One of Wisconsin’s Most Respected Personal Injury Law Firms
For more than 30 years, the Milwaukee personal injury lawyers at Murphy & Prachthauser have represented persons injured by the negligence of others. The firms’ attorneys have won multi-million dollar awards or settlements for dozens of clients. Our attorneys have achieved national and local recognition. The firm has received the highest possible rating for ability and ethics by Martindale-Hubbell, a peer review service that has been publishing its lawyer ratings for over a century.
At Murphy & Prachthauser we practice personal injury law the way it should be practiced – motivated and equipped to do our best for you. We take pride in being good lawyers who help people.
Results
- $16.8 Million Verdict – Auto Accident Injured Volunteer – Reported by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
- $11.4 Million Verdict – Falling Merchandise in Retail Store – Wisconsin Law Journal
- $8 Million Verdict Automotive Design Defect – Defective Roof – Reported by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
- $5 Million Settlement – Automotive Design Defect – Defective Car Roof – Reported by Wisconsin State Journal
Firm News
“Dog Bite Statute” May Apply if Your Dog Causes Someone to “Bite the Dust”
Murphy & Prachthauser attorneys recently settled a case on behalf of a man who is an avid bicyclist. He suffered a severe injury when an unleashed dog ran onto a bicycle path. The man was startled and stopped suddenly to avoid the dog, causing him to fly off his bike, crashing onto the pavement.
Many of us own and love dogs. They are companions and members of our families. But, dog owners have to be aware that in Wisconsin, they are responsible for any injuries caused by their dogs. Wisconsin has a law commonly known as the “Dog Bite Statute.” The common name is misleading, however, because a dog owner is liable for any injuries caused by their dog, not just a bite. An owner of even the friendliest dog is liable if that dog playfully jumps up and knocks a person to the ground, injuring them.
Most communities also have laws requiring dogs be on a leash at all times when on public property. These laws are often considered to be “Safety Statutes.” When a person violates a Safety Statute and causes another person to be injured he is financially liable for those injuries.
While dog owners may know that their dogs are friendly and are only being curious, joggers, walkers, and bicyclists don’t know the nature of your dog. They may be afraid of dogs and may be easily startled or frightened by a strange dog bounding at them.
As a dog owner, do what is best for both you and your pet and attempt to avoid putting yourself in a position where your pet could injure another person. Abide by safety statutes, use a leash, and be aware of your surroundings and you will be able to reduce the risk of your dog causing serious injury to others.
