(435) 767-7777Experienced Dog Bite Injury Attorneys in Orem, Utah Dog
At Swenson & Shelley Law, our Orem personal injury attorneys know about 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
While most Utah dog bites are inflicted on children, adults can suffer significant injuries from a single bite or attack, especially when bitten by a large breed animal — or worse, a dangerous dog breed, including pit bull terriers and rottweilers.
If you, your child, or another loved one was bitten or attacked by a dog, contact our experienced Utah County personal injury lawyers to learn who can be held liable and pursued for your damages.
What are the Most Common Injuries Associated with Dog Bites?
Dog bites can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe, depending on factors such as the size and breed of the dog, the location and depth of the bite, and the victim’s age and health. It is estimated around 1 in 5 dog bite victims — or 885,000 people per year — require medical attention.
If you have been bitten by a dog, it is vital to seek medical attention promptly, even if the injury seems minor, to assess the extent of the damage and reduce the risk of complications.
Some of the most common injuries caused by dog bites in Utah include, but are not limited to:
- Puncture Wounds
Dog bites often result in puncture wounds, which can vary in severity depending on the size and strength of the dog’s jaws, causing tissue damage, infection, and scarring.
- Lacerations
Dog bites can cause deep cuts and lacerations, especially if the dog bites and shakes its head, causing tearing of the skin and underlying tissues that may require stitches or other medical interventions to heal correctly.
- Soft Tissue Injuries
Dog bites can cause damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, leading to strains, sprains, or tears that result in pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the affected area.
- Fractures and Broken Bones
In severe cases, dog bites can result in fractures or broken bones that may require surgery or immobilization with casts or braces to heal correctly, particularly if the victim tries to defend themselves or escape from the dog’s attack.
- Nerve Damage
Dog bites can damage nerves in the affected area, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation that may be temporary or permanent, depending on the extent of the injury.
- Infections
Dog bites can introduce bacteria into the body, increasing the risk of infection, including:
- Abscesses.
- Cellulitis.
- Septicemia (blood poisoning).
Prompt medical treatment, including antibiotics, is essential to prevent infection complications.
- Emotional Trauma
Dog bites can cause emotional trauma, especially in children, who may develop a fear of dogs or experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following the attack that requires counseling or therapy may be necessary to address emotional distress.
In some cases, dog bite victims may require extensive medical care, including one or more surgeries. In a typical year, plastic surgeons perform around 30,000 reconstructive procedures on dog bite victims nationwide.
If you have been bitten by a dog in Utah, contact our skilled personal injury lawyers in Orem today to learn who can be held liable for your full financial recovery.
Who is Liable for Dog Bite Injuries in Utah?
In Utah, we have a “strict liability” law. This means the dog owner is automatically liable when their dog bites someone. It doesn’t matter that the dog had never bitten someone before, that the dog was well-trained, or that the dog was scared.
In most cases, our dog bite attorneys will pursue the dog owner’s home or property owner’s insurance coverage for their financial recovery needs. This is important because most dog bites – — an estimated 75% — are inflicted by a known dog. These dog owners can be neighbors, friends, or family members the victim may not be comfortable pursuing directly for their injuries.
At Swenson & Shelley, our Orem dog bite injury attorneys recommend you seek the medical care you need and document any damages with pictures and video before contacting our Utah law firm for help. We will take the lead in pursuing the dog owner’s insurance coverage directly so you can preserve your relationship while we handle the details and secure the financial recovery you need to move forward with confidence.
What is My Utah Dog Bite Injury Claim Worth?
Determining the value of a dog bite injury claim in Utah depends on various factors, including the extent of your injuries, the medical treatment required, the impact of the injuries on your life, and any associated damages.
Our Orem dog bite injury attorneys will assess your unique claim and pursue all associated damages, which may include:
- Current and Future Medical Expenses.
- Lost Income.
- Loss of Earning Capacity.
- Scarring and Disfigurement.
- Pain and Suffering.
- Emotional Distress.
Our Attorneys Also Focus on the Following Areas:
Contact Our Dog Bite Attorneys in Orem Today
Call our trusted dog bite injury attorneys in Orem at Swenson & Shelley Law today at (385)-626-7197 or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation where you can learn immediately whether your claim is eligible to move forward with legal action.
We do not charge any fees upfront for our services. Instead, you pay us only if we secure payment for you. That makes getting legal help accessible and allows you to focus on your recovery. Contact us now to learn more.
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Frequently Asked Questions For Our Orem Dog Bite Lawyers
Do I need a lawyer if I was bitten by a dog?
While it’s not always necessary to have a lawyer for a dog bite case, it’s highly recommended. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation.
What should I do immediately after a dog bite in Orem?
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Orem, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately to prevent infections and document your injuries. Report the bite to local authorities, gather the dog owner’s contact information, take photos of the injury, and consult a dog bite attorney at Swenson & Shelley Law to understand your legal options.
Can I sue the dog owner for my injuries in Utah?
Yes, Utah law holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs, meaning you can sue the owner regardless of the dog’s history. At Swenson & Shelley Law, we can help you navigate the legal process to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.
How much compensation can I receive for a dog bite injury in Orem?
The amount of compensation depends on the severity of the injury, medical costs, and the impact on your life. Factors such as lost wages, pain and suffering, and scarring are also considered. Our team at Swenson & Shelley Law can evaluate your case and help you understand the potential value of your claim.
What if the dog owner claims my injury was my fault?
In Utah, dog owners are typically held strictly liable for bites, but they may argue that you provoked the dog or were trespassing. At Swenson & Shelley Law, we’ll gather evidence to refute these claims and fight for your right to compensation, even if the dog owner is trying to shift the blame.
Is there a time limit to file a dog bite injury claim in Utah?
Yes, in Utah, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including dog bites, is four years from the date of the injury. However, it’s best to contact Swenson & Shelley Law as soon as possible to preserve evidence and ensure your case is filed on time.
Can a dog bite attorney help if the dog was not previously aggressive?
Yes, under Utah’s strict liability law, a dog owner can be held responsible for a bite even if the dog has no history of aggression or biting. Swenson & Shelley Law can help you pursue compensation regardless of the dog’s past behavior.
What if I was bitten by a friend's dog?
Even if the dog that bit you belongs to a friend, you are still entitled to compensation. Many dog bite claims are covered by the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, so the compensation often comes from insurance, not directly from your friend. Swenson & Shelley Law can guide you through this sensitive situation.
