Dog bite injuries can be so severe that they cause permanent disability. In other cases, making a full recovery takes a very long time. A long recovery period comes with high medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost income. In Fort Polk, you have a right to recover compensation from the reckless dog owner for your damages.
Our Fort Polk dog bite lawyer can pursue fair compensation. We can review your dog bite case and explain what legal avenues you can pursue. Keep reading for information on pursuing damages and how we can help.
How the Law Protects You After a Dog Bite in Fort Polk
Laws protect you if you suffer a dog bite because of the owner’s recklessness. Under LA Civ Code Art. 2321, a dog owner is responsible for the damages that their pet causes.
This provision stands if:
- The defendant had prior knowledge or should have known that their dog would cause harm.
- The defendant could have prevented the harm if they demonstrated due care.
- The defendant did not practice reasonable care.
- The plaintiff did not provoke the dog.
If the dog that attacked you meets the criteria of a dangerous dog found under RS 14:102.14, it could prove your claims against the defendant. Your personal injury lawyer can provide you with a more detailed explanation of dog bite laws in the state.
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Taking Legal Action Against the Dog Owner in Fort Polk
You could file a claim against the dog owner’s insurance company to recover damages. The process of filing a claim may seem daunting. However, we can help you file the claim and take care of the paperwork. In doing so, you don’t have to worry about making an error that can affect your claim.
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Damages You May Recover in Your Dog Bite Claim in Louisiana
If severe damage occurs, treatment for dog bite injuries may include reconstructive surgery, medication, and physical therapy. Treatment can attract high medical bills. Your compensation will cover medical expenses.
You may be unable to go to work for some time after the incident to facilitate recovery. During this time, you may lose income. Your settlement will cover these lost wages. It can also cover lost future earning potential. This is where you cannot work in the same capacity as before the attack because of a resulting disability. Damages can also be non-economic. Examples are:
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
Your attorney can help you calculate the value of your dog bite claim. They can also examine your case to identify all the damages you can recover.
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We Can Represent Any Dog Bite Injury Case in Fort Polk
Dog bites often happen in people’s properties. You may have been a guest at a friend’s or neighbor’s property when their dog bit you. Remember, your claim is not against the dog owner but their insurer. We can help you recover damages from the owner’s insurance provider.
If your child was the victim of a dog bite, we could help you hold the responsible party accountable. Dog bites can turn fatal for children because the injuries are often located in sensitive areas such as the neck and head.
Once you file a claim with the insurer, negotiations will ensue. We can present a strong case to back your claims. We want to help you get the compensation you need.
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Remember the Statute of Limitations for a Fort Polk Dog Bite Lawsuit
The statute of limitations limits the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit. You might have to file a lawsuit with a civil court in Louisiana if you cannot settle with the insurer. Filing a lawsuit means the court decides your dog bite case and determines what you get in damages.
In Louisiana, you must file a dog bite lawsuit within one year from when you got injured under LA Civ Code Art. 3492. If you file a lawsuit after the period ends, the defense will likely point out that fact. Then the court might dismiss your case, and you will lose the chance to recover damages.
Once you hire our Fort Polk lawyers, they can start working on your dog bite case as soon as possible. Doing so will ensure you do not miss any important case deadlines.
How to Protect Your Legal Right to Compensation Following a Dog Bite
After a dog attack, you should try and get as much information about its owner as possible. Collect their insurance and contact information. This will help your lawyer in the claims process. Also, document the scene of the attack and your injuries. You can do this by taking pictures or videos.
Document the dog’s breed and size. Obtain medical care after the attack. Dog bites can cause nerve injury, tendon rupture, tetanus, and rabies. Rabies affects your nervous system. The doctor will note down how severe your injuries are. This information can help your case.
Make an official report about the dog bite with local law enforcement. The report can help back your claims. Then, you can seek the help of your dog bite attorney in Fort Polk. We are familiar with handling dog bite cases. So, we can help you navigate the complicated settlement process.
Call a Fort Polk Dog Bite Lawyer for Assistance
You could hold the negligent dog owner responsible for your sustained damages. We can build a solid case to support your claims and help you recover compensation. We can also answer all the questions you might have regarding your case.
Reach out to a Fort Polk law firm today. We charge no legal fees until we settle or win your dog bite case.
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