Emporia, VA Dog & Animal Bite Lawyer

Emporia, VA Dog Bite Lawyer Mark Hurt

Large, aggressive dogs can inflict substantial damage, but even mid-sized or small dogs can cause severe injuries. Even if not bitten, an individual could be knocked down, leading to debilitating injuries. In Virginia, dog owners can be liable for any injuries and damages caused by an attack, not just for bites.

At The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt, we have been successfully representing animal attack victims and their families for over two decades. If you or a loved one was injured by a dog in Virginia, we invite you to call our office to schedule a free consultation with experienced Emporia dog bite lawyer Mark Hurt. We represent injury clients on contingency, meaning we are only entitled to a fee if we recover compensation.

You May Be Entitled to Full Compensation for a Dog Bite Through a Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance Policy.

Most dog bites occur at the home of a friend or relative, making victims hesitant to file a report or pursue compensation. However, it is crucial to understand that, in many cases, a person’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance provides liability protection for personal injuries, including dog bites.  Consequently, firm-founding attorney Mark Hurt can typically obtain full compensation through an insurer without the need for contentious litigation.

What Dog Breeds Most Frequently Attack People?

Each year, roughly 4.5 million dog bite incidents are reported, 800,000 of which require medical treatment and 334,000 which are severe enough to warrant hospitalization. Further, more than 50% of all dog bite victims are innocent children.  If you or a family member was bitten or injured by a dog, it will be beneficial to hire an experienced dog bite lawyer.

While any dog can bite, certain breeds are most often associated with attacks, including:

  • Pit Bulls
  • Rottweilers
  • Doberman Pinschers
  • Wolf-Dog Hybrids
  • Bull Terriers
  • Bull Mastiffs
  • German Shepherds

Why Do Dogs Bite?

Dogs are often referred to as ‘man’s best friend;’ however, it is also critical to remember that they are also animals and can bite.  In most cases, dogs attack when they feel threatened, and any canine companion can bite regardless of its size, breed, or age.

Because dogs often attack after feeling threatened somehow, it is vital for everyone who interacts with animals to understand what may provoke such aggression.

  • Dogs often bite when defending themselves, their territories, or family members.
  • Suddenly approaching and startling a dog can provoke a dog bite.
  • Running away from a dog (even during play) can elicit a negative response.
  • If a dog is injured or ill, he or she may be more likely to lash out.
  • Fearful dogs may bite whoever approaches them.

Regardless of what prompts a bite, dog owners are responsible for training and keeping their animals under control at all times in Virginia. Failure to do so could result in liability if an adult or innocent child is harmed.

Virginia Dog Bite Laws

Virginians love their dogs, and today, we bring our canine companions everywhere. Although most dog owners are responsible, some fail to take proper safety precautions, even after their dogs show signs of aggression.  In Virginia, dog owners are protected by a ‘one bite’ law. This means that an animal must have previously shown a propensity for aggression for an owner to be held liable.  This can be established with proof of previous aggression or biting incidents.

A dog owner may still be liable, even when a dog has never shown aggression if their negligence led to an injury. For example, if an individual fails to obey a leash law or keep an animal in a fenced area, he or she may be liable for any resulting injuries.

As an experienced Emporia dog bite attorney, Mark Hurt can listen to the facts of your case, explain your legal options for seeking maximum compensation, including through insurance or a personal injury or negligence lawsuit.

What Types of Damages Am I Entitled to Pursue for a Dog Bite?

Dog bites can be vicious and leave a victim with severe, life-altering injuries. If you or a loved one was attacked by an animal in Virginia, you might be entitled to seek compensation for damages, including:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of future income
  • Pain and suffering
  • Psychological disorders
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Wrongful Death

What is Contributory Negligence, and How Can It Affect My Virginia Dog Bite Claim?

It is critical to note that Virginia is a contributory negligence state. This means that if a plaintiff is found in any way responsible for their own injury (even 1%), they will likely be barred from recovering compensation. For example, if an individual is teasing a dog, prompting the dog to attack, he or she will likely be found partially responsible and unable to recover compensation.

Because of Virginia’s strict contributory negligence law, it is not advisable for a victim to file a claim without the assistance of an experienced dog bite attorney.

Call Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation with Emporia Dog Bite Lawyer Mark Hurt.

If you or a loved one was injured in an animal attack, we encourage you to call our office to schedule a free consultation with Emporia VA dog bite attorney Mark Hurt. For over two decades, Mark has tenaciously sought justice and maximum compensation for injury victims, recovering millions of dollars to help cover medical and other expenses.

What Our Clients Say

Mary, Bart, and Mark helped me tremendously with my workers compensation case. We navigated a long (over a year) road together and they helped me to not only win my case, but obtain a settlement of over $125k. I would recommend the Offices of Mark Hurt to anyone needing someone to stand with them in their corner! Thanks again Mary and Bart!! :-)
Charles Dutcher
Charles Dutcher
1685471585
Extremely pleased with the prompt support and guidance from Michael. He and the office staff were great to work with. They walked us through the process and were able to have my daughter's traffic violation dismissed with 0 points.
ga thomson
ga thomson
1684936164
Bart and Mary were very professional and helpful with my claim. I appreciate all that you did for me. You were great.Thanks forall that you've done.Clifford E Boyer
Clifford Boyer
Clifford Boyer
1683668004
I started receiving services through this law firm in 2017 for my workers compensation case. Over the years, this firm has been attentive, kind, patient and understanding to my needs. My calls were returned promptly, if the associate was unavailable at that time and I have had ample opportunity to speak with Mr Hurt directly concerning my case. With Mary Wilson, Bart Conway, Mr Hurt and others behind the scene, my case has progressed smoothly. I am very pleased with the services and attention I received at this firm and would recommend Mr Hurt, Mary and Bart for your needs.
Teresa Harris
Teresa Harris
1683569779
We hired Mr. Hurt to help settle a worker’s comp injury case for my husband. Mark, Bart, and Mary worked tirelessly to resolve his case and reach a settlement we were pleased with. They were always available to answer questions and returned calls in a timely manner.
K F
K F
1682489385
We were fortunate to find the Law Offices of Mark T. Hunt to help us set up our estate. Melanie was a joy to work with. She did a wonderful job putting together all of the documents needed to complete our estate planning.
Roxanne Mcfall
Roxanne Mcfall
1681766365
The office got right back to me and were compassionate about my sensitive situation
polly deal
polly deal
1680754180
Jessica was helpful in assisting me with my disability claim!
Amber Snapp
Amber Snapp
1680618358
Jessica was super helpful when I had questions about submitting my claim for disability. She also got me a case manager quickly!
Amber Petrovich
Amber Petrovich
1680618228
I have only praise for the Mark T Hurt firm and especially Michael Miles. Michael was very helpful in guiding me through the court process ans assuring a good outcome. I would recommend this firm and Michael in particular if you need representation in Virginia!
Dave Dalpiaz
Dave Dalpiaz
1680114987
I called and spoke with Jessica in the Disability Dept. after my Denial and she was right on top of getting me the paperwork to Hire them as my Representatives to Handle my claim from here on out
Allen Smith
Allen Smith
1679416063
Jessica was extremely helpful at assisting me with getting me in the process to file my disability case.
Jason Harris
Jason Harris
1678138281
Thank youJessica from the Social security DeptU were very Helpful
Christal Postema
Christal Postema
1678134153
Jessica in theSoccial Secuity Dept was great
Bryon Nimmo
Bryon Nimmo
1678130439
I spoke with Jessica and she was fantastic! She helped me get my social security disability application started and set up with a case manager.
Rebecca Hunt Ford
Rebecca Hunt Ford
1678128980
Jessica @ Social Security Department was very helpful and friendly with us today.
Winonia Blankenship
Winonia Blankenship
1678125271
I had a ticket and was upset. I did not want points on my license. Frankie was amazing and made sure all my bases were covered. The Law Office of Mark Hurt did a wonderful job and got my ticket completely dismissed!!!! I am so glad they helped me. They were so nice and answered all my questions. I never had to worry after I talked with them. I would highly recommend that anyone who needs help with a ticket to talk with this firm!! Thank you so much for everything!!!
Nichloas Wyatt
Nichloas Wyatt
1677981214
Jessica in Disability is awesome!! She replies quickly and gets things done. I’m very satisfied with my choice and feel great that it is in their hands!
laura dykes
laura dykes
1677875154
The individuals I spoke with were courteous, helpful, and thorough. Thank you Jessica.
RoseMarie Whisnant
RoseMarie Whisnant
1677785574
Jessica and the disability dept are very helpful and give excellent assistance with filling a claim very glad I contacted them
Jessie Hawks
Jessie Hawks
1677680471
Was very easy process. Jessica was very friendly and helpful while applying for Social Security Disability.
Darlene Robinson
Darlene Robinson
1677623644
Thank you so much Jessica for helping me with my social security disability case! You were kind, helpful, and understanding. I greatly appreciate you!
Kelly Bragg
Kelly Bragg
1677613932
Jessica and the group started helping me with my disability case the same day I called. 10/10 recommend
Brittany Poole
Brittany Poole
1677612031
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