Vet Records help Dog Bite Victim Recover $125,000

A neighborhood party ended badly when an offer to fetch some drinks ended in a $125,000 settlement for a dog bite. Veterinarians had flagged Denise Dunham’s 130-pound Akita for signs of aggression in earlier visits. On the night of the party, Dunham, Claudio Hamrock (the plaintiff) and another woman had gone back to Dunham’s home to retrieve some drinks.

While Hamrock was sitting next to the dog, it bit her in the face and forearm. The injuries sustained from the dog bites have caused Hammock to accrue medical costs up to $24,000, and needing at least two more soft tissue augmentation procedures.

The trial held to determine whether or not the dog’s behavior was provoked by Hamrock or not proved difficult for attorneys on both sides. Veterinarians who had treated the dog testified on both sides, some stating that they had made the owner aware of the dog’s predisposition towards anger.

John R. Fletcher represented Hamrock, and contended that every vet has a manner by which they determine if dogs are aggressive. “Kuma,” the Akita, was walking around the house with the women when the incident occurred. “Local leash laws cover dogs roaming at large, but there’s no statute about what you have to do with a dog inside your own home,” Fletcher said. This case was determined by the owner’s duty of care to Hamrock, an invitee in the Dunhams’ home.” Ultimately, the jury decided in favor of Claudia Hamrock.

Virginia Dog Bite Lawyers

A dog attack can be a devastating experience especially when the victim is a small child. Many dog bite victims face serious physical injuries, scars, and emotional trauma. Our Virginia dog bite lawyers represent victims of dog bites and dog attacks throughout Virginia. If you’ve hurt by someone else’s dog, you have legal rights. Call or Email us to set up a free consultation with one of our Virginia Dog Bite Lawyers.