Dog bite incidents can result in severe injuries, emotional trauma, and significant medical expenses. If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog bite in Louisiana, the experienced legal team at Brandt & Sherman is here to help. Our Lafayette dog bite lawyers are well-versed in Louisiana's unique laws surrounding dog bite liability and are dedicated to ensuring victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Under Louisiana law (Civil Code Article 2321), dog owners are responsible for injuries caused by their pets if the owner knew or should have known that the dog was dangerous. The victim must also prove that they did not provoke the dog and that the owner failed to take reasonable care to prevent the bite. This "strict liability" approach means that a dog owner can be held liable even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. Understanding these laws is crucial to determining liability and filing a successful claim.
Victims of dog bites in Louisiana may be entitled to various types of compensation based on the damages they suffer, including:
Dog bite injuries can vary from mild to life-threatening, with the most common including:
In Louisiana, a "dangerous dog" is typically one that has exhibited aggressive behavior in the past or has been involved in previous bite incidents. Dog owners are legally required to take precautions if they own a dangerous dog, such as keeping the animal restrained or muzzled in public. Failing to do so could lead to severe penalties and increased liability if the dog attacks someone.
Louisiana follows a "strict liability" rule when it comes to dog bites, but there are exceptions. The dog owner may not be held liable if the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing on the owner's property at the time of the attack. Proving liability can be complex, which is why working with a skilled dog bite attorney is essential to building a strong case.
At Brandt & Sherman, our dedicated team of Lafayette dog bite lawyers understands the impact a dog bite can have on your life. We are committed to helping you navigate the legal process, from investigating the incident to negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, representing you in court. Our goal is to secure maximum compensation for your injuries so that you can focus on healing.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about how we can help you. You don’t have to face the aftermath of a dog bite alone—let Brandt & Sherman fight for your rights.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Louisiana, there are several important steps to take to protect your health and your legal rights:
Hiring a lawyer is critical if you have sustained serious injuries, face mounting medical bills, or are dealing with an uncooperative dog owner or insurance company. A lawyer can help investigate the incident, determine liability, and calculate the full value of your claim, ensuring that all your damages—both economic and non-economic—are considered.
If your dog bites someone in Louisiana, you could be held financially responsible for the victim’s injuries under Civil Code Article 2321. In most cases, you would be required to cover the victim’s medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Additionally, if the bite was a result of your negligence (such as failing to properly leash your dog in a public area), you could face further legal consequences. Louisiana law mandates that dog owners must take reasonable precautions to prevent their pets from causing harm to others.
The amount of compensation you can receive for a dog bite in Louisiana depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the cost of medical treatment, and whether the dog has a history of aggression. On average, victims of dog bites may be entitled to thousands of dollars in compensation, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. It’s important to consult with a lawyer who can accurately assess your case and help you negotiate a fair settlement.
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