Dog bites can be traumatic, leaving victims with painful injuries, medical bills, and lasting emotional scars. If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog in Idaho, you may have the right to pursue compensation. But to build a strong case, evidence is key.
At Johnson & Lundgreen, we’ve helped dog bite victims across Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Twin Falls recover the damages they deserve. Here’s what you need to know about the types of evidence that can strengthen your Idaho dog bite claim.
Why Evidence Matters in Dog Bite Cases
Unlike car accidents, where a police report often makes fault clearer, dog bite cases may involve conflicting stories between the victim and the dog’s owner. Evidence helps establish:
- Liability: That the dog’s owner failed to properly control their animal
- Injuries: The extent of the physical harm caused by the bite
- Damages: The financial and emotional toll of the attack
Without strong evidence, insurance companies or courts may minimize your claim—or deny it entirely.
Types of Evidence That Can Strengthen Your Claim
Medical Records
Medical documentation is often the most important piece of evidence in a dog bite case. It shows not only that you were bitten but also the seriousness of the injuries. Keep copies of:
- Emergency room or urgent care reports
- Doctor’s notes and treatment plans
- Photographs of wounds taken during treatment
- Prescriptions for antibiotics or pain management
These records help connect the dog bite directly to the harm you suffered.
Photographs and Videos
Pictures can tell a powerful story. Document:
- Your injuries immediately after the bite and throughout recovery
- The location of the attack (yard, park, sidewalk, etc.)
- The dog involved, if safely possible
Clear visuals can be compelling evidence for judges, juries, or insurance adjusters.
Witness Statements
If anyone saw the attack, their testimony can provide valuable third-party confirmation of what happened. Witnesses may include:
- Neighbors
- Bystanders
- Delivery drivers or service workers nearby
Getting their contact information right away can make it easier to collect formal statements later.
Animal Control or Police Reports
If law enforcement or animal control responded, their reports can help back up your version of events. These documents may include details about:
- The dog’s history of aggression
- Citations issued to the owner
- Rabies vaccination status
In Idaho, prior aggressive behavior by a dog can be particularly important for establishing negligence or liability, and maximizing the claim for damages.
Proof of Financial Losses
To recover damages, you’ll need to show the financial impact of the bite. Evidence may include:
- Medical bills and invoices
- Pay stubs showing missed work
- Receipts for therapy or counseling
- Costs of scar revision surgery, future scar revision, or long-term care
These records help calculate both economic and non-economic damages in your case.
Idaho Dog Bite Laws and Liability
Idaho does not have a strict liability dog bite statute like some other states. Idaho law can be tricky to navigate. Statutes and the common law both may have an impact on how the claim will be handled. A dog’s prior history and the particular circumstances are very important in being able to establish negligence and/or reckless conduct that will lead to a substantial award of damages.
Because of this, gathering strong evidence of the dog’s behavior, owner negligence, and your damages is essential.
How Johnson & Lundgreen Can Help
After a dog bite, victims often find themselves dealing with pain, medical treatment, and an uncooperative dog owner. At Johnson & Lundgreen, we take the burden off your shoulders by:
- Investigating the incident thoroughly
- Collecting and preserving crucial evidence
- Working with medical experts to document injuries
- Negotiating aggressively with insurers
- Filing suit if necessary to protect your rights
Our attorneys are well-versed in Idaho law and understand the strategies insurance companies employ to minimize payouts. We’re committed to securing the full compensation you deserve.
Building a Strong Dog Bite Claim in Idaho
Dog bite injuries can leave lasting physical and emotional damage. But with the right evidence—and the right legal team—you can hold negligent dog owners accountable.
If you or a loved one has been bitten in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Twin Falls, or anywhere in Idaho, don’t wait to get legal help. At Johnson & Lundgreen, we’re ready to stand by your side, gather the evidence you need, and fight for your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation.