Louisiana
Dog bites are serious and often traumatic events. The owner’s refusal to take accountability may necessitate legal intervention. At Crescent City Law, we advocate for dog bite injury claims throughout Louisiana. We will meticulously investigate all the details of the incident and work closely with you to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve and feel supported every step of the way. Our experienced team is dedicated and has a strong track record of successfully resolving numerous cases across the state.
Our New Orleans Dog Bite Injury Claims Services:
Dogs are cherished companions, yet their bites can cause severe, life-threatening injuries. If you or a loved one has been affected by a dog bite, securing a seasoned Louisiana dog bite lawyer is crucial for your case.
In a dog bite case, it’s important to note that you typically have just one year from the date of the attack to initiate legal action against the dog’s owner, as outlined in CC §3492.
At Crescent City Personal Injury, we recognize the physical and emotional toll that dog bites can have on victims and their families. Though pursuing compensation for a dog bite can be daunting, our dedicated team is ready to advocate for you. You deserve just compensation for your injuries, and we are committed to ensuring you receive it.
Determining Liability in Dog Bite Injuries in New Orleans
In Louisiana, dog bite laws permit victims to hold owners accountable if their dog has previously shown aggression. Under the “one-bite rule,” the owner is not liable for the first bite unless they were negligent during the incident.
To establish liability in dog bite cases, it must be shown that the owner did not adequately control the dog, leading to the injury. Specifically, the victim needs to prove:
Courts may also look into whether the owner could have anticipated and prevented the attack. If it was foreseeable, the owner was expected to take preventive actions.
Moreover, Louisiana’s strict liability laws mean that for any unprovoked dog bite, you can bring a case against the owner without needing to prove negligence, which often requires less evidence. However, this does not apply if the victim provoked the dog. In such cases, the owner is not liable for the damages.
Who Can Be Liable When a Dog Bites?
In most dog bite cases, the pet owner is held responsible for any injuries the dog causes. However, there are instances where someone else might be liable, such as:
- A person other than the owner who was taking care of the dog at the time.
- A professional dog caretaker, including dog walkers, groomers, kennel operators, veterinary technicians, or shelter employees.
- The dog owner’s landlord, if they knew there was a dangerous dog on the property, failed to take steps to prevent harm to others.
Liability involves figuring out who is responsible for the injuries. A skilled dog bite attorney will analyze the attack to determine fault and assess the victim’s legal options.
Types of Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims in Louisiana
In Louisiana, a dog bite case is treated under personal injury laws, which allows you to file an insurance claim or sue for compensation covering your expenses and losses, such as the following:
- Medical Care Expenses
- Surgery and Scar Treatment
- Mental Health Counseling
- Lost Wages
- Permanent Impairments
- Pain and Suffering.
- Loss of Consortium
What Our New Orleans Dog Bite Injury Clients Say
Our New Orleans Dog Bite Injury Case Process
STEP ONE
Call 504-608-0084 to set up a free consultation with our experienced workers’ compensation team.
STEP TWO
We’ll start working with you as soon as possible to understand all the details of your case and develop our legal plan.
STEP THREE
We’ll fight for the justice you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a dog bite in Louisiana?
Seek medical attention immediately for your injuries. Then, report the incident to local authorities, such as animal control or the police. Document everything, including taking photos of your injuries and the location where the incident occurred, and gather contact information from witnesses. Then get in touch with an experienced dog bite attorney.
Who can be held liable in a dog bite case in Louisiana?
Typically, the dog’s owner is liable for injuries caused by their pet. However, liability may also extend to a landlord, a caretaker, or anyone who had control over the dog at the time of the attack, especially if they were aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies.
Is there a time limit for filing a dog bite lawsuit in Louisiana?
Yes, in Louisiana, you have one year from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit under the state’s statute of limitations. To ensure you work effectively on claims for your injury, partnering with a dog bite lawyer in Louisiana can help you navigate the legal process, meet important deadlines, and enhance your chances of receiving a favorable outcome.
Can I claim compensation if the dog bite was unprovoked?
Yes, you can claim compensation if the bite was unprovoked. Louisiana operates under a strict liability rule, meaning the dog owner may be held responsible regardless of whether the dog has shown aggression in the past.
What types of damages can I recover in a dog bite lawsuit in Louisiana?
You may be eligible to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and future medical treatments related to your injuries. Additionally, if the owner’s negligence was especially severe, you might also receive punitive damages. A dog bite attorney can help you understand and pursue the full range of damages available to you under Louisiana law. Your personal injury attorney will protect your rights and maximize your compensation for the injuries and losses you have suffered due to a dog bite.
Contact Our New Orleans Dog Bite Attorneys Today
Our personal injury lawyers at Crescent City Personal Injury offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case. We are committed to providing personalized legal guidance and will work tirelessly to pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact our Louisiana dog bite attorneys today to learn how we can help you navigate the complexities of your dog bite claim and support you every step of the way toward recovery.
Need legal help? We’re here for you.
Contact us today – we're ready to listen to your story and get you the justice you deserve.
Located in New Orleans, Louisiana, Crescent City Personal Injury serves clients in New Orleans, Metairie, Westbank, Kenner, Laplace, Gretna, Harvey, Marrero, Westwego, Jefferson, Elmwood, Harahan, Bridge City, River Ridge, Arabi, Chalmette, Hahnville, Causeway, Bonnet Carre Spillway. The firm also works with clients in Orleans Parish, Jefferson Parish, Tangipahoa Parish, St. Bernard Parish, St. Charles Parish, St. John the Baptist Parish and St. Tammany Parish.