Virginia Dog Bite Lawyers

Dog Bite and Animal Attack Attorneys in Virginia and West Virginia

Dog bites and animal attacks can cause severe physical injuries, including deep lacerations, broken bones, nerve damage, and permanent scarring. Beyond the physical injuries, many victims — especially children — suffer significant psychological trauma, including fear, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

If you or a family member has been injured by a dog or other animal, you may have the right to pursue compensation from the animal's owner. Ritchie Law Firm handles dog bite and animal attack cases throughout Virginia and West Virginia, and our attorneys understand the laws in both states that govern animal owner liability.

Virginia Dog Bite Law

Virginia follows a modified one-bite rule under Virginia Code § 3.2-6540. A dog owner can be held liable for injuries caused by their dog if the owner knew or should have known that the dog had dangerous propensities. Evidence that can establish an owner's knowledge of their dog's dangerous nature includes:

• Prior biting incidents
• Aggressive behavior such as growling, snapping, or lunging
• A prior court finding that the dog is dangerous
• Keeping the dog chained or behind a "Beware of Dog" sign

Virginia also has a strict liability provision for dogs that have been previously found dangerous by a court. In West Virginia, dog bite law provides additional avenues for recovery.

Injuries and Compensation

Dog bite victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, including emergency treatment, surgery, wound care, and psychological counseling; lost wages; pain and suffering; scarring and disfigurement; and in severe cases, permanent disability. Our attorneys work to document all of your losses and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.