Best Dog Bite Lawyers Madison, WI

Madison, WI Dog Bite FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Madison, Wisconsin?

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Madison, Wisconsin is (608) 255-2345.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Madison, Wisconsin?

  To get a copy of police reports for incidents related to your case in Madison, Wisconsin, you may visit the Police Department in person or mail requests. You may also call Records at (608) 266-4075 or fax at (608) 267-1117.

• What should you do if a dog bites you or a family member in Madison?

  Victims should seek medical attention and treatment for their dog bites as soon as possible because they can cause infection. If rabies is suspected, they should contact Animal Control and have the dog quarantined. Following treatment, claimants should contact a Madison personal injury lawyer who specializes in dog bite cases to assist them in dealing with the owner's insurance company and obtaining compensation for their injuries.

• Can owners in Madison be held liable if they were unaware of their dog's aggressive tendencies?

  Yes. Because Wisconsin is a strict liability state, owners in Madison can be held liable even if they were unaware their dogs were aggressive. They are liable for any injuries and property damage caused by their dogs. If they were aware of their dogs' history of aggressive behavior or were notified of it, they will be liable for twice the amount of damages.

• How long do victims have after a dog bite incident in Madison to file an injury claim?

  A person in Madison who has been bitten by a dog has three years from the date of the bite to file a lawsuit. In Wisconsin, the three-year statute of limitations can be shortened or extended in certain circumstances, such as when children under the age of 18 are bitten by a dog. Minor victims may still be able to file a claim two years after reaching the age of 18.

• Can victims seek compensation even if they were partially to blame for the dog bite incident in Madison?

  Yes, dog bite victims in Madison can still receive compensation even if the incident was caused by their own negligence. In Wisconsin, they can be held partially liable if they provoked the attack, whether intentionally or unintentionally. The total amount of damages may be reduced based on their percentage of fault. If a claimant is found to be 51% or more responsible for their injuries, they may be barred from receiving compensation.

• What kind of witnesses can help prove an injury claim after a dog bite incident in Madison?

  Following a dog bite incident in Madison, victims should seek eyewitness testimony to provide information about what occurred. They can also work with doctors or medical experts to explain their injuries and the potential consequences. Dog experts can assist the court in understanding why claimants deserve compensation. Economists and vocational experts can also assist the insurance company in determining the value of the plaintiffs' future lost income and other expenses.