If a dog has bitten you and you sustained injuries due to the bite, you may have a compensable personal injury case. If you plan on bringing a case against the responsible party, you may be torn between handling the case yourself or hiring a San Antonio dog bite attorney to represent you. There are many benefits associated with hiring a lawyer to help you with this type of case, and learning about those benefits may help you determine if hiring a legal professional is right for you. Here are some ways a dog bite lawyer can help you with a dog bite personal injury case.
An Attorney Can Advise You If You Have a Compensable Case
One of the first ways that a dog bite lawyer can help you if a dog has bitten you is by helping you determine if you have a compensable case. Certain criteria need to be met to have a successful case that you can win. For example, if you were illegally on someone’s property and a dog bit you, you are not likely to win your case. A lawyer can listen to your version of events and, based on that, help you determine if you have a case that meets the legal criteria for a compensable case.
A Lawyer Can File Your Case Before the Statute of Limitations Expires
Another way a dog bite attorney can help you is by helping you to file a case before the statute of limitation expires. In the state of Texas, the statute of limitations for a dog bite case is two years. Your claim must be filed and served on the other party within that two-year timeframe. If you fail to properly file a case with the courts before the statute expires, you lose the right to ever bring a suit against the party for that particular incident.
An Attorney Can Help You Get the Medical Care You Need
If you do not have medical insurance and/or do not have money to pay for medical care, you may be wondering what you should do. A dog bite attorney can put you in touch with medical professionals who work on a lien basis. This means that the doctor will take their fees directly out of your settlement or award, instead of you having to pay for the doctor upfront. This helps you to get the medical care you need, regardless of your insurance or financial situation.
A Lawyer Can Maximize Your Settlement or Award
The final way that a dog bite lawyer can help you with a dog bite personal injury case is by helping to maximize your settlement or award. Studies have shown that individuals who are represented by an attorney recover more money compared to claimants who represent themselves. An attorney knows how to properly value your case and fight to get you the money you deserve.
There are many different ways that a San Antonio dog bite attorney can help you if you have been bitten by a dog and sustained an injury. A lawyer can help you determine if you have a compensable case, can help you to file before the statute of limitations expires, can help you get the medical care you need, and can work hard to maximize your settlement. Reach out to your preferred personal injury lawyer to schedule a free consultation.