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How Long Before I Get a Recovery?

Fortunately, our lawyers get cases resolve (without a lawsuit) about 95% of the time.  On average, resolution often takes three months to a year on average, without litigation.  For more, click here to learn about the time that litigation takes.

 

What Makes a Case Take Longer to Evaluate and Settle? 

You, the injured party, should avoid signing a general release of claims for compensation, until you know whether your must usually sign a release to get paid compensation, and you do not want to release your claims until you know the full extent of your injuries.

Watching, showing the time

Getting Paid Full and Fair Compensation
Our Pittsburgh dog bite lawyers work to resolve an animal attack claim as early as possible.  When you settle, you lose the right to sue, so before you settle you should consider:
  • Was there any nerve damage or loss of feeling that not come back?
  • Will the scar continue to improve over time or is this as good as it will get?
  • Is there chance of symptoms flaring up?
  • Will this injury interfere with your work in the future?
  • Are there any unpaid medical bills out there?  Once you settle, you cannot come back for more money.
  • Has the risk of infection passed?
  • Are there items about which you have not informed your attorney, like damage to clothing from the attack?
  • How is your psychological state?  Have you received sufficient benefit from counseling, or are you thinking of talking to a mental health professional in the future?
  • Have you told your attorney about every facility where you have received treatment?  Were the records ordered, and taken into account when a settlement demand was made?
Claims For Children 
When children are injured in an animal attack, the court must approve the settlement.  Note: this will take extra time and work to prepare and present a petition to the Orphan’s Court judge.  That said, our Pittsburgh attorneys handle this in a matter of weeks, not months.
All these things can have an effect on the timing of settlement.  However, don’t worry. Each Pittsburgh lawyer at our firm will build a compelling case for liability and work to convince the dog owner (or his insurance company) that your damages are very serious and should garner top dollar.

 

Settlement With Litigation 
The above describes the process to fully evaluate and settle a claim without litigation.   Click here to learn how (1) long each stage of litigation will take, and (2) what court will hear the case.
Or, simply contact our dog bite advocates today for a free consultation!

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