Dover Dog Bite Lawyers

NO FEE UNLESS WE WIN

$ millions

recovered For our clients

You Deserve Compensation For Someone Else's Negligence

At Schmittinger & Rodriguez, dog bite accidents are taken seriously. As Delaware dog bite lawyers, it is our priority to serve those who have been harmed by the actions of another’s dog or dangerous animal. We understand that dog bites can cause physical and emotional injury, resulting in pain and suffering for victims for which you should recover compensation.

If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog bite situation, Schmittinger & Rodriguez is here to help. Our experienced attorneys will work hard to maximize your compensation so that you can move forward with your life. We can help answer any questions you may have regarding dog bite laws in Delaware and assist you through each step of the process.

Common Dog Bite Accidents in Delaware Include:

- Dog Bites & Attacks
- Unrestrained Dogs (Off Leash)
- Dangerous Animals

Types Of Dog Bite
Cases We Handle

A Schmittinger & Rodriguez dog bite lawyer has experience handling all types of dog bite cases. We can help Delaware dog bite victims recover the compensation they deserve for their pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by dog bites.

Some of the most common dog and animal bite cases we handle include:

- Unprovoked dog bites: If a dog bites someone without provocation, the owner is typically liable for any injuries the person suffers. This includes situations where the dog was off-leash and running loose or where the owner failed to properly restrain the dog.
- Provoked dog bites: If a dog is provoked, the owner may not be liable for any injuries that result. However, it’s important to investigate the circumstances surrounding the bite to determine whether the owner knew or should have known that the dog had a tendency to bite.
- Dog bites to children: Children are often the victims of dog bites, and these cases can be particularly complex. In Delaware, there is a presumption that children under the age of seven are not capable of provoking a dog, so the owner may be liable even if the child did something that would normally be considered a provocation.
- Dog bites to postal workers or other delivery personnel: If a dog bites a postal worker or other delivery people while they are on the job, the owner may be liable for any injuries the person suffers. Additionally, the owner may face criminal charges if they knew or should have known that the dog had the propensity to bite.
- Dog attacks resulting in serious injuries or death: In some cases, dog attacks can result in serious injuries or even death. These cases may involve significant medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma, and may require extensive litigation to ensure that the victim receives fair compensation.

No matter the circumstances surrounding your case, our experienced animal bite lawyer will work hard to protect your rights and make sure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. YOUR CASE. OUR PRIORITY.

Understanding Your Rights After A Dog Bite Incident

If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a dog bite, it is important to understand your legal rights for serious injury. After a dog bite incident, it’s important to take certain steps to protect your rights. First, seek medical attention right away, even if the injury seems minor. Dog bites can lead to serious infections and other complications, so it’s important to get prompt medical care and make sure the injuries are not left untreated. You should also report the bite to local animal control or law enforcement and get the owner’s contact information, including their name, address, and phone number.

Once you’ve received medical attention and reported the bite, it’s important to speak with a Delaware lawyer who has experience handling dog bite cases. Your lawyer can help you understand your personal injury claim rights and work to protect your interests throughout the legal process. They can also help you gather evidence to support your claim, negotiate with the dog owner’s insurance company, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit to recover damages. You may have the right to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may also be entitled to punitive damages and/or compensatory damages.

In Delaware, the law holds dog owners strictly liable for any injuries their dogs cause, regardless of the owner’s negligence or knowledge of the dog’s propensity to bite. This means that if you or someone you love is bitten by a dog in Delaware, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries.

A dog bite lawyer at Schmittinger & Rodriguez will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your rights are respected and that you receive full compensation for any damages from the property owner responsible for your accident. We are committed to helping our clients get back on their feet as quickly as possible after an accident.

Get Started Today

Contact Schmittinger & Rodriguez

At Schmittinger & Rodriguez, we are committed to helping canine attack accident victims in Delaware get the justice they deserve. Our dog bite attorneys have experience handling all types of dog bite accidents and will help ensure that you receive the best possible outcome for your case. We understand how devastating dog bites can be and we want to make sure that our clients know their rights. YOUR CASE. OUR PRIORITY.

our reviews

What Our Clients Say

    
 
 
         Brian Jenkins 
 2023-10-05
 
 
  Mr Catts went above and beyond to handle my complicated case. The level of professionalism is second to none. The staff and Mr. Catts were kind, courteous, and listened to my concerns with compassion. I would recomend this firm to anyone needing legal help. They earned my trust in am amazing way.
  
 
        Linda Wilson 
 2023-10-04
 
 
  Mr Catts and his legal team went above and beyond for me. They never stopped pursuing all avenues to get the compensation that I deserved. The staff was courteous and showed compassion. I felt like they really cared about my injuries. I highly recommend their services to anyone
  
 
        Tatiana Sida-Amor 
 2023-09-17
 
 
  I was recommended to this law office by my doctor after my car accident in the summer of 2021. I ended up working with Mr. Catts. I appreciate how forthcoming and hardworking he was about my case. The office is extremely professional to ensure that I got the best settlement that I could get. The open communication eased my mind and allowed me to handle things I needed to for myself.  Definitely recommend them if you want lawyers that give you results.
  
 
        Kathyjo Mays 
 2023-09-07
 
 
  I recommend them highly and have referred them to many of my friends and family.  Very informative and def kept me up to date about my case.  Schmittinger & Rodriguez def worked very hard for me.
  
 
        Mary Zober 
 2023-09-06
 
 
  The staff is friendly and makes you feel comfortable. The firm worked on getting my settlement and kept me informed every step of the way.
  
 
        Sharonda goode 
 2023-08-15
 
 
  Great experience! Doug Catts, Ryan and Ms. Kaye are awesome to work with. Very professional, friendly & knowledgeable. They are expensive. But get the job done & in a timely manner. I use Mr. Catts for all my legal needs.
  
 
        Hot Box237 
 2023-08-15
 
 
  I will recommend this lawyer to any one, I feel like crying. He is kind, patient and a good listener.  He solved your problem and at the end advice you. Thank you very much.
  
 
        Cheryl Rowe 
 2023-08-15
 
 
  Doug is personable...assertive and he will get the job done!
  
 
        Patsy Ware 
 2023-08-14
 
 
  Schmittinger and Rodriquez attorney Doug Catts is the best,  I highly recommend him.
As an attorney he is forthright, honest, transparent and sincere. Doug Catts and his staff are amazing.
  
 
  
  
 
 
   Google rating score: 4.4 of 5, based on 70 reviews

get answers

Most Common Questions

what you should do

most common injuries

who is liable

statute of limitations

What You Should Do If You Have Suffered A Dog Bite Injury

If you have suffered a dog bite injury in Delaware, there are several steps you should take to protect your health and legal rights. First, seek medical attention immediately, even if the bite seems minor. Dog bites can lead to serious infections and other complications, so it’s important to get prompt medical care. In addition to treating the immediate injury, your doctor can document the extent of your injuries and provide you with a treatment plan.

Once you’ve received medical attention, it’s important to report the bite to local animal control or law enforcement. They can investigate the incident and determine whether the dog has a history of aggressive behavior. You should also get the owner’s contact information, including their name, address, and phone number.

After you’ve taken these initial steps, it’s important to speak with a Delaware lawyer who has experience handling dog bite cases. Your lawyer can help you understand your rights and work to protect your interests throughout the legal process. They can also help you gather evidence to support your claim, negotiate with the dog owner’s insurance company, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit to recover damages.

In addition to seeking medical attention and legal representation, there are several other steps you can take to protect your health and legal rights after a dog bite injury. These include:

- Taking photographs of your injuries and any damage to your personal property, such as torn clothing or broken eyeglasses.
- Keeping detailed records of all medical treatments, including hospital visits, medications, and physical therapy sessions.
- Avoid discussions with the dog owner’s insurance company or their legal representatives until you’ve consulted with your own lawyer.

Remember, if you have suffered a dog bite injury in Delaware, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. By taking prompt action and working with an experienced Delaware lawyer, you can protect your legal rights and recover the compensation you deserve.

What Are The Most Common Dog Bite Injuries?

Dog bites can lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to more serious damage. Some of the most common dog bite injuries include

- Puncture wounds: When a dog bites, their teeth can puncture the skin and underlying tissue, causing a small, circular wound. These wounds can be painful and may require stitches or other medical treatments to prevent infection.
- Lacerations: In addition to puncture wounds, dog bites can also cause more extensive cuts or tears in the skin and underlying tissue. These injuries may require stitches or surgery to repair and can result in significant scarring or disfigurement.
- Contusions or bruising: Dog bites can also cause bruising or contusions, which occur when the underlying tissue is damaged but the skin remains intact. These injuries can be painful and may take several weeks to heal.
- Infections: Because dogs’ mouths are full of bacteria, dog bites can also lead to infections. These can range from mild skin infections to more serious infections that require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics.
- Nerve damage: In some cases, dog bites can damage nerves in the affected area. This can result in numbness, weakness, or paralysis, depending on the severity of the injury.
- Emotional trauma: In addition to physical injuries, dog bites can also cause significant emotional trauma, especially in children. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological symptoms as a result of the attack.

Your dog bite lawyer at Schmittinger & Rodriguez will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your rights are respected and that you receive full compensation for any damages related to your dog bite injury. We have extensive experience handling dog bite cases in Delaware and we’re committed to helping our clients get back on their feet as quickly as possible after an accident.

Who Is Liable If I Am Injured By A Dog Bite?

In Delaware, dog owners are strictly liable for dog bite injuries. This means that they may be legally responsible for any damages caused by their dog, even if the dog has never bitten someone before and/or the owner was unaware of its dangerous tendencies.

This law applies regardless of whether the dog was on a leash or in an enclosed area when it bit the victim. However, it is important to note that there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if the dog bite victim provoked or attacked the dog first, then the dog’s owner may not be held responsible for the resulting injury.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Here are a few factors that can affect liability in a dog bite case:

- Trespassing: If you were trespassing on the dog owner’s property at the time of the attack, the owner may argue that you were partially or fully responsible for your injuries.
- Provocation: If you provoked the dog in some way before the attack, the owner may argue that you were partially or fully responsible for your injuries.
- Criminal activity: If you were engaged in criminal activity at the time of the attack, the owner may argue that you were partially or fully responsible for your injuries.
- Assumption of risk: If you were aware of the risks of interacting with the dog and voluntarily assumed those risks, the owner may argue that you were partially or fully responsible for your injuries.

It’s important to work closely with your clients to understand the circumstances surrounding the attack and determine the most appropriate legal strategy. By advocating for your client’s rights and working to hold negligent dog owners accountable, you can help your clients move forward and achieve the justice they deserve

If you have been injured by a dog bite in Delaware, your lawyer at Schmittinger & Rodriguez can help you understand your rights and determine who is liable for the dog attack. We have extensive experience handling dog bite cases in Delaware, and we’re committed to helping you get the compensation you deserve.

How Long Do I Have In Delaware To File A Claim For A Dog Bite Injury?

In Delaware, dog bite victims have two years from the date of the attack to file a dog bite claim. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. If you fail to file your dog bite claim within this timeframe, you will lose your legal right to recovery and may not be able to pursue compensation for your injuries.

Due to this strict timeline, it’s important that dog bite victims contact an experienced dog bite lawyer as soon as possible after their injury. Your attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure that all deadlines are met in order to maximize your chances of success with your dog bite case.

At Schmittinger & Rodriguez, we understand how difficult it can be to deal with the aftermath of a dog bite injury. We’re here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the full compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help with your dog bite case in Delaware. Our attorneys are dedicated to providing personalized legal services tailored to meet our clients’ individual needs. When you work with Schmittinger & Rodriguez, you can rest assured that YOUR CASE will be OUR PRIORITY.

what is my case worth

How Much Money Can I Collect For A Dog Bite Injury?

If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog in Delaware, you may be wondering how much money you can collect for the injury. The amount of compensation you may receive will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of the injury, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and the insurance coverage of the responsible party. Here are some important points to keep in mind:

- Delaware operates under a strict liability dog bite law, which means that dog owners are responsible for any injuries their dogs cause, regardless of whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous or not.
- The amount of compensation you can collect will depend on the severity of your injury. In general, more severe injuries will result in higher compensation. This includes injuries such as broken bones, scarring, nerve damage, and other serious injuries that require medical treatment.
- In addition to compensation for medical bills and treatment, you may also be able to collect damages for lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
- If the dog owner has insurance coverage, their insurance company may be responsible for paying compensation for your injuries. This may include coverage under a homeowner’s insurance policy, renter’s insurance policy, or other liability insurance policy.
- If the dog owner does not have insurance coverage, you may be able to file a lawsuit against them directly to collect compensation for your injuries. However, it is important to note that collecting compensation from an individual who does not have insurance can be more challenging.

Overall, the amount of money you can collect for a dog bite injury in Delaware will depend on a number of factors. If you have been bitten by a dog, it is important to seek medical attention right away and contact an experienced personal injury attorney to help you navigate the legal process and maximize your compensation.

At Schmittinger & Rodriguez, we are dedicated to helping dog bite victims get maximum compensation for their injuries. We understand how difficult it can be to deal with the aftermath of a dog attack, and we are committed to providing personalized legal services tailored to meet your individual needs. Contact us today to learn more about our dog bite practice area and how we can help you get justice for your dog bite injury. YOUR CASE will be OUR PRIORITY.

The Benefits of Hiring an Experienced Dog Bite Lawyer

Hiring an experienced dog bite lawyer offers several key advantages to individuals who have been injured by a dog bite in Delaware. First, our Delaware dog bite attorneys will be able to handle all aspects of their case, from investigation and evidence gathering to settlement negotiations or litigation if necessary. Our law firm and dog bite attorneys have the experience and knowledge of the law needed to successfully navigate the legal system on your behalf.

Furthermore, having an experienced attorney and legal team represent you during negotiations with insurance companies can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Furthermore, while it is possible to pursue a case without a lawyer, studies have shown that those who have an attorney representing them recover more than twice the amount of money than those who do not.

Why Schmittinger & Rodriguez
Is Right For You

At Schmittinger & Rodriguez, we understand how difficult and stressful it can be to deal with a dog bite case, especially if you are dealing with serious injuries and mounting medical bills. Our team has decades of combined experience handling dog bite cases, and we know how to effectively deal with insurance companies to ensure that our clients get the compensation they deserve.

We will work diligently to ensure that the negligent party is held accountable for their actions by:

- Investigating all details of the dog bite incident
- Examining records or other relevant evidence
- Obtaining all available insurance coverage documents from the defendant
- Building a strong case through evidence gathered

We also have a deep understanding of Delaware law, local laws, and all the legal issues, and will provide dedicated legal representation throughout your case. Our experienced attorneys are committed to providing you with personalized attention and will fight hard to get you the best possible outcome for your case. If you or someone you love has been injured in a dog bite incident, contact Schmittinger & Rodriguez today for a free consultation so that we can help you obtain justice and fair compensation for your losses. YOUR CASE. OUR PRIORITY.

Dog Bite FAQs

What are the laws regarding dog bites in Delaware?

In Delaware, the owner of a dog is liable for any injuries caused by the dog. This is known as strict liability. The dog owner may be held responsible even if the dog had never bitten anyone before and even if the owner was not aware that the dog had the potential to bite. Your Delaware dog bite lawyer can explain your rights to a personal injury claim.

Can I file a lawsuit if the dog was provoked?

It depends on the circumstances. If the dog attack was provoked and the provocation was the sole cause of the bite, the owner may not be liable. However, if the owner knew or should have known that the dog had a tendency to bite or was otherwise dangerous, the owner may still be liable.

Can I file a lawsuit if the dog was off-leash and running loose?

Yes. In Delaware, owners are required to keep their dogs on a leash or under control at all times. If the dog was off-leash and running loose, the owner may be held liable for any injuries the dog causes. Your dog bite attorney has experience guiding injury victims and filing personal injury cases.

What should I do if the dog owner doesn't have insurance?

Even if the dog owner doesn't have insurance, they may still be personally liable for any damages you suffer. Additionally, if the owner is a renter, the landlord's insurance may cover the damages. A lawyer can help you explore all of your options for recovering damages.

Dover Dog Bite Lawyers

NO FEE UNLESS WE WIN

$ millions

recovered For our clients

You Deserve Compensation For Someone Else's Negligence

Types Of Dog Bite
Cases We Handle

Understanding Your Rights After A Dog Bite Incident

Contact Schmittinger & Rodriguez

What Our Clients Say

Most Common Questions

What You Should Do If You Have Suffered A Dog Bite Injury

What Are The Most Common Dog Bite Injuries?

Who Is Liable If I Am Injured By A Dog Bite?

How Long Do I Have In Delaware To File A Claim For A Dog Bite Injury?

How Much Money Can I Collect For A Dog Bite Injury?

The Benefits of Hiring an Experienced Dog Bite Lawyer

Why Schmittinger & Rodriguez
Is Right For You

Dog Bite FAQs

Dover

Middletown

Rehoboth Beach

Dover Dog Bite Lawyers

NO FEE UNLESS WE WIN

$ millions

recovered For our clients

You Deserve Compensation For Someone Else's Negligence

Types Of Dog Bite Cases We Handle

Understanding Your Rights After A Dog Bite Incident

Contact Schmittinger & Rodriguez

What Our Clients Say

Most Common Questions

What You Should Do If You Have Suffered A Dog Bite Injury

What Are The Most Common Dog Bite Injuries?

Who Is Liable If I Am Injured By A Dog Bite?

How Long Do I Have In Delaware To File A Claim For A Dog Bite Injury?

How Much Money Can I Collect For A Dog Bite Injury?

The Benefits of Hiring an Experienced Dog Bite Lawyer

Why Schmittinger & Rodriguez Is Right For You

Dog Bite FAQs

Dover

Middletown

Rehoboth Beach

Types Of Dog Bite
Cases We Handle

Why Schmittinger & Rodriguez
Is Right For You