Nashville Dog Bite Lawyer

Discuss Dog Bite Law and Your Potential Case With Our Nashville Dog Bite Attorney

Being the victim of a dog attack can be a traumatizing ordeal that leaves many emotional and physical scars. If you or a loved one has been attacked or bitten by a dog in the Nashville area, you must first seek medical attention. The second step is to seek the legal counsel of a Nashville dog bite lawyer as you may be eligible to recover compensation for the following damages:

• Medical bills, including emergency care
• Lost wages
• Physical therapy
• Any surgical procedures
• Medication
• Emotional trauma
• Benefits for wrongful death

Injured by a dog bite? Contact us today at (615) 866-3938 for a free consultation and get the legal help you deserve.

​How Our Nashville Dog Bite Lawyer Helps Clients in Tennessee

As an experienced attorney and man of strong faith, Stanley A. Davis aims to provide the guidance dog bite victims and their families need. The Law Office of Stanley A. Davis has worked with thousands of clients in the Nashville area. Providing legal services to individuals injured by dog attacks and bites, our law firm has helped our clients seek the compensation needed to recover from their injuries.

Our attorney takes great care to ensure our clients can focus on recovering from their dog bite injuries while he builds their case and navigates the legal process for them. Our 5-star reviews, client testimonials, verdicts and settlements speak for our proven record of success.

No Fee Unless We Win Your Dog Bite Case

When you work with the Law Office of Stanley A. Davis, there are no fees unless we win your dog bite case. It is our firm’s goal to do everything we can to aid you during your recovery. We can answer questions about your rights and the ability to file a claim.

Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries

According to a recent study, more than 330,000 emergency department visits for dog bites every year. Dog bite cases, even bites or attacks from small or medium-sized dogs, can be very serious. Unfortunately, children who are victims of dog attacks almost always receive facial injuries that may require reconstructive surgery. Other injuries resulting from dog attacks include:

• Tissue infections
• Open wounds
• Fractured upper limbs
• Rabies
• Tetanus
• Infective arthritis
• Pasteurella infections
• MRSA Staph infections
• Crush injuries
• Death
• Bone or marrow inflammation due to infection
• Blood poisoning caused by bacteria (Capnocytophaga) in the canine’s mouth

Most victims of dog attacks will have extensive scarring, especially on the face. The face is one of the most frequent targets of dog attacks. If you or your loved one has suffered a dog attack, whether it seems minor or extensive, contact our experienced Nashville dog bite lawyer for legal help today.

What Is the Dog Bite Law in Tennessee?

In recent years, Tennessee has changed its views on dog owner responsibility. Specifically, Tennessee passed a law, the Dianna Acklen Act of 2007, which holds all owners accountable for the actions of their pets regardless of whether they were or were not aware of previous attacks. This statute takes the place of the “first-bite” rule. Under the first-bite rule, the dog owner was not responsible for a dog attack or bite provided there were no prior instances.

Tennessee Law on Injury Caused By Dogs

Tennessee dog bite law undercode § 44-8-413 holds all dog owners under strict liability for injuries and attacks that happen if a dog is not under “reasonable control.” A company can also be held responsible when the dog is under their custody and control regardless if there is a private owner.

Reasonable control means the dog was loose or otherwise not contained. If a dog attack occurs outside of a home or business to a random victim on the street because the dog was “running at large,” the homeowner or business entity that had reasonable control of the dog during the time of the incident would also be held liable for damages. However, the law includes a number of exceptions, including:

• The dog is a military or police dog and the injury occurred during the course of the dog’s official duties;
• The person injured in the attack trespassed on private, nonresidential property belonging to the dog owner;
• The injury occurred while the dog was protecting the dog’s owner and other innocent individuals from the injured person;
• The injury occurred while the dog locked or confined in a crate, kennel or other enclosure; or
• The dog attack and injury occurred as a result of the injured individual disturbing, harassing, or provoking the dog in another manner.

Additionally, Tennessee is the only state that has a residential exclusion in the dog bite liability. This means guests in the owner’s home who are bitten by the residing dog, even if it is a particularly vicious attack, may not always be eligible for compensation.

Even if the dog has exhibited prior dangerous behavior and you believe the owner is strictly liable for your dog bite injuries, you may still find it difficult to prove fault or obtain the compensation you need. Most dog owners will try to deny what happened, and many homeowners, renters or other insurance policies may attempt to limit the damages for injuries and other losses caused by dog attacks. Do not risk your recovery. Speak to our Nashville dog bite lawyer immediately. 

Steps to Take Immediately After a Dog Bite Incident

If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, taking the right steps immediately can make a big difference in your recovery and your ability to pursue a successful legal claim.

How to Document a Dog Bite Injury

• Take Photos: Immediately take clear, detailed photos of the bite and surrounding areas. Capture the severity and location of the wound.
• Write Notes: Record the time, place, and circumstances surrounding the bite. Include details like the dog’s behavior, any warning signs, and the owner’s reaction.
• Collect Witness Information: If there were any witnesses to the incident, write down their names and contact information. They could play an important role in your case.

Why Getting Medical Treatment Is Essential Right Away

• Prevent Infection: Dog bites can cause infections, including rabies and tetanus. Prompt medical care can help avoid serious complications.
• Official Medical Records: Getting treatment right away creates an official medical record of the injury, which will be crucial for your case. It can prove the extent of your injuries and link them directly to the dog bite.

The Role of Insurance Companies in Dog Bite Claims

Insurance companies play a significant role in dog bite claims, but it’s important to know how they may try to affect your case.

How Insurance Policies May Cover Dog Bite Injuries

• Homeowners Insurance: Many homeowners’ insurance policies cover dog bite incidents. The coverage often includes medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Pet Liability Insurance: Some dog owners have pet liability coverage that helps cover expenses from attacks. This type of insurance is specifically designed for injuries caused by dogs.

Common Insurance Tactics to Reduce Compensation

• Downplaying the Injury: Insurance companies may try to argue that the injury was less severe than claimed.
• Denying Liability: Insurers may argue the dog owner wasn’t negligent or that the victim provoked the dog.
• Offering Low Settlements: They might offer a quick, low settlement to avoid a larger payout. It’s important not to accept an offer without consulting a lawyer.

How to Prove Negligence in a Dog Bite Case

In a dog bite case, proving negligence is essential to securing compensation for your injuries. Here's how to strengthen your case:

Gathering Evidence to Support Your Claim

• Medical Records: Keep detailed records of your medical treatments, including doctor visits, prescriptions, and any physical therapy required.
• Witness Statements: Statements from anyone who saw the incident can provide additional support. Witnesses can confirm the dog’s behavior and the owner’s actions.
• Veterinary Records: If the dog has a history of aggression, vet records or previous complaints can show that the owner was aware of the dog’s dangerous behavior.

Key Factors in Proving the Dog Owner’s Liability

• Owner’s Knowledge of Dog’s Behavior: Proving that the owner knew the dog was dangerous can establish liability. This could be through past incidents, breed, or behavior history.
• Lack of Control: Proving the dog was not under control at the time of the attack—such as being off a leash or unleashed in public—can strengthen your case.

By following these steps, documenting everything thoroughly, and seeking legal advice, you can increase your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do if the dog owner refuses to give me their information?

• If the dog owner refuses to provide their information, try to gather details from any witnesses present. Take note of the dog’s breed, appearance, and any identifiable features. Contact local authorities to file a report, which can help identify the dog owner.

Can I file a dog bite claim if the injury was caused by a stray dog?

• Yes, you can still file a claim if the injury was caused by a stray dog, though it may be more difficult. In this case, local animal control may be involved in identifying the dog. However, the process may be more complex without a known owner.

Will my dog bite claim cover emotional trauma?

• Yes, in some cases, you may be able to seek compensation for emotional trauma, such as anxiety, PTSD, or fear of dogs, which can result from a dog attack. This would typically be part of your pain and suffering damages.

What if the dog owner claims that I provoked the dog?

If the dog owner claims you provoked the dog, it’s important to have evidence to support your side of the story. Witnesses, photos, and any medical records can help disprove that you instigated the attack, strengthening your case.

How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in Tennessee?

• In Tennessee, you typically have one year from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit. However, it’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure all necessary evidence is gathered and deadlines are met.

Can a dog’s breed affect my case?

• While the breed of the dog can provide context for its behavior, Tennessee law holds dog owners responsible for injuries regardless of the dog’s breed. However, certain breeds may have a history of aggression that could be used to support your claim.

Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite claim?

• While it’s possible to handle a dog bite claim on your own, having a lawyer can help ensure that you receive fair compensation. Lawyers are skilled in dealing with insurance companies and navigating the complexities of dog bite laws.

Contact Our Experienced Nashville Dog Bite Lawyer Today

Tennessee law for dog bite cases can be difficult to navigate alone. This is especially true given the overwhelming circumstances of suffering from a dog bite, or having a loved one suffer a devastating dog bite. Call our experienced personal injury lawyer in Nashville to help you during this difficult time. Our firm serves clients across central Tennessee. We have a number of past significant results for clients in Brentwood, Hendersonville, Lebanon, Smyrna and other nearby cities.

We take most personal injury cases on a contingency basis, which means you pay nothing upfront and only owe attorney fees if our firm successfully gains compensation for your case. Our compassionate law firm will fight to make sure you receive the dog bite compensation you deserve.

Don’t wait to get the compensation you deserve. Contact us now at (615) 866-3938 and let our team fight for your rights.