Imagine taking a stroll at the park, when suddenly an adorable dog trots over to you. In the blink of an eye, that dog is no longer adorable, takes a bite from your leg, and leaves you with a new fear of dogs and a painful injury. Dog bites are a common thing whether it's a minor nip, or a severe attack. It is very important to understand your rights following a dog bite. There are several factors that need to be taken into account when taking legal action after an attack. Here is a lawyer’s guide to navigating a dog bite: Seek Immediate Medical Attention Your health should always be your top priority. Even if the bite seems minor, it’s crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible. Dog bites can cause infections, nerve damage, and other complications that might not be immediately apparent. A medical professional can clean the wound, assess the severity, and provide necessary treatments like antibiotics or stitches. Additionally, having your injuries documented by a healthcare provider is vital for any potential legal claims. Identify the Dog and Its Owner If possible, try to identify the dog and its owner. This information will be crucial when filing a claim. Obtain the owner’s name, contact information, and details about the dog, including its vaccination history. If the owner is uncooperative or you’re unable to identify them, contact local animal control or the police. They can help locate the dog and ensure it’s properly quarantined to prevent further incidents. Report the Incident After seeking medical attention, it’s important to report the dog bite to local authorities, such as animal control or the health department. Filing a report creates an official record of the incident, which can be valuable if you decide to pursue a legal claim. It also helps protect others by ensuring that the dog is properly assessed and that any necessary actions are taken by the authorities. Document Everything Thorough documentation is key to building a strong case. Take photos of your injuries immediately after the incident and as they heal. Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments, including doctor visits, prescriptions, and any related expenses. If there were any witnesses to the attack, gather their contact information and statements. All of this evidence will support your claim and help your attorney advocate on your behalf. Understand Liability in Dog Bite Cases Liability in dog bite cases can vary depending on the laws in your state. In many states, dog owners are strictly liable for bites, meaning they are responsible for any injuries their dog causes, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression. In other states, the “one-bite rule” may apply, where the owner is only liable if they knew or should have known that the dog was dangerous. If the bite happens on the owner's private property, depending on the circumstances of you being on the property the owner might have a defense for the bite. Understanding the specific laws in your area is crucial, which is why consulting with a personal injury attorney is so important. They can help you navigate the legal landscape and determine the best course of action for your situation. Don’t Settle Too Quickly After a dog bite, the owner’s insurance company may offer you a quick settlement to cover your medical expenses. While this might seem like a convenient solution, it’s important to remember that initial offers are often lower than what you may be entitled to. Before accepting any settlement, consult with a personal injury attorney who can evaluate the full extent of your damages, including future medical needs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A dog bite can be a traumatizing experience and can leave someone with PTSD and lifelong trauma. An experienced attorney can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation. Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney Navigating the aftermath of a dog bite can be challenging, especially when dealing with insurance companies and legal issues. A personal injury attorney can provide invaluable guidance, helping you understand your rights, evaluate your claim, and handle all the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery. Contact JDB Law, PLLC today for a free consultation.

Understanding Wrongful Death Compensation: A Guide for Families Losing a loved one is one of life’s most troubling experiences, and it’s even more devastating when that loss is due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions. While no amount of money can truly make up for the loss of a loved one, wrongful death compensation can provide financial support and some sense of justice for grieving families. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding wrongful death compensation and how it can help you during such a difficult time. What is Wrongful Death? Wrongful death occurs when a person dies as a result of the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another party. This can happen in various circumstances, including: Car accidents caused by reckless or drunk driving Medical malpractice Workplace accidents Defective products Criminal activities Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim? Typically, the following parties can file a wrongful death claim: Immediate family members (spouses, children, parents) Life partners, financial dependents, and putative spouses Other family members (siblings, grandparents) in some jurisdictions Executors or personal representatives of the deceased’s estate It’s important to consult with an experienced wrongful death attorney to understand who is eligible to file a claim in your specific situation. Types of Wrongful Death Compensation Wrongful death compensation is intended to cover various damages that the deceased’s family or estate has suffered as a result of the untimely death. These damages can be categorized into economic and non-economic damages. Economic Damages Economic damages are intended to cover the financial losses resulting from the death, including: Medical Expenses: Costs incurred for medical treatment prior to the deceased’s death. Funeral and Burial Costs: Expenses related to the deceased’s funeral and burial services. Lost Wages and Benefits: Compensation for the income and benefits the deceased would have earned had they lived. Loss of Inheritance: The value of the inheritance the deceased would have accumulated and passed on to their heirs. Non-Economic Damages Non-economic damages compensate for the intangible losses experienced by the family, including: Loss of Companionship: The emotional pain and suffering experienced due to the loss of a loved one. Loss of Consortium: The loss of the deceased’s love, companionship, comfort, and guidance. Pain and Suffering: The mental anguish and emotional distress suffered by the deceased’s family. Punitive Damages In cases involving particularly egregious or malicious conduct, punitive damages may be awarded. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. How is Wrongful Death Compensation Determined? The amount of compensation awarded in a wrongful death claim depends on several factors, including: The Deceased’s Age and Health: Younger, healthier individuals are likely to have had a longer life expectancy and greater earning potential. The Deceased’s Income and Benefits: The decedent’s earning capacity and employment benefits are key factors in determining economic damages. The Relationship to the Deceased: Spouses, children, and parents may receive different amounts based on their dependence on the deceased. The Circumstances of Death: The nature and severity of the wrongful act can influence the amount of compensation, especially in cases involving punitive damages. The Importance of Legal Representation Navigating a wrongful death claim can be complex and emotionally challenging. Having an experienced personal injury attorney by your side is crucial to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. A skilled attorney can: Investigate the Case: Gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case to prove negligence or wrongdoing. Calculate Damages: Accurately assess economic and non-economic damages to seek fair compensation. Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Handle negotiations to secure a fair settlement or represent you in court if necessary. Provide Emotional Support: Offer compassionate guidance and support throughout the legal process. Conclusion While no compensation can replace the loss of a loved one, wrongful death compensation can provide essential financial support and a sense of justice for grieving families. At JDB Law, we understand the profound impact of losing a loved one and are committed to helping families navigate the legal complexities of wrongful death claims. If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions, contact us today for a compassionate consultation. Let us help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.

KSL News reported on a near life threatening motorcycle accident that happened on June 29, 2024, near Ogden, Utah. While the focus of the article was the heartwarming and wonderful story about the victim being reunited with the off-duty nurse who stepped in to help save her life, the article also tells us how the driver of a motorcycle had to swerve to avoid what seemed to be a reckless driver resulting in a tragic injury for his daughter who was the passenger of the motorcycle. We wish the victim and her family well and hope the recovery continues to go well. See, https://ksltv.com/670405/woman-injured-in-crash-reunited-with-off-duty-nurse-who-stopped-to-help-her/  While liability seem clear in this accident, there are a few common pitfalls that motorcycle riders should keep in mind to make sure they have the best protection possible if the worst happens and they are the victim of a similar negligent driver who pulls out in front of them. Riding a motorcycle offers an unmatched sense of freedom and adventure, especially in the state of Utah with its beautiful canyons and endless roads. However, along with the thrill of riding comes the responsibility of ensuring you’re adequately protected. Accidents involving a motorcycle almost always result in serious bodily injury, or death. Motorcycle insurance is not just a legal requirement in Utah, it’s a critical safety net that can protect you financially in the event of an accident. As personal injury attorneys, we want to help riders understand the complexity of motorcycle insurance in Utah so they can make informed decisions and stay safe on the road. Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in Utah Utah law requires all motorcyclists to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. This coverage is essential for protecting other drivers, passengers, and property if you are found at fault in an accident. The minimum liability coverage requirements in Utah are: $25,000 for bodily injury per person : This covers medical expenses and other costs if one person is injured in an accident. $65,000 for bodily injury per accident : This covers medical expenses and other costs if multiple people are injured in an accident. $15,000 for property damage : This covers damage to another person's property, such as a vehicle, building, or other objects. While these are the minimum requirements, they may not be sufficient to cover all expenses in the event of a serious accident. Many riders choose to carry higher limits or additional coverage to protect themselves fully since you cannot count on other drivers to carry more than the $25,000 minimum in bodily injury coverage. Optional Coverage to Consider While liability insurance is the only coverage required by law, there are several other types of coverage that Utah motorcyclists should consider to protect themselves more comprehensively: Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM) : This coverage protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who either doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages. Even though it is not required, it is highly recommended to take the extra step to get UM/UIM. Unfortunately there are a lot of people on the road who are either underinsured or don’t have insurance and the last thing you want is to be stuck with bills you can’t afford. And, we have had cases where our clients have decided to waive UM/UIM coverage with their agent. We strongly advise that motorcycle owners NOT waive this essential coverage! Personal Injury Protection (PIP) : Utah is a no-fault state, which means that your insurance should cover your medical expenses regardless of who is at fault in an accident. PIP gives you a minimum of $3,000 to go towards expenses you might have after an accident. However, unlike other motor vehicles, motorcycles are not required to have PIP coverage. Riders can opt-in for PIP, which covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. As with UM/UIM coverage, we strongly advise motorcycle owners to NOT waive their PIP coverage! Collision Coverage : Collision coverage pays for damage to your motorcycle resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object, regardless of who is at fault. This coverage is particularly valuable if your motorcycle is new or has a high market value. Comprehensive Coverage : Comprehensive coverage protects against non-collision-related damage, such as theft, vandalism, fire, or natural disasters. For those who store their bikes outside or in areas prone to extreme weather, comprehensive coverage is a smart investment. Medical Payments Coverage : Medical payments coverage, or MedPay, covers medical expenses for you and your passengers regardless of fault. This coverage can be an important supplement to health insurance, particularly in covering co-pays and deductibles. However, as long as you have good health insurance, MedPay may not be as important for motorcycle owners. Accessory Coverage : Motorcycles often come with custom parts and accessories that can be expensive to replace. Accessory coverage helps protect these items, including custom paint jobs, saddlebags, and upgraded parts, in the event of an accident or theft. What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Utah Even with comprehensive insurance coverage, the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. Here’s what you should do if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident in Utah: Seek Medical Attention : Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Report the Accident : Call the police and report the accident. Ensure that an official report is filed, as this will be important for any insurance claims or legal action. Gather Evidence : Take photos of the accident scene, including your motorcycle, any other vehicles involved, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses. Contact Your Insurance Company : Notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible. Be honest and thorough in your report, but avoid admitting fault, as this can complicate your claim. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney : If you’ve been injured in the accident, it’s advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney. They can help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. At JDB Law PLLC, we advocate for responsible coverage and are here to help you understand and maximize your insurance benefits. If you have questions about your coverage or need assistance after an accident, contact us today for expert guidance and support.

KSL News reported a tragic crash that occurred on Thursday, August 1, 2024, in Duchesne County, Utah. The news article reports that the victim and her friends were hit by a suspected DUI driver. The video of this crash scene shows the horrific damage to the vehicles. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families, and we wish them all a speedy recovery. See, https://ksltv.com/668518/teen-faces-a-long-recovery-after-she-was-hit-by-a-suspected-dui-driver/ While a DUI crash may seem straightforward when it comes to liability, there are often other issues that come up for the victim and their loved ones in dealing with the aftermath of such a terrible crash. Here are just a few things that victims in cases like these should keep in mind: Auto Insurance Coverage : In Utah the State requires drivers to have at least $3,000.00 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. This coverage is known as no-fault coverage since no matter who caused the accident, your own PIP coverage must be used to pay your initial medical bills. Additionally, the State of Utah only requires a minimum of $25,000.00 of bodily injury coverage (note that this amount is going up to $30,000.00 in 2025). That means that drivers can lawfully operate their vehicles with this minimum amount available to cover any bodily injury caused by their negligent driving (including driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol). As you can imagine, in a case like this one reported by KSL, the victims will have medical bills that far exceed this $25,000.00 minimum in coverage. Here is how this plays out for the injury victims: 1. PIP - the victim's PIP coverage pays medical bills up to their $3,000.00 limit (or higher if they have higher PIP coverage). 2. Bodily Injury (BI) Coverage - because the at-fault driver's BI insurance does not pay medical bills until the victim has completed all treatment, any medical bills beyond PIP will need to be submitted to the victim's own health insurance provider. This will ensure that the bills are paid and not sent to collections while the victim is still in treatment and recovering (which can take months or longer). Once the victim has finished treatment, all medical bills can be sent to the at-fault driver's BI insurance carrier for a lump sum settlement. But here is where we see the biggest problem in these types of cases: if the at-fault driver's BI coverage is only $25,000.00 (or even $50,000.00), and that amount is not enough to cover the victim's medical bills, what options do they have? Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage: Accidents are unpredictable and can happen to anyone, at any time. While having insurance is a legal requirement and provides a safety net, it’s crucial to understand that not all insurance policies are created equal. One essential component of a robust insurance policy is underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. Here’s why having good underinsured motorist coverage is important: 1. Protection Against Inadequate Insurance Despite mandatory insurance laws, many drivers carry only the minimum required liability insurance, which may not be sufficient to cover the costs of a serious accident. If you’re involved in an accident with an underinsured driver, their policy limits might be too low to cover your medical bills, property damage, and other expenses. Example: If the at-fault driver has a liability limit of $25,000, but your medical expenses alone amount to $50,000, you would be left with significant out-of-pocket costs. Good UIM coverage would help bridge this gap. 2. Comprehensive Medical Coverage Medical expenses following an accident can be exorbitant, encompassing emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment. Underinsured motorist coverage can help ensure that you receive the necessary medical care without facing financial hardship. Example: Your UIM coverage can help cover the cost of specialized treatments, physical therapy, or long-term care that might not be fully covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance. 3. Compensation for Lost Wages A severe accident can lead to time off work, either temporarily or permanently. Lost wages can compound the financial strain caused by medical bills and other expenses. Underinsured motorist coverage can provide compensation for lost income, helping to alleviate the financial burden during your recovery period. Example: If you’re unable to work for several months due to your injuries, your UIM coverage can help replace lost income, allowing you to focus on your recovery without worrying about financial instability. 4. Coverage for Pain and Suffering In addition to tangible costs like medical bills and lost wages, accidents can cause significant pain and suffering. This includes physical pain, emotional distress, and a reduced quality of life. Underinsured motorist coverage can provide compensation for these non-economic damages, offering some relief for the intangible impacts of an accident. Example: If you experience chronic pain or emotional trauma following an accident, UIM coverage can help compensate for these enduring challenges. 5. Protection for Passengers Your underinsured motorist coverage doesn’t just protect you—it also protects your passengers. If friends or family members are injured while riding in your vehicle, your UIM coverage can help cover their medical expenses and other associated costs. Example: If your child or a friend is injured in an accident caused by an underinsured driver, your UIM policy can help cover their medical treatment and recovery expenses. 6. Legal Peace of Mind Accidents involving underinsured drivers often lead to complex legal battles to recover adequate compensation. Having robust UIM coverage can simplify the process and reduce the need for protracted legal disputes. This coverage can expedite the claims process, allowing you to receive compensation more quickly. Example: Rather than pursuing a lengthy and costly lawsuit against an underinsured driver, your UIM coverage can provide immediate financial support, helping you avoid additional stress and legal expenses. 7. Financial Security Ultimately, good underinsured motorist coverage provides financial security in the face of the unexpected. It ensures that you and your loved ones are protected, even if the at-fault driver’s insurance falls short. This peace of mind is invaluable, knowing that you have a safety net in place. Example: In the event of a serious accident, your UIM coverage can prevent you from depleting your savings or going into debt to cover medical bills and other costs. Accidents involving underinsured drivers are more common than you might think, and the financial implications can be devastating. Having good underinsured motorist coverage is a critical aspect of a comprehensive insurance policy, offering protection and peace of mind when you need it most. It ensures that you’re not left financially vulnerable due to someone else’s inadequate insurance. At JDB Law PLLC, we advocate for responsible coverage and are here to help you understand and maximize your insurance benefits. If you have questions about your coverage or need assistance after an accident, contact us today for expert guidance and support.

When you suffer a personal injury due to someone else's negligence, it's important to understand what compensation you may be entitled to. Knowing what you can claim helps ensure that you receive the full benefits you deserve to cover your losses and support your recovery. Let's break down the various types of compensation available in personal injury cases: 1. Medical Expenses Medical expenses are often the largest part of a personal injury claim. These can include: Immediate medical costs: Emergency room visits, surgeries, and hospital stays. Ongoing medical treatment: Physical therapy, follow-up visits, and prescription medications. Future medical expenses: Costs related to long-term care or anticipated future treatments. 2. Lost Wages If you have missed work due to your injury, you can claim compensation for lost wages. This includes: Current lost income: The wages you’ve already lost due to your injury. Future lost income: If your injury affects your ability to work in the future, you can claim for projected loss of income. 3. Loss of Earning Capacity In some cases, an injury might permanently limit your ability to earn a living. Compensation for loss of earning capacity addresses the difference between your earnings before the injury and what you can expect to earn going forward. 4. Pain and Suffering Pain and suffering compensation covers the physical pain and emotional distress inflicted by your injury. This type of compensation is more subjective and can vary based on the severity of the injury, the impact on your daily life, and the duration of your suffering. 5. Emotional Distress Separate from pain and suffering, emotional distress compensation addresses psychological impacts such as anxiety, depression, and trauma that often occurs from the injury. This may require testimony from mental health professionals to substantiate your claim. 6. Loss of Consortium Loss of consortium pertains to the negative impact your injury has on your relationship with your spouse. This can include loss of companionship and affection. In some jurisdictions, children can also claim loss of consortium for the impact on their relationship with an injured parent. 7. Property Damage If your personal property was damaged in the incident that caused your injury (e.g., a car accident), you can claim compensation for repair or replacement costs. 8. Punitive Damages In cases where the defendant's behavior was particularly reckless or malicious, the court might award punitive damages. These are intended to punish the defendant and hopefully prevent similar conduct in the future. Punitive damages are given in addition to compensatory damages. 9. Out-of-Pocket Expenses You can also claim any out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a result of your injury. This can include costs like transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, or hiring help for household chores you can no longer perform. How to Maximize Your Compensation Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all your medical treatments, lost workdays, and expenses related to your injury. Seek Legal Advice: An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand the full extent of your claim and navigate the legal process. Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to your doctor's recommendations to show that you are taking your recovery seriously. Keep a Journal: Record your pain levels, emotional state, and how the injury affects your daily life to support your claim for pain and suffering. Understanding the various types of compensation available in personal injury cases is essential for ensuring that you receive the full benefits you're entitled to. At JDB Law, PLLC, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and securing the compensation you deserve. If you've been injured, contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you on your road to recovery. Contact Us If you have any questions or need legal assistance with your personal injury claim, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you every step of the way.

When it comes to personal injury cases, understanding the statute of limitations is crucial. At JDB Law, PLLC, we emphasize the importance of consulting with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you are aware of and adhere to the legal time limits for your case. This blog post will guide you through the essential aspects of statutes of limitations and how they impact personal injury claims. What is a Statute of Limitations? A statute of limitations is a law that sets the maximum time after an incident within which legal proceedings may be initiated. These time limits vary by state and by the type of claim, including personal injury, wrongful death, and premises liability, among others. For example, in Utah, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims resulting from auto accidents is four years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within the specified time frame can have severe consequences, including the dismissal of your case. This underscores the necessity of consulting with a personal injury attorney promptly to determine the applicable statute of limitations for your specific situation. Factors Affecting the Statute of Limitations While the statute of limitations provides a general timeframe, several factors can influence when the clock starts ticking or extend the filing deadline. These factors include: Type of Case: Different types of personal injury cases may have varying statutes of limitations. For instance, the statute for medical malpractice claims in Utah is two years from the date the injury was discovered or should have been discovered. Government Entities: Claims against government entities often have much shorter statutes of limitations. In Utah, you typically have only one year to file a claim against a government agency. Age of the Claimant: If the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations may be tolled, or paused, until they turn 18 years old. Alternatively, a parent or guardian can file on their behalf. Discovery Rule: In some cases, the statute of limitations starts from the date the injury was discovered or should have been discovered, rather than the date of the incident. Understanding these nuances is vital, and a personal injury attorney can help navigate these complexities to ensure your claim is filed timely and correctly. Why Timeliness is Critical One of the most compelling reasons to speak with an attorney immediately after an injury is to avoid missing the statute of limitations. Early consultation allows for thorough investigation, preservation of evidence, and timely filing of your claim. Delays can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation, as important evidence may be lost, and witness memories may fade. Moreover, negotiations with insurance companies can be time-consuming. If the statute of limitations is approaching, your attorney may need to file a lawsuit to preserve your claim, even if negotiations are still ongoing. Schedule a Consultation  At JDB Law, PLLC, we are dedicated to helping you understand and navigate the complexities of personal injury law, including the critical statutes of limitations. If you have been injured and believe you may have a claim, do not wait. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your legal rights are protected.