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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Client Testimonials Hear from locals like you.

Michelle Brouillette is a wonderful addition to the Laborde Earles team.

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Melanie B.

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

At the very first meeting with Alexis and Danielle they took the time to explain everything to us so that we understood what we were going to go throu...

At the very first meeting with Alexis and Danielle they took the time to explain everything to us so that we understood what we were going to go through. They checked in on us to see how things were going with DR appointment and therapy. They checked in on the phone or by text and if I had a question and I was in Lafayette and I would stop by the office one of them would come to answer my questions. I truly appreciate the response and respect that they showed to me and my husband and I would really recommend them to family and friends.

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Hazel G.

I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica wa...

I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to every detail. She took the time to explain each step of the process, answered all of my questions thoroughly, and made sure I always felt supported and informed.
Her dedication and attention to detail were clear throughout, and it was evident she genuinely cared about achieving the best possible outcome. Thanks to Erica’s hard work and expertise, my case went smoothly and successfully.
I highly recommend Erica Ducote to anyone in need of a skilled, reliable, and compassionate paralegal. She truly goes above and beyond!

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maddie jo

Marksville

They have good to keep me updated on the case but so far the settlement has not been reached.

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Lisa S.

Courtney Marsh is professional and passionate about her clients! Her communication skills are top notch and she has been amazing to work with! She is ...

Courtney Marsh is professional and passionate about her clients! Her communication skills are top notch and she has been amazing to work with! She is truly a blessing!

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Tori E.

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 M.

Trudy Dupuy is a wonderful asset to the team. She does an amazing job.

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Annabelle D.

Renee McCaslin is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and always goes above and beyond to make the legal process smooth and stress-free. I truly a...

Renee McCaslin is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and always goes above and beyond to make the legal process smooth and stress-free. I truly appreciate her attention to detail and genuine care for her clients!

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Courtnie Heltz

New Orleans

Over 1,700 5-Star Reviews

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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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