Dog Attack & Bite Lawyer
Offices in Flowood, Mendenhall, Prentiss, and Magee, Mississippi.
If you or a family member has been attacked by a dog, it's essential to respond quickly. Even if the initial bite injuries don't seem serious, there's a genuine infection risk if the dog carries any diseases. Discover what action to take after a dog attack so you can protect your health and get fair compensation for any medical costs you incur.
What to Do After a Dog Attack
After a dog attack, try to do the following:
Identify the dog owner and get their name and address. Request proof of rabies vaccination.
Call 911 or head to the emergency room depending on the injury's severity.
Even if the bite seems minor, seek immediate medical attention.
Take photographs of the bite wound and any bruises or damaged clothing.
Gather information about the dog, such as its license details, whether it is designated a dangerous breed, and whether it has bitten anyone previously.
Contact a dog bite attorney as soon as possible.
Keep a journal of your thoughts and experiences during the healing process.
If the dog owner can't prove that their pet has up-to-date rabies vaccinations, you must undergo a series of shots as a preventative measure. Rabies is a life-threatening condition, and the vaccine can cost thousands of dollars, so bite victims should speak to an attorney to get compensation for the cost of this vital medical treatment.
How to Know if You Have a Dog Bite Claim
For a dog bite case to be considered, you must prove the dog owner had a duty of care to the victim, which was breached through negligence. For example, if a homeowner's dog has bitten someone in the past, and the homeowner made no attempt to inform a guest of this or keep their dog away from visitors, this could show negligence that directly resulted in someone being injured. Dog bites can sometimes fall under criminal law, although this would require the owner to exhibit extreme negligence or provoke dangerous behavior.
What You Need to Know About Dog Bite Laws in Mississippi
While some states have laws that clearly describe the circumstances under which a dog owner would be liable for any harm or injury caused by their pet, Mississippi doesn't have such a statute. If you're the victim of a dog bite and wish to make a personal injury claim, you must prove the dog owner was negligent or the owner was aware the dog had a propensity to attack people. This is known as the "one-bite rule." If a dog has never bitten someone, the owner has a reasonable defense that they didn't expect their pet to do so, especially if it has shown no other signs of aggressive behavior.
In Mississippi, dog bite cases often fall under premises liability. For example, if a dog bites you or your child while you're visiting someone's house, the property owner may be liable for damages if you can prove the owner didn't take reasonable steps to protect you from the dog.
In contrast, if you're in a public park, and a dog that's been let off its leash bites you, it may be possible to prove negligence because the dog should have been controlled.
Why Hire a Lawyer to Handle Your Dog Bite Claim?
The law surrounding dog bites can be confusing, and a case can take a long time to work through the courts. Proper legal support throughout the case is essential to have the best chance at getting fair compensation for a dog bite.
Why Choose The Stubbs Law Firm?
The Stubbs Law Firm represents personal injury cases in Mississippi. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog and has suffered serious injury, our attorneys can help you get the compensation you're entitled to and ensure your legal expenses are covered. We handle the complexities of the case while you focus on recovery. Contact us today to request a consultation.
Contact The Stubbs Law Firm Today.
To start this process, schedule a consultation at one of our offices by calling 1-844-STUBBSLAW (844-788-2275). Insurance companies look to fight your claim so let us advocate on your behalf.
