If your job requires that you work with or around dogs – as in making visits to a customer’s home, or if your employer keeps a dog on his property — there’s a possibility you may sustain injuries from a dog bite. Dog bites aren’t common work injuries, but when they do happen, they can be severe and result in missed work and wages.
If you were bitten by a dog at work, you may qualify for worker’s compensation benefits, but you must meet certain criteria. As with most worker’s compensation claims, however, it may prove difficult to actually get the compensation you need. An experienced, qualified dog bite attorney, like Kathryn Burmeister, can help you overcome obstacles to receiving the help you and your family deserve.
The law and dog bites while on the job
Your employer’s insurance policy covers any injury sustained at work, while performing work-related activities, or if the work environment makes you ill. This, of course, includes dog bites. There are certain criteria your dog bite event must meet in order to qualify for worker’s compensation.
You must be on the clock when the incident occurred. For instance, if you visit someone’s home to perform a work task and the homeowner’s dog bites you, then worker’s compensation benefits apply. You had an “implied invitation” to be on the property. But, if your dog bite occurred while at a restaurant during your lunch break, your claim may be denied.
Seek medical attention immediately after the bite. Once you’ve received treatment and are able, report the incident to your employer. Ask your employer to report the injury to the Bureau of Worker’s Compensation. Worker’s compensation benefits covers both lost wages and medical bills incurred due to the injury.
Take photos of the dog, your injuries, and the surrounding area. Once you’ve gotten to safety, take photos of your injuries immediately. If possible, take a picture of the dog and the area where the incident occurred. If it’s not possible to get a photo of the dog, write down everything you remember about the animal as well as a detailed account of what happened before the dog attacked.
Consult with a knowledgeable, experienced dog bite lawyer. Contact a skilled dog bite attorney, such as Kathryn Burmeister of Burmeister Law Firm to ensure your claim is correctly pursued and to help you navigate the complexities of the claim procedure. Ms. Burmeister will assess your case and fight for your rights to receive compensation in addition to and above that available through worker’s compensation.
Kathryn Burmeister will walk you through the entire procedure for a dog bite case. She will offer expert advice and compassionate support during this difficult time. With her proven track record, she will effectively dismantle and refute an opposing lawyer’s tactics. Don’t wait to get the compensation you deserve. Burmeister Law Firm never charges clients for consultations and always put clients’ needs before anything else. Give Kathryn Burmeister a call today!
