Animal Attacks

Millions of Americans own dogs and other domesticated animals. These family pets often serve a dual purpose: to provide us companionship and also, to protect us from harm. However, while certain animals, especially dogs, may be man’s best friend, they can also be our worst enemy. Undoubtedly, dog bites and animal attacks often cause victims to sustain serious and life threatening injuries. Sometimes, these injuries are so bad that they can leave a person both emotionally and physically scarred, forcing them to undergo numerous surgeries to correct the physical damage they sustained. As a result, the State of Maine is especially tough on dog and animal attacks, making owners fully responsible for all damages caused, even if the animal had no prior history of violence.

If you or a loved one was injured by another person’s dog or other animal, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Don’t wait to receive the legal representation you deserve - contact Peter Thompson & Associates now at 1 800.804.2004 to schedule your completely confidential initial consultation. Our team of qualified Maine animal attack attorneys will take the time you need to answer all of your questions, absolutely free. We will also review all of your legal options and help you make informed decisions in your case. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make a difference for you!

In Maine, there are two laws that govern dog bite and animal attacks. These are as follows:

• Negligence. Under Maine’s negligence statute, if a person is injured as a result of the failure of a dog owner or keeper to exercise reasonable care in discharging their duties (i.e., to keep the animal on a leash and to ensure that they are properly trained), then they may be found liable for the resulting injuries. However, if the injured party caused the event that led to the injuries, then they may not be able to recover damages.
• Strict liability. Pursuant to Maine’s strict liability statute, if a person sustains injured by a dog or other animal that is off an owner or keeper’s property, said person may be held legally responsible for all resulting damages. There is no proof of negligence that must be shown; liability occurs by virtue of the attack happening. The only exception to this law is if the person attacked was at greater fault than the owner or keeper.

While each case is different, dog and other animal attack victims may seek damages for the following (note that this list is not exhaustive and may vary depending upon the specific set of circumstances):

• Pain and suffering
• Present and future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages

While there are many personal injury attorneys in the United States, not all are qualified to handle dog and animal attack cases. At Peter Thompson & Associates, our highly experienced personal injury attorneys have representing hundreds of dog and animal attacked victims located throughout the State of Maine. Since these types of cases can be rather complex, it is crucial to hire someone that has the knowledge and experience to get you results. The attorneys at Peter Thompson & Associates leave no stone unturned and, will take all steps necessary to hold those accountable for your injuries. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.

If you have been injured by a dog or other animal in Maine, the experienced, knowledgeable, and highly qualified personal injury attorneys at Peter Thompson & Associates can help. We offer excellence of legal services to all animal attack victims, guiding you towards a full and complete recovery. Call us today at 1 800.804.2004 to schedule an initial consultation at one of our conveniently located offices in Falmouth, Bangor, and Portland or at an office meeting location in your town. Home and hospital visits are available. We look forward to providing you with superior legal services.