Baton Rouge Dog Bite Lawyer

Securing Justice for Dog Bite Victims

All dog owners are expected to maintain control of their pets. Unfortunately, when dog owners let their dogs roam freely or don’t contain them, innocent victims can be hurt. Dog attacks can lead to extensive injuries, costing you thousands in medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

If you’ve been injured in a dog bite attack, our legal team is here to help. We can hold the dog owner liable for your injuries to ensure you get justice and recover compensation.

At Walter R. Krousel Jr. & Associates, APLC, we understand the physical and emotional trauma that can result from a dog bite. Our dedicated team of dog bite lawyers is committed to helping victims in Baton Rouge secure the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog, don’t hesitate to contact us at (225) 263-6194 for a free case evaluation.

What Kind of Injuries Do Dog Bite Victims Suffer?

Dog bite attacks can be severe. Depending on the type of dog that bit you and how long the attack lasted, you could be facing long-term injuries with permanent impacts on your life. Seeking medical attention after a dog attack is essential, as even small injuries can lead to life-threatening ailments.

The injuries caused by dog bites often include:

Scarring and Disfigurement

A dog’s sharp teeth bite deep, often leading to extensive scar tissue. Victims who are bitten on the face can experience permanent disfigurement that may require surgery. Children are more prone to facial disfigurement during dog attacks because of their short stature.

Infections

A dog’s mouth contains many types of bacteria, all of which can cause infection. If a dog pierces your skin with its teeth, there is a very high chance the wound will become infected. If left untreated, an infection can be fatal.

PTSD

Experiencing a dog bite attack can be traumatizing. Many dog bite victims develop mental issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The effects of PTSD can cause daily disruptions in your life and may require professional therapy.

What Can a Dog Bite Lawyer in Baton Rouge Do for You?

A dog bite lawyer can guide you through the complex process of filing a dog bite claim. They can help you understand your legal rights and work tirelessly to ensure that the at-fault party is held accountable. Whether it’s dealing with the dog owner’s insurance company or navigating the intricacies of litigation, our legal team is here to support you every step of the way.

As your legal team, we will do the following:

Investigate Your Case

All dog bite injury cases are different. When you work with us, we’ll take the time to investigate the details of your case so we can easily assign liability and prove negligence.

Talk to Witnesses

Witness testimonies can be crucial in personal injury claims. If anyone saw the attack, we can take their statement and use it to support your claim.

Gather Evidence

Evidence like photos of the dog, medical records, and videos of the attack can all be used to secure compensation. Our team will gather evidence on your behalf so you can focus on your physical recovery.

Negotiate With the Liable Party

The dog owner’s insurance company will likely pay for your damages. However, they may not offer you the compensation you deserve. We can negotiate with the owner’s insurance company to ensure you get the payment you need.

Address Your Concerns

Above all, we are here to answer your questions and address your concerns throughout the entire process.

What Constitutes a Dog Bite Case?

A dog bite case arises when a person is bitten or attacked by a dog, resulting in physical injuries or emotional distress. The severity of the injury, the dog’s history, and the circumstances surrounding the incident all play a role in determining the viability of a dog bite lawsuit.

Understanding Owner Liability

In many cases, the dog owner is held responsible for the actions of their pet. However, proving liability can be complex. Factors such as the dog’s history of vicious propensity, whether the owner was negligent, and the location of the attack can all influence the outcome of a dog bite case.

Role of the Landlord or Property Owner

In some instances, a landlord or property owner may also be held accountable if the attack occurred on their property. If they were aware of the dangerous dog and failed to take appropriate measures, they could be deemed negligent.

What Compensation Can You Expect?

Victims of dog bites are entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible costs such as medical expenses, lost wages, and any necessary surgery. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other intangible impacts of the injury.

During your case, you may be able to request compensation for the following:

Medical expenses, both past and future
Scarring and disfigurement
Lost wages
Loss of future income (if you can no longer perform your normal job duties)
Loss of enjoyment of life
Emotional pain
Mental anguish
Pain and suffering
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

All dog bite injury claims are different, which means your compensation may be, too. Our team can investigate your case to determine the damages you can request for full and fair compensation

Dealing with Insurance Companies

In most cases, renter’s insurance and homeowner’s insurance contain coverage for dog attacks. Negotiating with the dog owner’s insurance company can be a daunting task. They may attempt to minimize your claim or deny it altogether. Our experienced dog bite lawyers can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the settlement you deserve.

Comprehensive Support in Dog Bite Incidents

Dog bites can lead to serious injuries, including puncture wounds, infection, and sometimes even more grave consequences. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent infections such as rabies or tetanus. A victim may face a long road to recovery, necessitating surgery or rehabilitation. It is here that the role of a personal injury lawyer becomes indispensable.

Legal Rights and the “One Bite” Rule

Understanding your legal rights in the event of a dog bite is essential. Some jurisdictions adhere to the “one bite” rule, which might protect an owner if the dog has never shown aggression before. However, negligence on the part of the owner, such as failure to secure the animal in a kennel or on a leash, can override this defense. An experienced dog bite attorney can navigate these legal nuances to build a strong legal claim on your behalf.

Negligence and Animal Control Laws

Negligence plays a critical role in dog bite cases. If an owner knowingly keeps a dangerous animal and fails to take reasonable measures to protect others, they can be held liable for any resulting injuries. Animal control regulations are in place to prevent such incidents, but when they are not followed, the consequences can be dire. Reporting the incident to animal control and the police, especially in cases involving a police dog or other animals not typically kept as pets, is a vital step in documenting the event for your injury claim.

Protecting Children and the Vulnerable

Children are particularly at risk for dog bite injuries due to their small size and lack of understanding of the danger pets can pose. The law often provides additional protections for child victims, recognizing their vulnerability. A legal claim involving a child victim of a dog bite takes into consideration the future impact of the injury on the child’s life, including potential scarring and trauma.

Suing for Compensation

Suing for compensation after a dog bite involves more than just proving the bite occurred. It requires demonstrating the extent of the injuries, the impact on the victim’s life, and the negligence of the dog’s owner. A personal injury lawyer specializing in dog bites can help victims navigate the process, from filing the injury claim to representing them in court if necessary.

Why Choose Walter R. Krousel Jr. & Associates, APLC?

Our law firm is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation for dog bite victims. We understand the physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial burden that a dog bite can cause. Our legal team is committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

Ready to Discuss Your Baton Rouge Dog Bite Case?

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you contact a dog bite attorney, the better your chances of securing a favorable outcome. At Walter R. Krousel Jr. & Associates, APLC, we offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Contact us today at (225) 263-6194 to schedule your appointment.