This just happened about 7 hrs. ago..
My sister's 9 yr old daughter got bit by a Dachshund. It sounds like not much but he tore half of my nieces bottom lip off and doctors say her lip will never be right...she will need to have some cosmetic surgery. What happened was my niece and a friend of hers were playing by his house and another little girl and her grandfather were walking the dog and my niece asked if she could pet the dog and the grandfather said yes. Everything was fine until she went to get up, the dog latched on her lip and tore it. Some of it had to be cut off. I told my sister she needs to look at her options because my niece could need a few surgeries. Not to mention my sister missed work. Some kind of pain and suffering? Punitive damages? Hospital bills? Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Answers & Comments
Verified answer
Oh my goodness, I am so sorry. I hope she is alright.
Most definitely. She has every right to sew. I'm certain she can get something for pain and suffering...not to mention what effects it could have on your niece later in life (fear of dogs, self conscious, etc.) I would also look into the dog's vet records to make sure that he has had his rabies shots and everything. I would definitely take advantage of this situation. This could be a way to get money to fix your niece's lip in the future.
Again, I'm very sorry. I hope everything goes well with her recovery and I do hope that I helped you in some way. I don't know if this means anything to you, but I will keep your niece and her family in my prayers. I wish you the best.
yes, she should sue! She would get money for plastic surgeries(will need more than one most likely), pain and suffering, all doctor and hospital bills. No punitive damages would be awarded
She should not go to small claims court either because most states have a $5,000 limit there.
She absolutely can sue for the dog bite! Does she know the name or address of the person who's dog it is? If so, definately tell her to contact an attorney. It's also possible to sue in small claims court, but then you can't sue for pain and suffering, just the medical bills. Good luck.
Your sister can absolutely sue! Def. for all the reasons you listed that took place and will take place. Good luck to her and her daughter. How traumatic! Poor little girl!
if animal control and police were called to the scene at the time she can...but if they wasn't you may not be able too..