I Was Bit by a Neighbor’s Dog. What Should I Do? 

Dogs are known for being friendly, loyal companions. But sometimes, they can become aggressive and bite. If you've been bitten by a neighbor's dog, you should know what rights you have in this situation and how to effectively tackle this situation. Slechter Law Firm Attorneys at Law is here to guide you through the process and make sure you get justice and compensation. 

Do This Immediately After a Dog Bite 

These actions are necessary for your well-being after a dog bite incident and to ensure that you do not inadvertently jeopardize your compensation claim. 

Get Medical Attention 

It should go without saying, but dog bites can cause serious injury and infections. Even if the bite seems minor, you should see your healthcare provider right away. They can clean and treat the wound properly, reducing the risk of infection and further complications. They can also document the injury, which works as evidence if you decide to pursue a legal claim. 

Document the Incident 

Documentation is critical in this situation. Take clear photographs of your injuries, the place where the incident occurred, and the culprit too, if possible. Collect contact information from witnesses, if any. Also, get a copy of the dog's vaccination records from the owner to verify whether the animal is up-to-date on its rabies shots.  All this information can be important evidence to support future legal claims. 

Report the Incident to the Authorities 

Report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement to create an official record of the bite and prevent the dog from biting others. Your report should include details such as the time, location, and description of the incident. Reporting the bite may prompt an investigation into whether the dog has a history of aggression, which could strengthen your claim. It can also initiate a mandatory quarantine period for the dog to monitor for signs of rabies and protect the community. 

List All Expenses 

Maintain a detailed record of all expenses incurred because of the dog bite. This includes medical bills, receipts for prescription medications, and documents that show the financial impact of the incident. If you need to miss work or make special accommodations due to your injury, document these as well. This list clearly demonstrates the economic impact of the dog bite and bolsters your claim. Keep all original receipts and invoices, as your attorney or insurance company may require them during the claims process.

Know Your Legal Rights

Understanding your legal rights is important when seeking justice and compensation for a dog bite incident in Kentucky. 

Dog Bite Laws 

In Kentucky, dog owners are strictly liable for any injuries caused by their pets. This means the dog's owner is responsible for the injury, regardless of whether the dog has shown aggression previously.  

Victims can pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. It is also worth noting that in Kentucky, the "one bite" rule does not apply, meaning the owner cannot claim ignorance of the dog's aggressive tendencies as a defense. 

Liability and Compensation 

In Kentucky, victims of dog bites do not need to prove the owner's negligence. However, obtaining fair compensation does require proper documentation and evidence, such as medical records, photographs, and witness statements.  

Compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. In extreme cases, where the owner or caretaker acted recklessly or intentionally, victims may also be eligible for punitive damages.  

Statute of Limitations 

Kentucky has a specific time frame within which you must file a lawsuit after being bitten by a dog. This is known as the statute of limitations. For personal injury claims, you typically have one year from the date of the injury to pursue legal action. Failure to file within this time frame can result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. Act promptly and consult with an experienced attorney to make sure you know what legal deadlines to meet. 

Defenses to Dog Bite Claims 

Dog owners in Kentucky can use certain defenses to avoid or limit their liability. One common defense is provocation; if the dog owner can prove that the victim provoked the dog, it might reduce or eliminate their responsibility. Another potential defense is trespassing; if the bite occurred while the victim was unlawfully on the dog owner's property, this might also limit liability. Being aware of these defenses can help you build a stronger case and anticipate potential challenges. 

Speak With a Louisville Dog Bite Lawyer 

Mr. and Mrs. Slechter are prominent trial lawyers in Kentucky, recognized for their outstanding legal skills and ethical conduct. They offer personalized legal representation, ensuring clients work directly with them. Their family-friendly approach guarantees each client receives the attention and dedication they need. If you have been in a pedestrian accident in Louisville, Kentucky, or Lexington, Slechter Law Firm Attorneys at Law is here to provide effective legal support.