The laws regarding animal attacks are a bit vague in certain parts of the world, but they are quite clear in Canada. You have a right to compensation if an animal attacks you and causes you injuries of any kind. The owner of such an animal is responsible for ensuring that you receive funds for all of your expenses until you can recover fully. The country sees more than 500,000 dog bites each year, and it made these laws to protect its citizens. The following are some tips that you can use if you happen to get bitten by a dog in Canada:
Approach the Owner Immediately
The first thing you should do is make the owner aware of what occurred if he or she does not know. Such would be the case if the animal is off of its leash. Let the person know that the animal attacked you and has caused you to suffer with an injury.
Take Pictures and Gather Documentation
Take pictures of your injury with a mobile phone or some other type of device. Get statements from any witnesses that saw what happened. Prepare yourself just in case you have to take your case in front of someone like a judge.
Try to Resolve the Situation With the Pet Owner
You should always try to resolve issues outside of the courtroom if you can. Let the pet owner know that you feel that he or she is responsible for the injuries that you have suffered. Offer to develop a plan of restitution and care. If the pet owner does not want to resolve the issue or admit fault, then you may have to take the situation to the next level.
Contact Personal Injury Lawyers
Personal injury lawyers Toronto are available in all parts of Canada to help you with a dog bite case. You will want to visit a personal injury lawyer if you cannot get the pet owner to help you with your medical bills. The lawyer will first bring you in for a consultation. The consultation is a good time to bring in your injury photos and medical bills. The lawyer will want to see that. He or she will let you know if your case is worth pursuing on a large scale. If yes, then you can hire him or her to start working on it right away. The first thing the lawyer may do is try t negotiate for an out-of-court settlement again right away. If that does not work, then you will have to go through a lengthy full case. The extra time may be worth it because you may end up winning much more than you ever imagined you would.
