Texas is the top state in the country for fatal dog attacks. Texas abides by a “one-bite” rule for determining liability (legal accountability) for dog bite injuries, which can make it difficult for victims to recover financial compensation from pet owners. Finding the right San Antonio personal injury attorney to represent you can pave the way for a more successful dog bite injury claim.
Have You Handled Dog Bite Injury Cases Before?
Just because a lawyer says he or she practices personal injury law does not mean the law firm is the right fit for your dog bite injury case. Ask about the attorney’s experience specifically handling dog bite cases. That way, you can rest assured that the lawyer understands Texas’s related laws and statutes, including local leash laws.
If your case involves an injured minor, be sure to ask about the attorney’s history representing child victims, as well. Finally, if you are seeking representation for a wrongful death case after a fatal dog attack takes a loved one’s life, look for a San Antonio dog bite injury lawyer with experience in this practice area.
How Will You Navigate My Case?
Make sure that you and the attorney are on the same page when it comes to the future of your case. Ask the attorney how he or she plans on handling your dog bite injury claim, including who will be the lead attorney on your case. You do not want to hire a law firm that will hand your case off to an assistant or paralegal. Your attorney should be meticulous with the investigation, evaluation and navigation of your dog bite injury case.
How Much Is My Case Worth?
Most personal injury lawyers will not take cases with values that are too low to warrant attorney’s fees. If you only suffered minor injuries in a dog attack, for example, a lawyer will most likely recommend self-representation.
Ask a prospective attorney how much your case might be worth. If he or she believes you have a high-value case, such as one with catastrophic injuries, the attorney may recommend legal representation to get the most out of your claim.
What Is Your Success Rate?
Although a history of success does not necessarily mean that an attorney will win your case, it does show that the law firm has what it takes to achieve positive results. Ask to see the attorney’s track record, success rate or the outcomes of other dog bite injury cases for an idea of what the attorney is capable of.
Can You Take My Case to Court?
The majority of personal injury cases filed in Texas reach settlements, meaning they don’t have to go to trial. However, hiring an attorney with trial capabilities is still important for the outcome and success of your dog bite injury claim. Trial experience signals to an insurance company that you are capable of going to court, which in turn could lead to a higher settlement offer.
How Much Do Your Services Cost?
You should leave a free consultation with an attorney with a clear understanding of what to expect in terms of the attorney’s fees. Find a dog bite injury lawyer who operates on a contingency fee basis to avoid paying for your legal representation out of pocket.
This payment arrangement means that you’ll only pay your lawyer if you win your case and receive financial compensation for your injuries and losses. Contingency fees will motivate the attorney to achieve the highest possible settlement or verdict for your dog bite case.
If you’re ready to discuss your dog bite injury claim with a compassionate, knowledgeable and highly experienced dog bite attorney in Texas, contact Hill Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys for a free case evaluation.