Being attacked by a dog is a traumatic experience. You are left with physical and emotional wounds. While your physical injury may heal over time, your emotional scars may linger.
Sadly, not every dog is “man’s best friend”—and not every dog owner is responsible. As more people own and interact with dogs, the number of dog-related injuries has increased.
If you are searching online for a “dog bite lawyer near me” after an attack, speak with a dog bite injury lawyer in Montgomery, AL.
At Fob James Law Firm, we have years of experience assisting injured victims just like you. We are here to help you through the legal process and help protect your rights.
Understanding Alabama Dog Bite Laws
Like other states, Alabama has its own set of laws that pertain to dog bites. Some essential points in Alabama’s dog bite laws include:
- If an owner keeps a dog that they know is dangerous, they will be liable for any injuries the dog causes;
- If an owner knows their dog has dangerous tendencies and opts to leave their dog off a leash, they will be liable for injuries caused;
- Dog owners are required to keep their dogs confined to their own property limits; and
- When a dog bites someone who did not provoke it, and it occurs on the dog owner’s property, the owner will be responsible for injuries.
If someone’s dog bites you and you want to file a claim, you must understand the applicable dog bite laws. When you need dog bite injury legal help, the skilled team at Fob James Law Firm is here to answer all your questions.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Montgomery, AL?
The first thing you should do following a dog bite injury is to seek medical attention. If you fail to see a doctor right away, you could wind up with an infection or complications.
Next, you should contact law enforcement animal control. You must report the incident and ensure the dog is up to date on vaccinations.
If possible, take photos of your injuries. These will help prove your claim, show the severity of your injuries, and serve as documentation of the healing process.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
A dog bite can result in various types of injuries. Most dog bite injuries tend to be on the hands, face, or legs. Some of the most common injuries we see in cases include:
- Punctures or lacerations,
- Broken bones,
- Muscle or nerve damage, and
- Disfigurement and scars.
It’s not uncommon for dog bites to become infected. That is one reason why seeking medical treatment right away is so important.
It would be best if you had the wound cleaned and treated to remove all the bacteria and germs present.
Who Is at Fault for a Dog Bite in Alabama?
Before you can collect any compensation, you need to prove liability. In most cases, the dog owner will be legally responsible.
The owner would be liable if you were lawfully on the dog owner’s property when the attack occurred. If the dog chased you off the property and then bit you, the owners could also be responsible.
However, if you were trespassing at the time or you provoked the dog, the owner might not be liable.
If the dog owner is a renter, the property owner might share some liability as well under premises liability laws.
Landlords have a legal obligation to prevent dangerous activity on their property that leads to injuries.
Filing a Claim for a Dog Bite in Alabama
If you are considering pursuing an injury claim for your dog bite, try to act as quickly as possible. Like other types of injuries, there is a statute of limitations that pertains to dog bite claims.
In general, you typically have two years from the date of the accident. Failure to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations means that the court will likely dismiss your case.
You will forfeit your right to compensation. That is one of the reasons hiring a skilled attorney is so important.
Do You Need a Dog Bite Attorney in Montgomery, AL?
While you are not legally obligated to hire an attorney to represent you in an injury claim, it’s highly recommended.
You need someone who can help protect your rights and be your advocate with the dog owner’s insurance company.
The legal team at Fob James Law Firm is already familiar with the rules, laws, and other regulations that pertain to dog bite claims in Alabama.
We know how to handle your case while fighting for the maximum compensation possible in your case. Do not attempt to handle your claim alone.
Get the dog bite injury legal help you need. Contact Fob James Law Firm today or call us at 334-739-9000 to schedule an initial consultation.