Calculating Denver Dog Bite Damages

When someone has been injured due to a dog bite, they may be able to collect three types of damages. Economic damages are damages that include medical bills, lost wages, and other types of out-of-pocket expenses. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life. Punitive damages are damages exceeding the compensation and are awarded to punish the defendant. However, it should be noted that punitive damages are rarely awarded.

If a dog bite has caused you an injury, reach out to a skilled lawyer who is experienced in calculating Denver dog bite claims. An accomplished attorney could fight for you to ensure that you are able to collect the dog bite damages that you deserve.

Severity of Injuries Effect on Damages

The severity of a dog bite and the permanency of the injury can dramatically increase the potential recovery. When an injury resolves quickly, the recovery could be reduced as opposed to an injury that is permanent or long-term. Catastrophic injuries and other injuries that need serious medical attention could further prove that the defendant was negligent. This is why it is imperative that an injured individual seeks medical attention right away following a dog bite incident. The medical records can be used as proof as to how serious the injuries are.

Calculating Economic and Non-Economic Damages

Economic damages are easier to calculate than non-economic damages due to the fact that economic damages can be calculated using statistical data. On the other hand, non-economic damages will be calculated by looking at previous similar cases, talking to doctors, and doing other types of investigative research. When a case goes to trial, the jury will make the decision on how much non-economic damages should be awarded. This is why it is important to obtain a lawyer who is not only capable of calculating Denver dog bite claims but is also able to help a jury understand the severity of the injuries and how the accident impacted the plaintiff.

How Calculations are Demonstrated in Front of Judge and Jury

It is important to remember that the jury is the ultimate decision maker on what the injured party might recover. They can increase and decrease the economic and non-economic damages based on a multitude of factors including, but not limited to, the credibility of all the involved parties. Economic damages are presented at trial or during litigation by introducing medical bills and employee pay stubs as evidence. An attorney could bring in an economist who can explain how the accident has impacted the individual financially. The lawyer may also use doctors to testify about the treatment and why it was medically necessary.

When a Plaintiff May be Barred from Recovery

When the plaintiff is found to be negligent, that can reduce the amount they recover. Colorado is a modified comparative state, which means that a plaintiff who is found to be at least 50 percent at fault for the accident cannot recover damages. Also, when the injured party is a Medicaid recipient, the amount awarded might also be reduced to the actual amount that was paid and not the billed amount. For more information about calculating Denver dog bite damages, contact a well-established lawyer.