Being attacked or bitten by a dog can be a traumatic experience. Those that suffer severe dog attacks may develop a phobia of dogs that becomes so serious they refuse to leave their home. When a dog bites a person in the face (children are particularly susceptible to facial bites), scarring can cause disfigurement and further emotional trauma. Even a relatively “minor” dog bite can result in injuries and these injuries can cost money to treat and even prevent the victim from returning to work for a period of time. Being bitten by a dog is an experience that can leave physical and emotional scars. Should this happen to you, you are entitled to compensation from the owner of the dog for your injuries and you should hire a Covington dog bite attorney. 

While some states have what is known as the “one-bite rule”—meaning a dog is essentially given a “free” bite before the owner is held responsible—Kentucky holds dog owners strictly liable when their dog bites or attacks. This means that even the most responsible dog owner who has no reason to think their dog might bite is still liable when the dog causes injury. Following a dog bite or dog attack, having a strong legal advocate in your corner can make a significant difference in the outcome of your dog bite. The attorneys at Adams Law are ready to help you through this difficult time, securing a full, fair settlement on your behalf. 

Why Should You Choose a Covington Dog Bite Attorney from Adams Law?

Adams Law is a full-service law firm, serving clients in Kentucky and Ohio. Founded in 1895, our legal representation is and always has been of the highest quality. Over time, we have changed to ensure we are always forward-thinking and that we utilize technology to improve your client experience. Your best interests always come first at Adams Law as we provide comprehensive yet affordable legal representation. The skillsets and experience of each of our top-rated practitioners are combined to ensure you receive the best legal representation. 

At Adams Law, we believe we provide the perfect balance of stellar client experience and quality representation. Whether your issue is simple, or extremely complex, we will help you navigate potentially confusing legal issues. We know you have choices and hope you will choose Adams Law for your dog bite injuries or other legal issues you may have. 

How Common Are Dog Bites?

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), dog bites pose a serious health risk to society. More than 4.5 million people are bitten or attacked by a dog every year across the United States. Of those, more than 800,000 are seriously injured and must receive medical attention—sometimes, ongoing medical attention for a significant length of time. This means that one in five people who are bitten by a dog requires medical attention, with children being the most common victims of dog bites and dog attacks. The majority of dog bites involve dogs that are not spayed or neutered and about 25 percent of fatal dog attacks are the result of a dog that is chained. While certain dog breeds are more likely to bite, virtually any dog can bite if provoked, frightened, or hurt. 

Where Do Most Dog Bites Occur?

The vast majority of dog bites occur with a known dog in a familiar place. This means that the next-door neighbor’s dog is far more likely to bite you than an unknown dog. Parks are another common place where dog bites can occur. With more and more retail stores, farmer’s markets, and other public areas allowing dogs, dog bites will be more likely to happen in these areas as well. While the owner of the dog that bit someone is most likely to be held liable, recently a lawsuit was filed against Lowe’s after a three-year-old was bitten in the face while inside the store. The dog’s owner was also named in the lawsuit. 

What Should I Do Before Hiring A Dog Bite Attorney?

If you or a loved one are bitten by a dog, receiving medical attention should always be your first priority. If you are able, you should obtain information from the dog’s owner, and take photos of the dog (if it has been secured), and anything else that could help you receive compensation for your injuries. You may need to call the police, as well as animal control if the dog has run away and there is no sign of its owner. These agencies can help you locate the dog’s owner and hold them responsible for your injuries. 

What Are the Most Common Injuries Resulting from a Dog Bite?

Although most dog bites do not result in significant injuries, many do. Some of the most common injuries suffered by those bitten by a dog include:

• Broken or punctured skin, often requiring stitches or sutures
• Broken bones caused by falling as a result of the dog attack
• Eye and facial injuries, often leading to scarring and disfigurement
• Nerve and tissue damages resulting from the bite or bites
• Trauma and emotional damage

It is extremely important that you take care of a dog bite to prevent it from becoming infected. About half of all dog bites introduce bacteria into the body of the individual who was bitten. Caring for the wound is crucial to avoiding infection. Unvaccinated and feral dogs can potentially carry and transfer rabies, so it is important to have the vaccination status of the dog that bit you. 

How a Dog Bite Attorney from Adams Law Can Help

As traumatic as being bitten or attacked by a dog can be, the aftermath can also be challenging. Having an experienced Covington dog bite attorney from Adams Law allows you the time you need to heal from your injuries while we work hard on your behalf to ensure you receive a settlement that covers all your injuries as well as your pain and suffering. Our goal is always to solve your problems, rather than prolong them. Contact Adams Law, PLLC today.