Dog Bite Lawyer
Bowling Green, KY

Hire a Kentucky dog bite lawyer who can get it done.

A dog attack in Bowling Green, KY, can result in painful injuries that may require costly medical treatment and result in permanent scarring or disfigurement. They can also lead to psychological trauma and a fear of dogs. At Hughes & Coleman Injury Lawyers, our dedicated team of dog bite lawyers in Bowling Green is committed to helping injured victims by seeking financial compensation from negligent dog owners and other liable parties.

We are here to help you after a dog attack in Bowling Green. All you need to do is call. Our legal team is available 24/7, and we offer a free consultation so that you can understand your legal rights.

CALL NOW

800-800-4600

Get it done.

  • Get It Done.

    FREE CASE EVALUATION

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

How can a Bowling Green dog bite lawyer help?

Dog bites are a serious matter, and if you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, seeking the assistance of a dog bite lawyer can provide valuable help, especially if you’ve experienced serious injuries. An experienced dog bite attorney has comprehensive knowledge of Kentucky’s dog bite laws and can guide you through the process of obtaining compensation for your injuries.

An attorney can help you in many ways during a dog bite injury claim, including:

  • Help you understand your legal options: A lawyer will evaluate the circumstances surrounding the dog bite, including the extent of the injuries, the liability of the dog owner or responsible parties, and any applicable laws and regulations. They will determine the strength of the case and help you understand the available legal options.
  • Gathering evidence and investigating: A crucial aspect of building a strong case is gathering evidence. The lawyer will investigate the dog bite incident, collect medical records, obtain witness statements, gather photographs or videos of the injuries and the scene, and secure any other evidence that supports your claim.
  • Establishing liability and identifying who is at fault: One of the primary tasks of a dog bite lawyer is to establish liability. They will examine the laws in Bowling Green and Kentucky, identify the responsible parties (such as the dog’s owner, property owners, or other parties), and gather evidence to prove their negligence or liability in the dog bite case.
  • Negotiation and settlement: In many cases, a dog bite lawyer will negotiate with insurance companies or the responsible parties to reach a fair settlement. They will use their legal experience to advocate for your rights to ensure that you receive the most compensation possible for your injuries, medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.
  • If necessary, take your case to trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, the lawyer will prepare the case for litigation and represent the victim in court. They will file the necessary legal documents, present the evidence, question witnesses, and provide strong legal advocacy to seek a favorable verdict on behalf of the victim.
  • Legal advice and guidance: A dog bite lawyer provides legal advice and guidance throughout the entire process. They explain the legal rights and options available to you, answer questions, address concerns, and provide support and reassurance during what can be a challenging and stressful time.

 

When you have a dog bite attorney in Bowling Green by your side, you can have peace of mind knowing that they will ensure you have all the necessary support during the claims process, including medical care from top doctors and addressing any legal questions you may have.

By entrusting the legal aspects of your claim to Hughes & Coleman, you can take the time to rest, recover, and concentrate on your future.

Dog Bite Statute of-Limitations Kentucky

How long do you have to file a dog bite injury claim in Kentucky?

According to Kentucky Revised Statutes section 413.140, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite injury claim is generally one year. This means that you have one year from the date of the dog bite incident to initiate legal action by filing a lawsuit. It is important to note that failing to file a claim within the specified timeframe may result in the court dismissing your case, and you may lose the opportunity to seek compensation for your injuries.

When to hire a lawyer for dog bite

When should you hire a Bowling Green dog bite injury lawyer?

Dog bite victims should hire an experienced dog bite lawyer as soon as possible. Even though victims have a year to file a lawsuit, the critical pieces of building a strong personal injury case happen immediately following the incident, such as identifying the dog owner, documenting your injuries, interviewing witnesses, obtaining medical records, and other items that will support your claim.

If you wait to hire an attorney, you may be left with a challenging dog bite claim or placed in a situation where a claim is no longer an option.

Damages dog bite victims can recover in a dog bite injury case

In Kentucky, a dog bite victim may be entitled to several types of damages, including:

  • Medical Expenses: The victim can seek compensation for the costs of medical treatment related to the dog bite, including hospital bills, medication, surgeries, and rehabilitation. This can also include future medical bills that may come as a result of ongoing medical treatment.
  • Pain and Suffering: Damages may be awarded for the physical pain and emotional pain endured as a result of the dog bite. This can include both immediate pain and long-term suffering, such as scarring or disfigurement.
  • Lost Wages: If the dog bite causes the victim to miss work, they may be able to recover income lost as a result of the attack. This can include both past and future lost earnings if the injuries have a lasting impact on the victim’s ability to work.
  • Property Damage: If the dog bite resulted in damage to the victim’s personal property, such as torn clothing or broken glasses, they may be entitled to compensation for those losses. In Kentucky if your dog was bitten by another dog, you can also sue for property damage. Although we all don’t necessarily feel this way, in a Kentucky dog bite lawsuit, dogs are viewed as property in the courts.
  • Punitive Damages: In certain cases, where the dog owner’s behavior was particularly egregious or reckless, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages aim to punish the dog owner and deter similar conduct in the future.

 

To pursue a claim for damages, it is generally advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney who is knowledgeable about Kentucky’s laws regarding dog bites. They can assess the specific circumstances of the case and provide guidance on the available legal options.

Kentucky dog bite law

Kentucky’s approach to dog bite laws differs from many other states. Instead of a single comprehensive dog bite law, Kentucky relies on multiple statutes that address different scenarios involving dog bites.

Unlike more than a dozen states that follow a “one-bite rule,” where dog owners may avoid liability if their dog had not previously exhibited aggressive behavior, Kentucky does not adhere to this principle. In Kentucky, the owner can be held responsible for a dog bite regardless of whether the dog has shown prior aggressive tendencies or not.

Strict Liability

Kentucky law regarding dog bites follows a “strict liability” rule. This means that the dog owner can be held responsible for any injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether they took reasonable precautions to prevent the bite. This means that, unlike some other states, it is unnecessary to prove the owner’s negligence in order to seek compensation for a dog bite injury in Kentucky.

Pure Comparative Negligence

In Kentucky, the pure comparative negligence law governs dog bite cases. According to this law, the damages that a dog owner must pay are proportionately reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned to the injured person. In other words, if the injured person is found partially at fault for the incident, the damages awarded to them will be reduced by the percentage of their assigned fault.

Experienced dog bite attorneys can help establish the percentage of fault for dog bite victims to ensure they receive the most money possible for their injuries, which in some cases, can equate to thousands of dollars.

how much is a dog bite lawsuit worth?

How much is a dog bite lawsuit worth?

Dog bite claims in the United States have reached an average value of over $50,000, particularly when covered by insurance. In such cases, the dog owner typically incurs only the expense of the deductible while the insurance company covers the majority of the claim. The value of each claim will vary based on several factors. An experienced dog bite lawyer will ensure that you receive the most compensation possible by negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf.

Who pays after a dog bite?

In Bowling Green, KY, dog bite injury victims often hesitate to pursue legal remedies because they’re worried about causing financial hardship for the dog owner, particularly if they are a neighbor, friend, or family member. However, it’s important to note that in most cases, it is the pet owner’s insurance company that handles the compensation for injury claims. Homeowner’s insurance policies typically provide coverage for dog bite injuries that occur on the owner’s property, as pets are legally considered property.

If a dog bite injury happens while the pet is inside a vehicle, the owner’s car insurance will typically cover the claim. Certain insurance companies offer policies that specifically cover dog attacks, and if the owner has such a policy, it can be used to pay for bite injuries. However, if the pet owner does not have any insurance coverage, they will be held liable for the damages.

What to do after being bitten by a dog in Bowling Green, KY

If you have been bitten by a dog, it’s important to take certain steps to ensure your well-being and protect your legal rights. Dog bite victims should take the following actions after being bitten by a dog:

  • Seek Medical Attention: First and foremost, prioritize your health and safety. Assess the severity of the bite and seek medical attention promptly. Even seemingly minor bites can lead to complications, so it’s crucial to have a medical professional evaluate the injury and provide appropriate treatment.
  • Identify the Dog and Owner: If possible, try to identify the dog and its owner. Obtain their contact information, including their name, address, and phone number. This information will be valuable when filing a report or pursuing a legal claim. If the owner of the animal is not known, note the last location of the animal and report it immediately.
  • Document the Incident: Gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos of your injuries, the location where the incident occurred, and any visible signs, such as broken fences or leash violations. This documentation can support your case later on.
  • Report the Incident: Under the law, all dog bites that break the skin must be reported to the Warren County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Department, a doctor/physician or the local Health Department.
  • Obtain Witness Statements: If there were witnesses to the dog bite, obtain their contact information and ask if they would be willing to provide a statement regarding what they saw. Witness statements can strengthen your case if legal action becomes necessary.
  • Preserve Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the incident, such as torn clothing or damaged personal belongings. These items can serve as proof of the attack and its consequences.
  • Consult with an Attorney: Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney who has experience representing clients in dog bite cases. They can assess the circumstances, explain your legal rights, and guide you through the process of seeking compensation for your injuries.

Common dog bite injuries that an attorney can help with

A personal injury attorney experienced in dog bite cases can assist with a variety of injuries resulting from dog bites. Some common dog bite injuries that an attorney can help with include:

  • Puncture Wounds
  • Lacerations
  • Nerve Damage
  • Infections
  • Scarring and Disfigurement
  • Emotional Distress

 

It’s important to consult with a personal injury lawyer Bowling Green has trusted for over 35 years, who is highly experienced in dog bite cases to assess the specific injuries you have sustained and determine the appropriate legal course of action to pursue compensation for your damages.

Contact an experienced dog bite lawyer today

At Hughes & Coleman, we have over 35 years of experience helping dog bite victims across Kentucky. Call us today for a free consultation. When you work with us, you never pay anything unless we recover a settlement or verdict on your behalf.

 

Call today and get it done.

800-800-4600

Reviews and testimonials

See how our attorneys have helped others in their time of need. From start to finish, our team delivers experience and excellence to get you the money you deserve.

They took my case and went above and beyond to make sure I was taking care of, not just physically, but mentally as well. They kept me informed every step of the way and even called to check up on me. I would recommend them to everyone, a great group.

Charo H.

From day-one, the staff at Hughes & Coleman has treated me like I was a human being, not a number. Everyone on their staff was so easy to talk too, they took the time to answer all my questions and made me feel like my case was just as important to them as it was to me.

Dawn R.

Hughes & Coleman not only met my expectations, but fully exceeded them. They were very professional and responsive whenever I contacted them. I will definitely recommend them to anyone who is in need of legal advice.

Judy P.

Dog bite lawyer near you

Call today for a free case evaluation with our legal team and let an experienced dog bite lawyer from our firm help you recover every dollar you deserve.

Hughes & Coleman Injury Lawyers

1256 Campbell Ln #201, Bowling Green, KY 42104

270-782-6000

 

Get In Touch Today!

We offer free consultations 24/7 and there will always be someone here to take your call. Call our personal injury lawyers today for a free consultation or fill out this form and we will contact you.

We serve clients across Tennessee and Kentucky and we have several offices throughout both states. See all of our locations and contact us today.

Kentucky Locations


BOWLING GREEN

1256 Campbell Ln #201

Bowling Green, KY 42104

Phone: (270) 782-6000

VIEW MAP

ELIZABETHTOWN

2110 N Dixie Hwy #102

Elizabethtown, KY 42701

Phone: (270) 737-0640

VIEW MAP

LOUISVILLE POPLAR LEVEL

5004 Poplar Level Rd

Louisville, KY 40219

Phone: (502) 585-4025

VIEW MAP

LOUISVILLE DIXIE

3618 Dixie Hwy

Louisville, KY 40216

Phone: (502) 585-4693

VIEW MAP

LEXINGTON

211 E New Circle Rd

Lexington, KY 40505

Phone: (859) 260-1722

VIEW MAP

Tennessee Locations


NASHVILLE

446 James Robertson Pkwy #100

Nashville, TN 37219

Phone: (615) 255-9100

VIEW MAP

MURFREESBORO

1501 Memorial Blvd

Murfreesboro, TN 37129

Phone: (615) 907-0687

VIEW MAP

CLARKSVILLE

323 N Riverside Dr #100

Clarksville, TN 37040

Phone: (931) 546-7200

VIEW MAP

COLUMBIA

622 W 7th St

Columbia, TN 38401

Phone: (931) 505-7040

VIEW MAP

GALLATIN

126 W Eastland Ave

Gallatin, TN 37066

Phone: (615) 451-4288

VIEW MAP