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Louisville Dog Bite Lawyer
At Mory & Colliersmith, PLLC, we understand how devastating dog bite injuries can be. Our experienced Louisville dog bite attorneys are here to fight for your rights, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve while navigating Kentucky's complex dog bite laws.
We take pride in providing comprehensive legal support, which includes guiding you through each step of the legal process, addressing common defenses dog owners might raise, and outlining the essential steps victims should take after a dog bite incident.
Our legal team has years of experience representing victims of dog bites in Louisville. We provide personalized attention, aggressive representation, and compassionate care throughout your case. We walk you through the entire legal journey—from filing insurance claims and demand letters to negotiating settlements and representing you in court if needed.
Experienced Louisville Dog Bite Lawyer Ready To Serve You
Kentucky Dog Bite Law
Kentucky follows a strict liability rule for dog bite cases, holding owners responsible regardless of the dog's history. This means you may have a valid claim even if the dog had never bitten anyone before. However, the state's pure comparative negligence rule may reduce compensation if the victim is found partially at fault.
Understanding the Legal Process
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Not only is this crucial for your health, but medical records serve as key evidence.
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Report the Incident: Reporting to animal control creates an official record of the event.
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Document Everything: Photographs, witness statements, and medical reports are essential pieces of evidence.
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Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney: We help determine the best course of action based on Kentucky's dog bite laws.
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Negotiation or Litigation: We negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement or proceed to trial if necessary.
Should You Sue Your Neighbor? Insurance Coverage for Dog Bites
Many dog bites occur on properties owned by friends or neighbors. Lawsuits may seem personal, but in most cases, homeowners' insurance policies cover dog bite claims. We’ll help you navigate this sensitive issue and ensure you receive appropriate compensation without damaging relationships.
We also discuss the emotional considerations of pursuing claims against neighbors and how insurance companies typically handle such cases.
Potential Dog Bite Damages
Dog bite victims may recover:
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Medical expenses (surgery, medication, physical therapy)
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Lost wages
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Pain and suffering
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Psychological trauma
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Permanent scarring or disfigurement
We provide detailed explanations of each damage type and discuss how these are calculated in Kentucky courts.
How Much Is a Dog Bite Claim Worth?
Dog bite settlements depend on:
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Severity of injuries
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Extent of medical treatment
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Impact on daily life and earning capacity
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Long-term psychological effects
We explore local case examples and national statistics to give you a realistic understanding of potential claim values.
Third-Party Defendants
Sometimes, third parties may share liability. For example:
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Landlords who failed to remove a known dangerous dog
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Property managers who ignored complaints about aggressive animals
We thoroughly investigate every angle to maximize your compensation, explaining how third-party involvement can influence your claim.
Defense: Comparative Fault in Dog Bite Cases in Kentucky
Kentucky’s pure comparative fault system reduces compensation based on the victim's share of responsibility. For instance:
Example:
If you’re found 10% at fault for provoking the dog, your damages will be reduced by 10%. We detail how comparative fault can be challenged and reduced through solid legal arguments.
The Statute of Limitations
In Kentucky, victims have one year from the date of the bite to file a claim. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to compensation. File your claim early to protect your rights. We also explain exceptions to this rule, such as cases involving minors or delayed discovery of injuries.
Settling vs. Suing
Many dog bite claims are settled out of court. Settlements can provide quicker resolutions but may result in lower compensation. Our attorneys will guide you on whether a settlement or trial offers the best outcome, providing real-life case studies for context.
Contact a Louisville Dog Bite Attorney
Dog bite cases require expert navigation of Kentucky laws and insurance negotiations. Our dedicated Louisville dog bite lawyers will ensure you receive the maximum compensation available.
Request A Consultation
You must act quickly and contact a dog bite injury lawyer as soon as possible. Call Mory & Colliersmith right now for a free consultation at (502) 212-4333 or visit morycolliersmith.com.