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.

Understanding Louisiana Dog Bite Laws

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.

Types of Compensation in Dog Bite Cases

Victims of dog bites in Louisiana may be entitled to various types of compensation based on the damages they suffer, including:

1. Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical bills related to the injury, such as hospital stays, surgeries, and physical therapy.
2. Lost Wages: If the injury causes you to miss work, you may recover compensation for lost income and future earning potential.
3. Pain and Suffering: This covers physical pain, emotional distress, and any psychological trauma you experience due to the bite.
4. Property Damage: In some cases, victims may also recover compensation for property damage, such as torn clothing or broken personal items.
5. Disfigurement and Scarring: Dog bites can lead to permanent scarring or disfigurement, and compensation can include funds for reconstructive surgery or long-term care.
6. Wrongful Death: If a dog bite results in the death of a loved one, surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages related to the loss.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite injuries can vary from mild to life-threatening, with the most common including:

• Puncture wounds
• Lacerations
• Nerve damage
• Infections such as rabies or tetanus
• Facial injuries, which may require plastic surgery
• Emotional trauma, particularly in children

Louisiana's Dangerous Dog Law

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.

Liability for Dog Bites in Louisiana

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.

Contact Brandt & Sherman – Your Trusted Lafayette Dog Bite Lawyers

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.