Murfreesboro Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog bites can cause severe physical and emotional trauma, leaving victims with significant medical expenses, lost wages, and psychological scars. In Tennessee, dog owners have a legal duty to ensure their pets do not harm others. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Murfreesboro, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. At The Law Offices of Christopher Eads, our Murfreesboro dog bite lawyer is here to help you navigate the legal process and pursue the justice you deserve. Call us today for a free consultation.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Christopher Eads?
- Over 75 claims successfully resolved in our first year, with a 100% success rate.
- Attorney Christopher Eads is dedicated to keeping clients informed and prioritizing their needs throughout the legal process.
- As a former insurance defense attorney, Christopher Eads has unique insight into the tactics insurers use to undervalue claims.
Understanding Tennessee’s Dog Bite Laws
Tennessee follows a “strict liability” rule in many dog bite cases. Under this law, a dog owner may be held liable for injuries caused by their pet, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression. However, the circumstances of the bite can influence liability. For instance, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries if the bite occurs in a public place or if the victim was lawfully present on private property, such as an invited guest. However, if the bite occurred on the owner’s property, the victim must prove the owner was negligent in controlling or restraining the dog, unless the dog is classified as a “dangerous dog.”
Common Injuries from Dog Bites
Dog attacks can result in severe and lasting injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Puncture Wounds and Lacerations: These injuries can lead to infections and require surgical intervention.
- Facial Injuries: Dog bites often occur on the face, leaving victims with disfigurement and the need for reconstructive surgery.
- Nerve Damage: A deep bite can sever nerves, leading to long-term mobility issues or chronic pain.
- Emotional Trauma: Victims, particularly children, may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following an attack.
Proper medical documentation and expert testimony are critical in demonstrating the full extent of these damages in your claim.
Comparative Fault in Murfreesboro Dog Bite Cases
Tennessee’s comparative fault laws may apply if the dog owner argues that the victim was partially responsible for the bite. For example, the owner may claim the victim ignored warning signs or carelessly approached the dog.
Under Tennessee’s modified comparative fault rule, a victim can still recover damages as long as they are less than 50% at fault for the incident. However, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault. This makes it essential to have a skilled attorney who can counter these defenses and establish the owner’s primary liability.
Proving Your Case
To succeed in a dog bite claim, our firm will collect and present evidence demonstrating the owner’s liability. This may include, for example, testimony from witnesses who saw the attack, medical records detailing the extent of your injuries, photos of the injuries and the scene of the attack, and records of any prior complaints or incidents involving the dog. We also work closely with medical and psychological experts as necessary to ensure your claim reflects the full impact of the attack on your life.
Contact a Murfreesboro Dog Bite Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a dog bite incident, don’t face the legal process alone. The Law Offices of Christopher Eads is here to guide you through every step and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us at (615) 622-6060 to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.