Dog bites can be traumatic and lead to serious physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Ontario, you may be entitled to compensation under the law. Understanding how dog bite claims work is important to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
At Goodman Elbassiouni LLP, our Toronto dog bite lawyers are here to help you navigate the legal system and secure fair compensation. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Toronto or Ontario, don’t hesitate to contact a member of our team today. You can call our Toronto office at 905-265-1005 or fill out our online contact form at your earliest convenience.
The Dog Owners’ Liability Act in Ontario
In Ontario, the Dog Owners’ Liability Act (DOLA) governs most dog bite claims filed in the province. Under the legislation, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries or damages caused by their dogs. This means that even if the owner took reasonable precautions to prevent the attack, they can still be held responsible for a victim’s injuries.
Key points of DOLA include:
- Strict Liability: The owner will be responsible for any damages caused by their dog regardless of whether their dog has a history of aggression or the owner was negligent during the incident.
- Shared Liability: If a victim is found to have provoked the dog, the court may reduce compensation owed based on the degree of the victim’s contribution to the incident.
Dog owners in Ontario should remain aware of DOLA and how it can apply to the actions of their pets. It is always best practice to keep dogs on leashes in public and warn others if your dog has a history of aggression or reactiveness. You can read more about keeping your pets safe and responsible ownership in Ontario here.
Filing and Proving a Dog Bite Claim
To file a claim for a dog bite, you’ll typically begin by gathering evidence of the attack. This might include:
- Medical records
- Witness statements
- Photographs
- Any other relevant information about the dog or its owner
- And more
By working with a personal injury lawyer, you will be able to send a letter to the dog owner or their insurance provider, outlining the damages and compensation you are seeking for your injuries. If you cannot reach an agreement or settlement, your lawyer may file a lawsuit in court on your behalf to pursue fair compensation.
While the Dog Owner’s Liability Act imposes strict liability on owners, it’s still essential to present strong evidence to support your claim when you have been bitten by a dog. By working with a skilled personal injury lawyer, you can establish:
- Ownership: Proof that the defendant owns the dog responsible for the bite in question.
- Injuries: Medical records and expert opinions demonstrating the extent of your injuries.
- Damages: Evidence of your financial losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and therapy costs incurred due to the bite.
In cases where the dog owner argues that you provoked the dog, your lawyer can work to refute the claim and protect your right to full compensation.
Under the Ontario Limitations Act, it’s important to remember that victims generally have two years from the date of the dog bite to file their personal injury claim. This timeline can vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case. Consulting an experienced lawyer as soon as possible will ensure that you meet all legal deadlines and that your claim is handled with care.
What Kind of Compensation is Available for Dog Bite Claims?
Victims of dog bites in Ontario may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages. The purpose of compensation following a dog bite is to help you recover financially, physically, and emotionally from the incident. Here’s a breakdown of what you may be able to claim:
- Medical Expenses: These include costs for emergency treatment, follow-up doctor visits, medication, surgeries, physical therapy, and more. If you require long-term rehabilitation for your injury, you can also include these costs.
- Lost Income: If your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently, you can claim compensation for the wages you have lost or diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: This includes compensation for the intangible physical pain and emotional trauma caused by your attack, like anxiety, PTSD, or a future fear of animals.
- Disfigurement and Scarring: If your attack results in permanent scars or disfigurement, you may be entitled to additional damages for the impact on your appearance or confidence.
- Property Damage: If any of your property or personal items are damaged during your attack, like your clothes, glasses, electronic devices, or equipment, it can be included in your claim.
- Future Care Needs: Severe injuries that require ongoing medical treatment, therapy, or home care may also be compensable.
Contact Our Toronto Dog Bite Lawyers at Goodman Elbassiouni LLP for Help
At Goodman Elbassiouni LLP, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a dog bite can take on your life. Our compassionate injury lawyers are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. We’ll handle every aspect of your claim, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court when necessary.
Don’t let a dog bite derail your life. Contact Goodman Elbassiouni LLP today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your legal options. You can call our Toronto office at 905-265-1005 or fill out our online contact form at your earliest convenience.
