First Steps in a Lafayette Dog Bite Case

The first step in a Lafayette dog bite case is for the victim’s personal injury attorney to identify and confirm the ownership of the dog. In many cases, the victim knows the owner, and this step is simple. However, ownership of the animal is not always clear. In some cases, attorneys must investigate to determine who was responsible for the dog and legally liable for its actions.

Next, the dog bite lawyer would confirm whether insurance coverage is available. Typically, homeowner’s insurance would be responsible for paying a dog bite claim, but there may be other potential sources of compensation in some situations. Identifying the correct insurance company is critical to the success of a dog bite case.

A personal injury attorney in Lafayette would also make sure the victim receives adequate medical treatment and documentation of all injuries. Another important consideration is whether there is long-term damage. If so, work on the case would continue until the victim was released from treatment. Once the victim’s long-term state is assessed, a lawyer could begin working towards a settlement.

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Settling Versus Going to Trial

Dog bite claims are often settled out of court when the defendant’s insurance company makes a fair offer. An insurance company’s initial settlement offer may be too low, in which case the victim’s attorneys must make counteroffers in order to arrive at a fair value. If a reasonable settlement is available, it is often in a victim’s best interest to accept it. Settling a case is often quicker and less expensive than going to trial, and it eliminates uncertainty.

In some cases, however, a dog bite case must proceed to court. This can occur when the insurance company does not offer a reasonable settlement, there are issues determining liability, or there is a dispute over damages. A dog bite attorney can provide advice, but the decision is ultimately up to the victim.

What Happens When There are Multiple Defendants?

When there are several defendants in a dog-bite case, it often involves multiple people, multiple dogs, or a combination. Situations like this are more complicated, and they raise a lot of potential legal issues. For example, insurance companies may decide to wrap everything up into a single claim or handle the case as several separate claims. There may also be several different insurance companies involved. Depending on how the insurance policies are written, cases with multiple defendants could require litigation. Call the Lafayette personal injury lawyers at the Law Offices of Laborde Earles for a free consultation.

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Jordan is a wonderful paralegal very sweet and helpful good job very professional hold on to her she is a asset to your firm hard worker. Thank you fo...

Jordan is a wonderful paralegal very sweet and helpful good job very professional hold on to her she is a asset to your firm hard worker. Thank you for all your hard work to all the people working on our case.

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I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions ...

I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions and concerns, and her professionalism was top notch. Her phone etiquette, and calm and caring attitude was outstanding.

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The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs...

The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs. Courtney. I spoke with her multiple times, and each time she was patient and answered every question I had. She made me feel like I was the only client. Grateful for her and Laborde Earls!

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Tracie Martin

Alexandria

I highly recommend hiring Laborde Earles for your personal injury needs. They have the most professional, friendly and communicative staff who are gua...

I highly recommend hiring Laborde Earles for your personal injury needs. They have the most professional, friendly and communicative staff who are guaranteed to work hard on your case and get the outcome you deserve. Brittani C. is one of the most organized, thorough and helpful paralegals I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. She keeps you informed and answers all your questions throughout the litigation process.

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Patrick Conner

Baton Rouge

I highly recommend Derek Hebert to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy attorney. From the very beginning, Derek was professional, honest, and ...

I highly recommend Derek Hebert to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy attorney. From the very beginning, Derek was professional, honest, and incredibly responsive. He took the time to explain every step of the process in clear terms and always made sure I felt informed and supported.

His attention to detail, strong communication, and genuine dedication made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. Derek went above and beyond to achieve the best possible outcome, and I’m truly grateful for his hard work.

If you’re looking for an attorney who is knowledgeable, reliable, and truly cares about his clients, Derek Hebert is an outstanding choice.

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Brylan Cormier

Lafayette

I had an amazing experience working with my paralegal, Wesley Guillory, at Laborde Earles Law Firm. Wesley went above and beyond for me throughout the...

I had an amazing experience working with my paralegal, Wesley Guillory, at Laborde Earles Law Firm. Wesley went above and beyond for me throughout the entire process. He was always patient, knowledgeable, and quick to respond to any questions I had. What stood out most was how genuinely he cared. He made sure I understood every step and always made me feel supported and informed.

Wesley’s professionalism and compassion truly set him apart. He made a stressful situation so much easier, and I’m incredibly grateful for all of his hard work. I highly recommend Wesley and the entire Laborde Earles team. They really do put their clients first.

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Jaine Fisher

Lafayette

Toni at LE is seriously so dedicated and a hard worker! LE is lucky to have this chick. She's so sweet but a little spicy (in a good, funny way!) whic...

Toni at LE is seriously so dedicated and a hard worker! LE is lucky to have this chick. She's so sweet but a little spicy (in a good, funny way!) which is always a breath of fresh air to be around someone who is genuine. She's a doll and anyone who comes into contact with her is a lucky one!

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Hannah Johnson

Baton Rouge

Elizabeth Lachney I absolutely hands down the best. She is very professional, knowledgeable and most importantly she is very respectful. She is one re...

Elizabeth Lachney I absolutely hands down the best. She is very professional, knowledgeable and most importantly she is very respectful. She is one reason why we use Laborde Earles Law Firm. They make you feel like family!

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Tiffany Bardwell

New Iberia

Love Laborde Earle's. They're dependable lawyers that let you know you can trust them. I would specifically recommend Derek Hebert. He's a great attor...

Love Laborde Earle's. They're dependable lawyers that let you know you can trust them. I would specifically recommend Derek Hebert. He's a great attorney who is extremely knowledgeable and you'll never doubt that he'll get the job done!

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Kaitlin H.

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Reach Out to a Lafayette Dog Bite Attorney Today

If you were attacked by a dog, you may a legal right to pursue compensation from the at-fault party. However, personal injury claims can be complex, and victims are often more successful when they work with experienced attorneys. A skilled Lafayette lawyer could help you understand what to expect throughout your dog bite case and fight for fair compensation. To see if you have a case, call today and schedule a consultation.

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