Overview of the Incident
Shook & Stone is currently representing a pest control worker who nearly lost his hands in a pit bull attack. Scott Fieger had been a pest control worker for more than 25 years when the on-the-job attack occurred in a North Las Vegas backyard.
Fieger arrived at the residential home to spray the premises as he had been hired to do. After seeing that the gate was unlocked and not hearing any barking, he proceeded into the yard to complete his job.
It was there that he met with two aggressive, loose pit bulls who began viciously attacking him. The mauling went on for a long time before he was somehow able to make it back out of the yard, locking the gate behind him. [1]
Injuries Sustained by Worker
After the attack, Mr. Fieger recalls seeing the dogs “drenched” in his blood. He said he is traumatized by this incident and that, as far as he is aware, the Pit Bull owner is not cooperating. Animal control authorities have taken possession of the two pit bulls and are investigating the case. The owners may face criminal liability for the attack under NRS 202.500. [2]
Fieger needed between 700 and 800 stitches and suffered ripped tendons and shattered bones. It will be about four to six weeks before doctors will know if he will ever regain full use of his hands.
We at Shook & Stone are working hard to protect the rights of Mr. Fieger and bring him the compensation he needs to make a full recovery. A GoFundMe was started to raise money for Mr. Fieger’s recovery.
Legal Liability in Animal Attacks
Animal attacks can be quite serious, and they often lead to criminal or civil liability for the animal owner. In the case of Mr. Fieger, the owners of the two pit bulls may face criminal charges under Nevada Revised Statute 202.500, which states that an animal’s owner is liable if their pet “ kills or injures any person or other animal.”
In addition, the animal owners may also face strict liability for the attack. Under Nevada law, an animal’s owner can be held liable for civil damages caused by their pet if they knew or should have known that the pet posed a risk of harm. It is likely that Mr. Fieger will pursue a civil lawsuit against the owners of the two pit bulls.
Punitive Damages for Neglect of Animals
Punitive damages may also be awarded in cases of animal attacks. Punitive damages are awarded when the court finds that the defendant’s actions were particularly egregious, and they serve as a deterrent to prevent similar behavior in the future.
In cases involving animal attacks, punitive damages may be awarded if it can be proved that the animal’s owner was negligent in their care of the pet or had knowledge that the pet posed a risk of harm.
Medical Expenses Covered Under Liability Insurance Plan
When a pet owner is found liable for an animal attack, the victim may seek compensation for any medical expenses incurred as a result of the attack. This includes hospital bills, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and any other related costs. Liability insurance policies typically cover these medical expenses.
In addition to covering medical expenses, liability insurance policies may also cover lost wages and other associated costs. It is important to speak with an experienced attorney if you have been injured in an animal attack, as they can help ensure you are properly compensated for your injuries.
Consequences For Other Animals and Owners Involved in Attack
In cases of animal attacks, the consequences for the other animals and their owners can be severe. The owner could potentially face both criminal charges and civil penalties, including punitive damages, if it can be proven that they were negligent or aware of the potential harm their pet could cause. Punitive or exemplary damages are intended to serve as a deterrent or punishment for wrongful behavior. [3]
In addition to the legal consequences, the animal involved in the attack may be seized by an animal control officer and euthanized. This can be a difficult decision to make, but it is intended to keep other animals and people safe from future attacks by this particular pet. In some cases, the owner of the animal may also have restrictions placed on their ability to own animals in the future.
Shook & Stone: Your Las Vegas Dog Bite Lawyer
According to Nevada state law, it is illegal to own, keep, or transfer ownership of a “vicious” dog, which is defined as a dog that injures or kills a person without provocation.
Dog bite victims are encouraged to get in touch with a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer to learn more about their rights and whether they are entitled to compensation. To set up a free case evaluation, call Shook & Stone at (702) 570-0000.
Sources:
[1] Valley pest control worker mauled by pit bulls. (2016, April 28). KTNV 13 Action News Las Vegas. https://www.ktnv.com/news/valley-pest-control-worker-mauled-by-dogs-while-on-the-job
[2] NRS 202.500 Dangerous or vicious dogs: Unlawful acts; penalties | https://law.justia.com/codes/nevada/2010/title15/chapter202/nrs202-500.html
[3] Publications Committee of the State Bar of Nevada. (2018). Nevada Jury Instructions. In ag.nv.gov. Retrieved July 11, 2023, from https://ag.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/agnvgov/Content/Issues/09292021_NV-Jury-Instructions-Civil-2018-PDF-version.pdf
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