Fresno is a beautiful city located in central California with a rich history and diverse culture. It is also home to many dog owners who love their furry friends and take them everywhere they go. However, with the number of dogs comes the risk of dog bites. Every year, numerous people are bitten by dogs in Fresno, resulting in injuries that can have long-lasting physical and emotional effects.
If a dog has bitten you, you must seek help from a dog bite attorney in Fresno. A competent attorney will gather the necessary evidence to help you win your claim and get the compensation you deserve. In this article, we’ll discuss the types of evidence that can make a strong dog bite claim in Fresno.
Types of Evidence
In a dog bite claim, the following types of evidence are typically needed to support your case:
Medical Records
Your medical records are the first and most crucial evidence in any dog bite case. These records will document and prove the extent of your injuries, including any physical scarring or disfigurement caused by the attack. It is vital to seek immediate medical attention after a dog bite as it ensures proper treatment and creates a record of your injuries that can be used as evidence later on.
To strengthen your case:
- Follow your doctor’s recommended treatment plan and attend all follow-up appointments.
- Take photos of your injuries throughout the healing process to show the progression.
- Keep track of any additional medical expenses incurred due to the dog bite, such as medication costs or physical therapy sessions.
Photographs and Videos
Visual evidence in photographs and videos can benefit a dog bite claim. Make sure to take photos of the following:
- Your injuries, including any bruises, cuts, or puncture wounds.
- The location of the incident.
- Any visible signs that the dog was not properly leashed or controlled by its owner.
Also, try to obtain footage from security cameras or any bystanders who may have captured the attack on video.
Witness Statements
Witness statements can be powerful in a dog bite claim. If people were present during the attack, their testimonies can help corroborate your version of events. It is best to get witness statements as soon as possible after the incident while memories are still fresh and accurate. Your attorney can assist you in obtaining these statements from witnesses who may be hesitant to come forward on their own.
Police Reports
When a dog bites someone, it is considered a crime in Fresno. As such, it’s crucial to file a police report immediately after the incident. The report will contain important details about the attack and provide an unbiased account of what happened. It can also help identify the owner of the dog and any prior incidents involving the same animal.
Animal Control Reports
Like police reports, animal control reports are another official document that can be used as evidence in a dog bite claim. These reports will contain information about the dog’s history, including previous attacks or aggressive behavior, and whether it has been properly vaccinated and licensed.
If multiple incidents have involved the same dog, this report can strengthen your case by proving that the owner knew or should have known about their pet’s dangerous tendencies.
The Importance of Evidence in a Dog Bite Claim
Dog bite claims can be challenging to prove without substantial evidence. This is why gathering as much evidence as possible to support your claim is crucial. With the right evidence, you can:
- Establish liability: The evidence you present can help prove that the dog owner was negligent in controlling their pet, making them responsible for your injuries.
- Demonstrate the extent of your injuries: Medical records, photos, and videos can all help paint a clear picture of the physical and emotional toll the attack has taken on you.
- Receive fair compensation: With strong evidence, you stand a better chance of securing adequate compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Conclusion
California is a strict liability state regarding dog bites, meaning that dog owners are liable for any injuries their pets cause. However, holding them accountable and receiving the compensation they deserve can be more manageable with the right evidence. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Fresno, don’t hesitate to seek help from a qualified attorney who can gather and present the necessary evidence to support your claim.
