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Lafayette Dog Bite Lawyer

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Dog bite lawyer lafayette, la

Dog bites can be traumatic for everyone involved, including the dog. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recently stated that 64 million households in the United States own a dog. In Louisiana, 54.5% of homes have at least one dog. 

Our law firm loves dogs. We are dog owners ourselves. However, we realize that if a dog bites someone, then the owner of that dog must be held responsible. 

Millions Of People Are Bitten Each Year By Dogs

 • According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Humane Society, there are approximately 4.7 million dog bites every year in the U.S., and it’s believed this estimate is low.

• Dog bites occur roughly every 75 seconds in the United States (CDC).

• Each day, over 1000 citizens need emergency medical care to treat dog bite injuries (CDC).

Most concerning is that the Humane Society estimates 51% of dog bite victims are children. 

Dog Bite Lawyer Lafayette, La

If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite attack, it’s important to hire a lawyer with proven results. Our firm has won millions for dog bite victims throughout the last 30 years. To learn more about how we can help you with your dog bite attack, reach out to our office. We offer free consultations, and we will put together the best plan to go forward towards you regaining your life back after a dog bite. 

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No Fee Unless We Win. Personal Injury Attorney - Lafayette, La

Liability For Dog Bites

In Louisiana, under CC 2321, the dog owners are to be held liable for any damages caused by their pets. The victim must prove that the owner could’ve prevented the injuries or damage caused by their dog and that the victim didn’t provoke the dog.

However, it also allows animal attack victims to bring a cause of action based on negligence if they can prove the following elements: 

  • The owner knew or should’ve known that their dog would cause an injury; 
  • The owner could’ve prevented the injuries if they had exercised reasonable care, and
  • The owner failed to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to the victim.

For example, if the owner knows his or her dog is “dangerous,” then they have a duty to protect people that come around that dog by restraining or confining the dog. If they fail to do so (ex: they violate local leash laws) and the dog bites or injures you, they’ll likely be liable for your damages.

Compensation recovery for Lafayette dog bite victims usually comes from the dog owner’s homeowner insurance, renters insurance, or personal injury claims.

In the state of Louisiana, you have one year from your injury to take legal action against the dog owner. With recovery from bites typically taking months, it’s important to contact a dog bite lawyer immediately after the accident. 

Lafayette Practice Areas

Common Types of Dog Bites

  • Lacerations – Deep cuts or gashes that may require sutures to close.
  • Abrasions – Scrapes or scratches that may not need stitches but may require cleaning and antibiotics.
  • Contusions– Bruises that may require cold compresses and ibuprofen to reduce swelling and pain.
  • Tendon or Ligament Damage – Injuries can cause loss of motion or mobility.
  • Infections – Bacteria in the dog’s mouth can cause an infection, which can spread and become serious.
  • Fractured or Broken Bones – Dog bites can cause broken bones that may require surgery and eventually physical therapy to repair.
  • Amputation or Loss of Limbs
  • Nerve Damage – Dog bites can damage nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and loss of function.
  • Head Trauma or Brain Injuries 
  • Psychological Injuries – Being bitten by a dog can cause fear, anxiety, mental anguish, and other psychological trauma.
  • Injuries to the Eyes, Ears & Face
  • Internal Organ Damage

Unfortunately, sometimes dog attacks can be fatal and lead to death. If this is the case, then a wrongful death case may be brought against the dog owners. 

Reasons An Owner Would NOT Be Held Liable

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Trespassing

Suppose the injured victim was trespassing on the dog owner’s property or committing a crime at the time of the incident. In that case, the victim may find it more difficult to go after the dog’s owner for their damages.

Provocation

Provocation is a common defense in dog bite claims. If an injury victim provoked a dog to bite, they could find it more difficult or impossible to win a civil claim against the dog’s owner. Some examples of actions that may be considered provocation include:

  • Hitting, kicking, or punching the dog
  • Throwing objects at the animal
  • Screaming or yelling at the dog
  • Acting aggressively toward the dog

What Should I Do After A Dog Bite In Lafayette?

  1. Take Pictures: Take a picture of the bite itself, the dog if you can, and the surrounding areas. 
  2. Get Medical Attention: Immediately get medical attention. Even if you think it’s a small, innocent bite, go check it out. That small bite can turn into a nasty infection if ignored. 
  3. Contact The Police or Animal Control: Let them document everything and make a report. Make sure you get a copy of that report and any other documents that were done in response to your incident. 
  4. Exchange Information: Make sure to exchange all information, with the owners of the dog. Get copies of their drivers license, obtain their insurance information and if you are out at a public place, get the vehicle information. 
  5. Speak To Any Witnesses: Only if you are able to do so, get witness contact information and statements.
  6. Avoid Making Statements: Avoid making statements about the specifics of the accident to anyone other than the investigation officer, especially with insurance companies, before consulting your attorney. Anything you say or post online may be used unfairly against you later, when liability and damages are being determined.
  7. Contact The Dog Bite Lawyer: If you or a loved one have been a victim of a dog attack, it’s wise to contact our law firm, which focuses their legal practice on personal injury. We have over 30 years practicing law for victims all throughout Lafayette and Louisiana.

Consult With A Lafayette Dog Bite Lawyer Today

For over 30 years, Craig and his team have helped thousands of personal injury victims pursue compensation for damages owed to them. We are dedicated to providing competent, compassionate legal support and giving you and your family the personalized attention you deserve. Our lawyers are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you recover maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. Give us a call today. Our conversations are always free, and you don’t pay anything unless we win your case!

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Craig A. Davis, APLC. A Personal Injury Law Firm Serving Louisiana

At Craig A. Davis, APLC, we serve  the following areas. Lafayette, Youngsville, Broussard, Scott, New Iberia, Abbeville, Breaux Bridge, Carencro, Duson, Crowley, Rayne, Maurice, Erath, Jennings, Lake Charles, Grand Coteau, Houma, Delcambre, Iota, Jeanerette, Meaux, Sulphur, Opelousas. 

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