If You Or A Loved One Has Been Bitten By A Dog In Alabama

More Americans than ever consider their furry friends part of the family, but dog bites and other types of animal attacks can have grave, even life-threatening consequences. Our Alabama personal injury attorneys at Moore Law Firm are well-versed in the complexities of Alabama law regarding dog bites and can help you hold a dog owner responsible if you or a loved one has been injured.

Dog Bite Liability

Under Alabama Code Title 3. Animals § 3-7A-9, a dog owner can be held liable for any injury that occurs when another person is bitten on the dog owner’s property or if the dog chases the victim off the dog owner’s property. Although a victim can sue under the dog-bite statutes, he or she also can recover compensation under common law if it is proven that the dog’s owner was negligent such as being aware of the dog having a prior bite or if the dog is considered an inherently dangerous breed (i.e. pitbull). Liability for dog bites can vary depending on the dog’s history, the age of the victim, and the specific location and jurisdiction in which the attack occurred. To navigate the multifaceted legal system, seeking the counsel of a local Alabama personal injury attorney is essential. A personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and work to ensure you get full compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Compensation For Injuries Sustained From Dog Bites

A dog bite or attack can cause severe, life-changing injuries that may require costly surgeries, physical therapy and additional ongoing medical treatment, especially when the victim is a child.

Some of the most common dog-bite injuries include:

• Puncture wounds
• Lacerations and abrasions
• Severe bruising and swelling
• Muscle sprains and strains
• Broken, fractured or crushed bones
• Permanent scarring
• Nerve damage
• Facial disfigurement
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Diseases and infections such as rabies and cellulitis
• Emotional trauma, which may include PTSD, nightmares, depression and anxiety

If a dog has displayed vicious or dangerous behavior in the past or the attack caused a death, animal-attack victims or their families may be entitled to punitive damages, which are imposed to “punish” the defendant and act as a deterrent for future wrongful conduct.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite or attack, contact our Alabama personal injury attorneys at Moore Law Firm to schedule a consultation today.