Dog Bite Injury Lawyer in Nevada
Dog Bites Can Cause Serious, Lasting Harm — Let Us Help You Recover
According to the Insurance Information Institute, approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year. Dog bites can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial hardship, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, don’t wait for the dog’s owner or their insurance company to take action. Speak with an experienced Nevada dog bite injury lawyer who can help you seek the full compensation you deserve.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Nevada
If you’ve been attacked or bitten, remain as calm as possible and take these steps to protect your rights and strengthen your claim:
- Call the police and ensure a report is filed.
- Ask the dog’s owner if the dog is current on vaccinations.
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Collect contact information for the dog owner and any witnesses. Take photos of:
- Your injuries
- The dog
- The scene of the attack
- Any torn or bloodied clothing or damaged property
- Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor , some issues may surface later.
- Contact a dog bite attorney for a case evaluation and next steps.
- Keep a daily journal to record your pain, emotional distress, medical treatments, and how the injury impacts your daily life.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites can cause serious, sometimes life-altering injuries, including:
- Deep lacerations and puncture wounds
- Nerve damage or broken bones
- Infections
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- PTSD or other emotional trauma
- Head or facial injuries
Nevada Dog Bite Laws: When Is a Dog Owner Liable?
Nevada does not follow strict liability for dog bites. Instead, liability often depends on whether:
- The dog is legally classified as “dangerous” or “vicious” under NRS 202.500, or
- The owner acted negligently.
What Makes a Dog “Dangerous” or “Vicious”?
- Dangerous Dog: Behaved menacingly without provocation, on two separate occasions within 18 months while off the owner’s property or not securely confined.
- Vicious Dog: Has caused substantial bodily harm or death without provocation, or continued menacing behavior after being declared dangerous.
A dog’s breed or a protective act during a crime is not enough to label it as dangerous or vicious.
Proving Negligence
If the dog doesn’t meet the legal definitions above, a bite victim can still prove liability by showing the owner failed to exercise reasonable care, such as:
- Allowing the dog to roam unsupervised
- Violating leash or enclosure laws
- Ignoring prior complaints or incidents
If the owner broke a local dog ordinance, this may also establish negligence.
Does Insurance Cover Dog Bite Injuries?
In many cases, yes , homeowner’s or renter’s insurance may cover damages if the dog’s owner is liable. However, some policies exclude coverage for dogs previously declared dangerous or vicious.
Importantly, Nevada law (NRS 687B.383) prohibits insurers from denying coverage based solely on the breed of the dog.
An experienced Las Vegas dog bite lawyer can help determine liability and investigate available insurance coverage.
Importantly, Nevada law (NRS 687B.383) prohibits insurers from denying coverage based solely on the breed of the dog.
An experienced Las Vegas dog bite lawyer can help determine liability and investigate available insurance coverage.
What If Your Dog Bites Someone?
If your dog bites someone, even on your own property, you may be liable for damages. The incident should be reported to Animal Control, and your insurance may be affected. Consult with a lawyer to understand your potential legal exposure.
Dog Bite Settlements in Nevada
What’s the Average Settlement?
Settlement amounts vary widely based on:
- Severity of injuries
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
How Long Does a Dog Bite Settlement Take?
The timeline depends on:
- The extent and duration of medical treatment
- How cooperative the insurance company is
- Whether liability is disputed
Your attorney can give you a more accurate estimate after reviewing your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite in Las Vegas?
Liability depends on factors like negligence, leash laws, and prior aggressive behavior of the dog. A Las Vegas dog bite injury lawyer can help determine responsibility.
Will Insurance Cover My Dog Bite Injury?
Homeowner’s insurance may cover dog bite injuries, but claims can be denied or underpaid. A dog bite injury lawyer can negotiate with insurers for fair compensation.
Why Should I Hire a Dog Bite Injury Lawyer?
A dog bite injury lawyer can help you navigate legal complexities, determine liability, and secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.
How Can a Dog Bite Injury Lawyer in Las Vegas Help Me?
In Las Vegas, dog bite cases follow specific laws. A dog bite injury lawyer in Las Vegas understands local regulations and can build a strong case to maximize your settlement.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
You have only one chance to secure the resources you need for recovery. Call (702) 732-3529 or fill out our secure online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. If you can’t travel, we’ll come to your home or hospital. With Lavigne Law Firm on your side, the road to recovery starts now.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
You have only one chance to secure the resources you need for recovery. Call (702) 732-3529 or fill out our secure online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. If you can’t travel, we’ll come to your home or hospital. With Lavigne Law Firm on your side, the road to recovery starts now.