Chesapeake Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog bites are not only painful but often result in lasting emotional trauma. Victims may suffer from permanent scarring and long-term phobias. While there are options available for financial recovery, obtaining a fair settlement or court award can be challenging. That’s where I come in as an experienced Chesapeake dog bite lawyer.

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, you need someone like me who has experience in Virginia dog bite cases. I’m Ed Atkinson, and as your Chesapeake personal injury lawyer, I can help you hold the owner responsible for all you’ve endured. I work on contingency, so you won’t pay anything upfront or out of pocket.

Call Atkinson Law today for a risk-free consultation.

Why Choose Me for Your Chesapeake Dog Bite Case?

Not only have I successfully handled dog bite cases in and around Chesapeake, VA, but as a Belgian Malinois owner, breeder, and trainer, I deeply understand canine behavior. I apply my extensive knowledge of dogs and dog breeds to uncover issues that prove owner negligence.

I also realize that even smaller breeds can cause devastating injuries, especially to young children. With my knowledge of dog psychology and track record of successful case results, I am a powerful ally for dog bite victims.

If you or a family member has been injured, please seek immediate medical attention and then reach out to me. I will personally handle your case and will gladly travel to meet you for our initial consultation, whether you are at home or in the hospital. We can also discuss your case in my office, over the phone, or online. 

Virginia Law Regarding Dog Bite Cases

Virginia follows standard negligence principles as opposed to a strict liability standard with dog bites. This means a dog owner may be liable for your damages if they knew or should have known that their pet was dangerous. And, of course, a prior biting incident is considered an indicator of a vicious dog.

That said, the one-bite rule can be deceiving. While a prior attack can strengthen a personal injury claim, this is not the only way to establish liability. In fact, I have settled many dog bite cases with no known prior incidents involving the animal. This was the situation when I achieved a $300,000 settlement for a Chesapeake resident who lost an eye in a pit bull attack.

Potential Damages in a Dog Bite Case

While every case is unique, the following damages may be available to you after a dog bite injury:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Diminished quality of life

Additionally, the long-term effects of a dog bite injury can be hard to predict, and many victims require plastic surgery to improve their self-image.

Financial Recovery Options in a Dog Bite Case

It’s important to understand that you have rights and potential compensation available if you’ve been injured by someone’s dog. Whether you choose to initiate an insurance claim or proceed with a lawsuit to seek damages, I am here to guide you through the legal complexities associated with your case.

Time Limit for Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Under Code of Virginia § 8.01-243, dog bite victims generally have two years to file a personal injury claim through the state’s court system. While the two-year filing window applies to most personal injury cases, special circumstances like the victim being a minor could alter the time limit.

While two years may seem like a long time, it sometimes takes a while to build a strong legal case for compensation. Also, the sooner you reach out to me, the sooner I can get to work.

During your initial consultation with me, I will let you know exactly how much time you have left to pursue damages.

Atkinson Law: Your Dog Bite Law Firm in Chesapeake, VA

If you or a loved one were bitten by a dog in the Chesapeake area, you need an experienced personal injury attorney on your side. As your Chesapeake dog bite lawyer, I can fight for the settlement or court award you deserve.

I’m here to manage the legalities and ensure you receive full compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages. As I mentioned, I only get paid when I win, and I will gladly travel to meet you so we can discuss your case.

Contact Atkinson Law to schedule a zero-risk consultation.