Dog Bite Lawyer in Montana

Your Trusted Legal Support

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 4.5 million people suffer a dog bite injury every year in the U.S. Almost one in five of those (a total of 885,000) require medical attention for their dog bite-related injuries. 

This can result in excessive:

• Medical expenses
• Damages
• Crippling financial burdens

When this occurs, you need a dog bite attorney from Bliven Law Firm, P.C. to help you through this difficult time. Our attorneys know the devastation a dog bite injury causes, which is why we work tirelessly for our clients to help them obtain the compensation they need to put their lives back together.

Dog bites can have a range of unexpected consequences that extend beyond just physical injuries. Victims may face lengthy medical treatments and therapy, causing considerable disruption to their personal and professional lives. The emotional impact of such incidents may include anxiety, depression, and a significant decrease in quality of life. Understanding these broader impacts is crucial in ensuring that victims receive comprehensive support and advocacy. 

To schedule a consultation with a dog bite attorney at our firm, call us at (406) 625-0100 or submit an online form.

Common Dog Bite Injuries and Complications

A dog bite injury can result in serious medical issues and complications. In immunocompromised patients, the elderly, and small children, this can take a devastating turn. Life-threatening infections may arise that can cause soft-tissue infections and sepsis.

Some of the most common injuries and complications include:

• Skin lacerations
• Torn muscles
• Broken bones
• Nerve damage
• Rabies
• Infections
• Scarring
• Disfigurements
• Amputation
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Beyond these physical issues, dog bite incidents often lead to lasting psychological effects, such as a heightened fear of animals and difficulty in social settings due to physical or emotional trauma. Early intervention with psychological counseling is beneficial in helping victims cope with these challenges and regain their confidence in various aspects of life.

Children are at the highest risk of suffering a fatal dog bite injury. Children between the ages of five and nine are at the highest risk for a fatal dog bite injury. In addition, children are at high risk of suffering facial disfigurement after a dog attack. Education on proper interaction with animals, responsible pet ownership, and community awareness can significantly mitigate these risks.

Montana’s Dog Bite Injury Laws and Liability

Montana and Oregon have specific laws that address dog bites and how victims can obtain compensation for their injuries. Under Montana and Oregon law, a dog owner maintains liability for damages their dog caused regardless of whether or not they knew of the dog’s viciousness. Even if this is the first time a dog bites another person, the dog owner is still responsible. The law refers to this as strict liability. There is no free bite rule as in other states. As such, injured dog bite victims can recover money for their injuries without the burden of proving that the dog had a propensity for viciousness.

The strict liability approach in Montana reinforces the need for responsible pet ownership, encouraging dog owners to take preventive measures against potential bites. This includes training, secure enclosures, and proper handling of dogs in public spaces. Such measures not only enhance community safety but also reduce the occurrence of unfortunate incidents.

It is important to know that this law does not cover trespassers or individuals who provoke an attack. If you are on another person’s property uninvited, then you may not recover compensation for your injuries. Likewise, if you provoked the animal in any way, you cannot file a claim for damages.

Understanding one's legal position is crucial in such cases, thus emphasizing the importance of consulting with knowledgeable legal professionals. Understanding nuances such as property rights and provocation can greatly influence the success of a claim, hence these should not be overlooked by potential claimants.

In Montana, dog bite injury victims only have three years from the date of their injury to file a claim. While this may seem like a long time, it can pass quickly. The sooner you contact a dog bite lawyer at Bliven Law Firm, P.C., the faster we can begin building your case. Collecting valuable evidence, including witness testimony, is more difficult the more time has passed.

If you suffered a dog bite injury anywhere in the state of Montana, we can help. Call us at (406) 625-0100 or fill out our confidential contact form.

Seek Immediate Legal Assistance After a Dog Bite

After a dog bite injury, you may not know where to turn for help. At Bliven Law Firm, P.C., our trusted dog bite lawyers know that you need aggressive and compassionate legal guidance during this time. We work with you to build your case and obtain the compensation you need to move forward in life after a dog bite.

We provide personalized strategies designed to address the specific circumstances of your incident. Our comprehensive understanding of insurance practices allows us to anticipate challenges and build robust arguments against common defenses used to deny or reduce claims. This ensures that your needs are thoroughly represented and supported, maximizing the potential for a favorable outcome.

We can negotiate with insurance companies and help you obtain the money you need to pay for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Long-term damages
• Pain and suffering

Insurance companies will often look to deny or reduce your claim in any way possible. They may claim that you provoked the dog. When this happens, we work tirelessly to show that you did not do anything to provoke the dog bite attack. Our dog bite lawyers have the knowledge and experience needed to build a solid case for dog bite accident victims.

Understanding Compensation for Dog Bite Victims in Montana

Navigating the legal system after a dog bite can be intimidating, but understanding the potential compensation available can offer some guidance. In Montana, compensation typically includes covering medical expenses, both immediate and future, related to the injury. This encompasses hospital bills, medications, surgeries, and rehabilitation therapy. Beyond direct medical costs, victims might also receive compensation for lost wages due to an inability to work during recovery. This aspect considers both temporary loss of income and long-term earning capacity if the victim is left with permanent disabilities. Additionally, damages for pain and suffering, which recognize the emotional and psychological toll, are common in these cases, acknowledging the victim's decreased quality of life and ongoing emotional distress.

Moreover, victims may also recover compensation for property damage and, in certain cases, punitive damages aimed at punishing particularly reckless conduct by the dog owner. By working with Bliven Law Firm, P.C., you can ensure all possible avenues for compensation are explored. Our team diligently reviews all potential losses and damages to present a comprehensive claim for each client. It is our priority to make sure that our clients feel supported throughout their recovery and legal processes.

Get Help from Experienced Montana Dog Bite Lawyers

Bliven Law Firm, P.C. can handle all types of dog bite injury cases in Kalispell, Columbia Falls, Whitefish, and Big Fork. We also serve clients in Flathead County, Glacier National Park, West Glacier, and throughout the state of Montana.

We offer free initial consultations with our attorneys either in our office or virtually during this time. Call us today and discover why so many Montana and Oregon accident survivors count on Bliven Law Firm, P.C.

Our team prioritizes client education and empowerment, ensuring that everyone we represent fully understands their legal rights and options. By maintaining open communication and providing regular updates, we ensure a supportive environment that encourages informed decisions. This client-focused approach allows us to tailor our services to meet the unique needs of each case, while also fostering strong, trusting relationships with our clients.

As part of our commitment to the community, we actively inform our clients about local resources available for dog bite victims, including medical assistance centers and psychological counseling services in Montana. This holistic support enhances our ability to address not just legal needs but also the medical and emotional recovery aspects crucial to our clients' well-being.

For experienced guidance, turn to a skilled Montana dog bite attorney at Bliven Law Firm, P.C.. Contact us or call (406) 625-0100 to secure a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bites in Montana

How quickly should I act after a dog bite incident?

Immediate action is crucial following a dog bite incident. As the statute of limitations in Montana is three years, it's essential to start the process as soon as possible to preserve evidence, including photographs of injuries, medical records, and witness statements. Promptly seeking medical attention is equally important to address any potential infections or complications. During this initial stage, it's beneficial to contact a qualified dog bite lawyer in Montana from Bliven Law Firm, P.C. to discuss your situation and explore legal options. An early consultation can help clarify the next steps, ensuring you meet all necessary legal deadlines and have adequate representation from the start.

What should I do to protect my legal rights after being bitten by a dog?

First and foremost, documenting the incident as thoroughly as possible while following up with local authorities and animal control is imperative. Gathering details about the dog and its owner, any witnesses along with their contact information, and any initial statements are vital steps. Protecting your rights also involves refraining from signing any documents or making statements to insurance companies before consulting with legal counsel. This is crucial since insurers often aim to minimize payouts. Talking to an experienced dog bite attorney ensures you clearly understand your rights and avoid potential pitfalls in your claims process.

Are dog owners always liable for dog bite injuries in Montana?

Under Montana's strict liability dog bite laws, dog owners are typically held responsible for the injuries their dogs cause, regardless of the dog's past behavior. However, there are exceptions, such as if the victim was trespassing or provoked the dog into attacking. It’s essential to determine the specifics of your situation to understand how this law applies. Consulting with an experienced attorney familiar with local dog bite statutes can help clarify your standing, ensuring you are aware of the obligations and defenses available to both parties in these cases.

How does Montana's law compare with dog bite laws in other states?

Montana's strict liability law contrasts with the more lenient "one-bite rule" observed in some states where a dog owner is only liable if they are aware of their dog's aggressive tendencies. Montana's approach removes the burden of proving a dog's prior viciousness, streamlining the compensation process for victims. Understanding these differences is beneficial for both state residents and visitors in effectively navigating incidents while respecting local legislation. This strict liability framework reflects Montana's commitment to public safety and holding dog owners accountable for injuries their pets cause without prior known aggression.

What is the role of animal control in a dog bite incident?

Animal control plays an integral role in dog bite incidents, including investigating the event, assessing the animal's behavior, and ensuring compliance with local ordinances. Their involvement aids in preventing further attacks by holding pet owners accountable and enforcing animal control laws. Reporting a bite to local animal control also facilitates a legal claim by documenting the incident officially, which is essential for supporting any legal action or claim for compensation. Understanding their role can help victims navigate their responsibilities after an attack, ensuring swift and efficient resolution of any related legal matters.

Connect with an experienced dog bite lawyer near you in Montana as soon as possible. Dial (406) 625-0100 or submit an online form.