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BEST Dog Bite Lawyers Near You in Louisiana

Dog bite accidents pose a significant concern for our communities and society at large, and Louisiana is no exception. Each year, a considerable number of individuals in the state experience dog bite accidents and require the help of a lawyer for dog attacks. Nationwide, according to the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC), more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs annually, with over 800,000 requiring medical attention as a result.

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Dog Bite Lawyers Near You

It is crucial to emphasize that all dogs are inherently good, but the responsibility lies with owners who fail to understand their dogs’ behavior and take proactive measures to prevent such incidents. Irresponsible ownership places dogs in situations where bites may occur, but it is important to note that the fault does not lie with the dog itself. The unpredictable nature of irresponsible dog ownership means that anyone can find themselves in a situation with any type of dog that may lead to an attack. Rather than solely focusing on punishing the dog, it is vital to acknowledge that individuals who have suffered injuries or damages in a dog attack have the right to pursue a claim with a dog injury lawyer against the dog’s owner for compensation for any injuries or damages sustained in the incident.

When a dog bite accident occurs in Louisiana, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a local Louisiana dog bite lawyer near you to ensure that the owner is held accountable for their negligence. Whether it is their failure to control their dog or placing their dog in a situation that led to the dog bite accident, responsible parties must be held liable for the resulting injuries. At The Lavis Law Firm, we understand the severity of dog bite injuries, and our team of experienced dog bite injury lawyers near you are dedicated to providing the necessary support and guidance. If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog bite injury, our lawyers for dog attacks are ready to assist you in seeking the compensation you deserve.

Dog Bite Laws in Louisiana That You Need To Know

Dog Bite InjuryAs a dog bite lawyer will explain, like other states, Louisiana has specific dog bite laws that must be adhered to when a dog bite accident or attack takes place. It is essential to be aware of these dog bite laws in order to understand your rights and responsibilities in such situations. Here are some of the most important dog bite laws in Louisiana to keep in mind:

One Bite Rule

In Louisiana, the “one-bite rule” serves as a legal principle for dog bite cases, accompanied by additional requirements to establish owner liability for damages. According to this rule, it is necessary for the owner to have either known or reasonably should have known about their dog’s dangerous tendencies towards people, which may include aggressive behaviors like growling or striking. Furthermore, it must be demonstrated that the injury or damage could have been prevented if the owner had taken reasonable precautions, such as adequately containing the dog. The owner’s failure to exercise sufficient care in preventing injury is a crucial consideration.

It is important to emphasize that the injured person or others should not have provoked the animal. It is noteworthy that Louisiana’s law extends beyond dog bites and encompasses other injuries caused by animals. For instance, if a person is injured by a horse, it would fall under the provisions of this statute.

Strict Liability

Louisiana follows a strict liability approach for dog bites, as outlined in CC §2321. This means that the owner is held legally responsible for the pet’s aggressive actions. However, strict liability is contingent upon the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s previous aggressive behavior or their failure to exercise reasonable care, resulting in an awareness of the dog’s potential to cause harm.

To pursue a claim, the victim must demonstrate that the owner did not take adequate precautions to prevent the attack and that the injuries could have been avoided if the dog had been properly contained, such as being kept in a fenced area or on a leash. Dogs known for their aggressive tendencies are often categorized as “dangerous dogs,” and specific regulations govern their handling and confinement. Louisiana’s dog bite laws include a statute that specifically defines a “dangerous dog,” which holds relevance in dog bite cases. RS §14:102.14 establishes specific rules for owning a dangerous dog. It is possible to argue that the dog’s owner disregarded these rules despite being aware of the dog’s capacity to cause harm to a bite victim.

Dog Bite Law Exceptions

In Louisiana, there are exceptions that may limit the pursuit of compensation for dog bite injuries. If the victim provoked the dog by engaging in teasing or abusive behavior that resulted in the attack, the dog owner or caretaker may not be held liable for damages. Additionally, dog owners generally cannot be held liable when their dogs bite trespassers on their property unless the individual entering the property has a specific duty to do so.

Furthermore, liability does not apply in cases where the dog involved in the bite is a police canine unit and the bite occurred while the dog was obeying the officer’s commands. As long as the police dog meets the required certification and training standards, no liability will be imposed. It is important to note that there are limitations on filing lawsuits for dog bite injuries, and if a lawsuit is initiated outside the designated timeframe, otherwise known as the statute of limitations, the victim may not be able to recover compensation. It is crucial to adhere to the specified limitations period when pursuing legal action for dog bite injuries.

Common Dog Bite Accident Injuries In Louisiana

Dog Attack Attorney

Every dog bite injury is unique, as the severity and impact can vary greatly from case to case. However, there are common types of dog bite injuries that span from minor scratches to more severe wounds that may require extensive dog bite treatments including medical treatment and reconstructive surgery. Here are the most common dog bite injuries in Louisiana.

  • Deep Lacerations – A dog bite has the potential to cause deep lacerations due to the sharpness of a dog’s teeth and the force applied during the bite. The combination of tearing and crushing actions can result in significant tissue damage, leading to deep and jagged wounds.
  • Broken Bones – The powerful jaws of a dog can cause broken or crushed bones when they deliver a forceful bite. The sharpness of their teeth and the intensity of the impact can lead to fractures or crushing injuries, especially if the bite targets areas with delicate bones like the hands, wrists, or legs.
  • Scarring & Disfigurement – A dog bite can result in scarring or disfigurement due to the force of the bite and the tearing or laceration of the skin and underlying tissues. The severity and location of the bite, as well as the victim’s individual healing process, can contribute to the potential for permanent scarring or lasting changes in appearance.
  • Nerve Damage – A dog bite has the potential to cause nerve damage due to the sharp teeth and forceful bite pressure exerted by the dog. The trauma from the bite can injure or compress nerves, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of sensation in the affected area.
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder – A dog bite can have a profound psychological impact, potentially leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The traumatic experience of being attacked by a dog can result in persistent symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and avoidance behaviors.
It is important that if you have sustained any of these injuries, you contact an experienced lawyer for dog attacks to receive compensation for your injuries. 

Dog Bite Accident Damages That Can Be Claimed

In cases of dog bite accidents, victims can seek compensation with the help of a dog bite injury lawyer for various damages to address their losses. Some of the damages that can be claimed include:

  • Medical Treatment – Medical expenses play a significant role, covering doctor visits, hospital services, medication, physical therapy, and even psychological treatment if necessary. If the injury worsens a pre-existing medical condition, the responsible party may be held accountable for additional medical costs incurred.
  • Physical & Emotional Pain – Dog bites can cause both physical and emotional pain, resulting in suffering and distress. Victims may experience fear of dogs, anxiety, shock, sleeplessness, depression, and even develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Seeking compensation for pain and suffering is possible, encompassing the emotional distress caused by the attack and any ongoing psychological symptoms.
  • Lost Income – Lost income is another compensable category. Victims who need time off work for medical diagnosis, treatment, or recovery are entitled to reimbursement for their lost income during that period. Moreover, if the injury impairs their future earning capacity, they should be compensated accordingly.
  • Property Damage – In addition to personal damages, property damage resulting from the incident, such as broken eyeglasses or a damaged motorcycle, can be included in the claim. In cases where the owner’s conduct is particularly outrageous or reckless, punitive damages may be awarded to financially punish them and serve as a deterrent against similar behavior in the future.

It is important to note that punitive damages may not be available when a victim sues under a state’s “strict liability” dog-bite statute, as these laws hold dog owners liable for bites irrespective of the animal’s history or the owner’s negligence.

Check Out What Clients Are Saying About Our Dog Bite Injury Lawyers Near You in Louisiana

Mr. Lavis and his staff are the most professional legal staff that I have done business with. I totally trust them and they make communication easy. He offers the best advice and works extremely hard to obtain the best possible resolution on your behalf. Catrice Robertson on Google ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Why Should You Hire Lavis Law Firm?

If you have been involved in a dog bite accident, contact the personal injury lawyers at Lavis Law Firm by calling 866-558-9151 or submit your online form

Having a dog attack lawyer near you on your side after your personal injury accident can be crucial in ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. Taking advantage of our free consultation allows you to speak with one of our dog bite attorneys regarding your claim and our advice on how to handle your case. Contact us today to learn more about receiving a free case evaluation to start on the path toward filing a claim for the damages owed to you. We also offer free initial video consultations over Zoom, Skype, or Google Meets. Please keep in mind that you may be facing important legal deadlines.

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