St. Mary Parish Dog Bite Lawyer
A dog attack can result in both severe physical and psychological harm, as well as a pile of medical bills and the inability to immediately return to work. This can leave an individual feeling overwhelmed, especially if they feel as though they have no other options.
However, depending on the circumstances of an attack, a negligent pet owner may be considered legally liable for their dog’s actions. Therefore, you may benefit from reaching out to a St. Mary Parish dog bite lawyer if you sustained injuries in a canine attack. A skilled personal injury attorney can answer your questions and help you explore your legal options for pursuing compensation in a civil lawsuit.
Why May a Dog Attack Someone?
There may be various factors that lead to a dog attacking or biting someone. A dog may attack another person when they are:
- Reacting to a stressful situation
- Scared or threatened
- Protecting themselves
- Startled
- Nipping or biting while playing
- Unneutered or not spayed
These behaviors may result from an owner’s failure to take the necessary steps that ensure that their pet is trained and socialized properly. An experienced St. Mary Parish attorney can help someone bitten by a dog determine if an owner neglected their duties to properly restrain or train their dog in order to demonstrate fault for a claim.
What are Recoverable Damages?
As a St. Mary Parish attorney can further explain, an injured individual may be able to recover numerous costs associated with a dog bite. These may include any monetary losses from medical care and treatment for any infections as a result of a bite.
A court also may award damages based on loss of earning potential, wages lost, travel and legal expenses, or costs of physical or emotional pain. Sometimes, monetary compensation also may include loss experienced by a family member.
The Statute of Limitations for Pursuing a Claim
Individuals suffering from injuries should be aware of the time limit that exists for pursuing a civil lawsuit. Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 3492, the statute of limitations places a one-year time limit from the date of the injury where an individual can pursue a claim for compensation. Once this deadline passes, the court may dismiss the case, and an injured party may no longer be able to recover damages. Therefore, anyone looking to file a dog bite claim should contact a St. Mary Parish lawyer as soon as possible.
Retain a St. Mary Parish Dog Bite Attorney
After being attacked by another person’s pet, you may be traumatized and unsure if you have any legal options to recover compensation. When a pet owner neglects to protect others from their dog, anyone injured may have a right to pursue compensation.
To this end, a St. Mary Parish dog bite lawyer can offer you legal assistance. An experienced attorney can gather sufficient evidence, calculate the full extent of your losses, and represent you in a civil claim. To begin working on your case, schedule an initial consultation today.