humane Society of the United States, there are approximately 77.5 million dogs in the U.S., with about 39 percent of all households owning at least one dog. It should come as no surprise, then, to learn there are a relatively high number of dog bite attacks in the U.S. every year.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that an estimated 4.7 million people suffer dog bite injuries annually. Every year, approximately 800,000 seek medical attention at hospitals for dog bite injuries, and around half of these victims are young children. About half of those injured, around 386,000, require emergency treatment. As the result of dog bite injuries, there are about 16 fatalities in the U.S. annually.

Victims of dog bites in Nevada often suffer severe physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. It is important for all injured victims of animal attacks to understand their legal rights, which is why it may be in their best interests to seek the counsel of a skilled Las Vegas personal injury lawyer.

Nevada Dog Bite Law

A Nevada dog owner can be found criminally liable for a person’s dog bite injuries caused by their animal, and can be sued by the victim for their negligence. Under section 202.500 of the Nevada Code, a dog owner can face criminal penalties if their dog is considered to be dangerous or vicious, and the dog causes a person "substantial bodily harm."

A dog is classified as "dangerous" under Nevada law if, without being provoked, on two different instances within 18 months, the animal behaves in a menacing manner, to such an extent that would cause a "reasonable person" to defend themselves against substantial bodily harm when the animal is not on the owner’s premises or not confined to a vehicle, pen, or cage.

Nevada law considers a dog to be "vicious" if the animal imposes substantial bodily harm on a person or kills them without being provoked.

It is a misdemeanor for dog owner to keep an animal that is known to be vicious for more than a week may. If an owner’s dog is known to be vicious and causes a person substantial bodily harm in a dog bite attack, they can also be found guilty of a felony. In addition, the owner may also face civil liability for a dog bite attack victim’s injuries. All dog owners have a legal duty to maintain a level of safety with their animals, and if an owner fails to meet their duty and someone is injured by their dog as a result, the owner may be able to be held responsible for a victim’s injuries and related damages and losses. In Nevada, there is a statute of limitations of two years for dog bite attacks.

Forms of Compensation Available to Nevada Animal Attack Victims

Expenses that result from an animal or dog bite attack can add up quickly. If the victim chooses to file a personal injury claim, they may receive compensation for all injuries, damages, and losses sustained as a result of the attack. Such damages typically include:

  • All injury-related medical expenses: This should include the emergency room visit, any related surgeries, and any medication that is required after a dog or animal attack.
  • Lost wages: When someone is seriously injured by a dog or animal, they may have to miss work for a prolonged period of time. A Las Vegas personal injury claim should cover the time that a victim had to spend away from work.
  • Physical pain: All injuries are painful, but some serious injuries result in an extended period of severe pain. For the most serious injuries, financial compensation may be available for the physical pain suffered as the result of an accident or animal or dog attack.
  • Emotional distress: Dog attacks not only affect victims at a physical level, but also at an emotional and psychological level. Animal attack victims can experience anxiety, panic, paranoia, and other disorders which may require therapy and counseling.

Having the Right Representation

Dog bite injury cases in Nevada can be complex, and determining fault and liability may not be as easy as it appears. If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite or animal attack, please contact an experienced Nevada dog bite lawyer at Shook & Stone. We have an excellent track record of securing compensation for injured victims and their families. Call us today to find out how we can help you.