Dog bites pose the potential to cause severe physical and emotional injuries, leaving victims facing medical bills, lost wages, and lasting trauma. Understanding your legal rights and options after such an incident is crucial. The dog bite attorneys frequently address a range of questions from individuals seeking justice and compensation.
Here is important information about the law firm and common dog bite law questions answered by lawyers at Vito & Dollenmaier Law.
Vito & Dollenmaier Law
Vito & Dollenmaier Law is a prominent personal injury law firm co-founded by attorneys Joseph V. Vito and Nicholas S. Dollenmaier. Joseph Vito was admitted to the Illinois bar in 2004 and Nicholas Dollenmaier in 2017, suggesting a foundation leveraging years of combined experience in the personal injury field.
The dog bite attorneys at Vito & Dollenmaier Law have earned recognition for their legal prowess. Joseph Vito has been recognized as a Super Lawyer since 2020 and received the Litigator of the Year award from the American Institute of Trial Lawyers in 2023. Nicholas Dollenmaier has been recognized by The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 for Illinois.
While specific “most notable wins” for dog bite cases aren’t publicly detailed with exact figures, the firm states its commitment to securing maximum possible compensation for their clients, covering medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The firm’s commitment extends beyond legal representation. Joe Vito and Nick Dollenmaier, are actively involved in their communities as elected officials and board members of various organizations. Joe Vito serves as a Trustee in the Village of Wheeling and is a board member of the Greater Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce. He also dedicates his time to coaching the Wheeling High School trial team, mentoring aspiring legal minds.
Nick Dollenmaier is a Trustee in Fremont Township and a co-founder and board member of the Giving Group, an organization that focuses on helping children, veterans, and pets through fundraisers and community service.
Common Dog Bite Law Questions
When a dog bite occurs, victims often face a confusing legal landscape. Here are some common dog bite law questions answered by lawyers at Vito & Dollenmaier Law:
1. Do I Need a Dog Bite Attorney?
Absolutely. While many dog bite incidents seem straightforward, securing fair compensation can be complex. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and a skilled attorney can advocate for your rights, gather necessary evidence, and ensure all damages are accounted for.
2. What Kind of Injuries Can Result from a Dog Bite?
Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, from superficial cuts and scrapes to severe puncture wounds, lacerations, nerve damage, and even broken bones.
Infections are a significant risk, and in some cases, reconstructive surgery may be necessary. Beyond the physical, victims often suffer emotional trauma, including anxiety, nightmares, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), all of which are considered compensable damages.
3. How Much Is My Dog Bite Case Worth?
The value of a dog bite claim varies greatly depending on the severity of the injuries and their impact on the victim’s life. Factors considered include medical bills (past and future), lost income due to inability to work, ongoing therapy (physical or psychological), permanent scarring or disfigurement, and pain and suffering.
4. What Should I Do After a Dog Bite?
Immediate steps include seeking medical attention for your injuries, even if they seem minor. Documenting everything is crucial: take photos of your injuries, the dog, and the location of the incident. Obtain contact information for the dog owner and any witnesses. Additionally, report the bite to local animal control.
Understanding these common dog bite law questions answered by lawyers at Vito & Dollenmaier Law is crucial for anyone who has experienced a dog bite. The firm’s combination of legal expertise and community dedication positions them as a valuable resource for victims seeking justice and recovery.