In addition to physical injuries, a dog bite can result in emotional trauma, overwhelming medical bills, and time missed from work. If you or someone you love has suffered injuries due to a dog attack, understanding your legal options is crucial. Our experienced Olathe dog bite lawyers are here to help you pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
With over 45 years of combined experience representing injury victims across Kansas and Missouri, Foster Wallace Personal Injury Lawyers is committed to fighting for justice on your behalf. We understand how traumatic these incidents can be, and we’re ready to stand by your side.
Schedule your free consultation with one of our Olathe personal injury lawyers today.
How Our Dog Bite Attorneys in Olathe Can Help
After suffering injuries caused by a dog bite, having a skilled legal representative in your corner can make a world of difference. At Foster Wallace, our Olathe dog bite lawyers provide comprehensive legal services tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.
Our first action is to conduct a detailed investigation of the incident. The steps of this investigation include:
- Visiting the scene of the attack
- Reviewing animal control and police reports
- Interviewing eyewitnesses
- Examining medical documentation to understand the extent of your injuries
- Investigating the dog’s behavioral history, including prior bites or violations of leash laws
Once we’ve gathered the necessary evidence, we work to identify all liable parties. Some of the parties most commonly at fault in these cases include:
- The dog’s owner
- A landlord who failed to enforce pet restrictions
- Another party that was responsible for caring for the dog at the time of the attack
After we have determined who is to blame for the bite, we will build a strong claim on your behalf and take over all communications with insurance companies and defense attorneys.
If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we won’t hesitate to bring your case to court to ensure your rights are protected and that you recover the compensation you are entitled to receive.
Kansas Dog Bite Laws and Deadlines You Should Know
Kansas law does not follow a strict “one bite” rule. Instead, liability can often be established based on negligence or a violation of local leash laws. That means if the dog owner failed to control their animal properly, they could be held legally responsible, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression.
However, it’s important to act quickly. In Kansas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites, is typically two years from the date of the incident. Failing to file your claim within that time frame may bar you from recovering compensation entirely.
By reaching out to an Olathe dog bite attorney as soon as possible, you’ll give your legal team time to gather evidence, interview witnesses while memories are still fresh, and ensure all documents are filed correctly and on time.
Contact our Kansas city personal injury lawyers now.
Why You Shouldn’t Talk to the Insurance Company Alone
After a dog bite, you may receive a call from an insurance adjuster representing the dog owner or even receive a visit in the hospital. While the insurance representative may seem friendly or sympathetic, it’s important to understand that their primary goal is to minimize the amount the insurance company pays out.
Speaking to an adjuster without legal counsel can put your case at risk. You might unknowingly make statements that are later used against you, or be pressured into accepting a lowball settlement that doesn’t begin to cover your medical expenses and other losses. That’s why it is best to decline to speak with insurers until you hire an experienced dog bite attorney in Olathe.
At Foster Wallace, we take on the burden of dealing with the insurance company. Once we represent you, we’ll handle all communication and negotiations to help ensure your claim is taken seriously. You won’t have to worry about being misled or pressured, as our attorneys will protect your rights every step of the way.
Settling Vs. Going to Court
One of the most important things to decide when filing a dog bite injury lawsuit is whether to take your case to court or agree to a settlement offer. While you should never take the first settlement offer you receive, you need to understand that the vast majority of these cases are resolved through settlement negotiations.
A settlement is typically in the best interest of both parties, as nobody wants to go through the long process of a trial. By negotiating a fair settlement deal, you will be able to recover the money you need quickly so you can get your life back on track.
While it is likely that your case will be resolved through a settlement, our experienced legal team is always prepared to take a case to trial if necessary. This is important as there is always the possibility that the other party will be unwilling to agree to a fair settlement deal. Additionally, a willingness to go to court will give you leverage during settlement negotiations.
Get Help From a Dog Bite Lawyer Serving Olathe Today
If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog in Olathe, don’t wait to seek legal advice. The sooner you get in touch with our team at Foster Wallace, the stronger your case will be. We have a proven track record of success, having recovered over $1 billion in compensation for our clients.
Let us help you take the next step toward recovery. Contact Foster Wallace today to schedule a free, no–obligation case evaluation. You can reach us by phone or by filling out our online contact form. A member of our legal team will promptly get in touch to discuss your case and explain your rights. You don’t have to go through this alone. We’re here to fight for you.