Dogs are known as “man’s best friend,” and our interactions with them have increased throughout the years.
This increase has also resulted in more dog-related injuries.
If you’ve suffered a dog bite, you are not alone. These accidents happen often, and you have legal options.
Fob James Law Firm is here to help you through your dog bite lawsuit. Contact our experienced dog bite attorneys in Birmingham, AL today for a free consultation.
Understanding Alabama Dog Bite Laws
As with any other kind of lawsuit, Alabama has specific laws that govern dog bites.
There is a thorough list of Alabama dog bite laws, some of these including:
- An owner is liable for any injury caused by a dog they know has dangerous propensities;
- If an owner is aware that their dog is dangerous, and they let it roam without a leash, they are liable for injuries caused;
- Owners must keep their dogs confined to the limits of his own premises; and
- The owner of a dog who bites an individual unprovoked on his own property will be responsible for injuries.
If you’ve received a dog bite and want to file a lawsuit, it is important to understand dog bite laws.
A qualified attorney will know and understand all the laws pertaining to your case.
Recent Case Settlement
THE CASE: Our client was attacked by the neighbor’s dog while walking down the street. As a result of the dog attack, our client suffered severe scarring to her triceps and shoulder. After the attack, the client signed a piece of paper with the homeowner settling the claim for $500. Predictably, the insurance carrier denied the client’s bodily injury claim. The insurance adjuster also took the position that the dog did not have any prior aggressive behavior. After two other law firms turned down the case, Attorney Fob James took the case and filed a lawsuit. Fob canvased the neighborhood and took video of the dog, which reflected that the dog was an aggressive pit bull mix.
CASE RESULT: Fob successfully argued his client was fraudulently induced into signing the agreement by the dog owner and that she signed the agreement under extreme duress. The insurance carrier tendered policy limits, which was in the six figures. The client’s medical bills were less than $500.00.
What to Do After Being Bitten by a Dog in Birmingham
If a dog has bitten you, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention.
Failing to do so can worsen injuries or lead to complications and infections.
You should then contact law enforcement and animal control to ensure that the dog is up to date on all vaccinations.
Also, be sure to take photos of your injuries. Photos will serve as proof of your injuries.
Your photos, along with medical records, will serve to help you with your lawsuit.
Once you’re ready, contact a Birmingham dog bite attorney.
They will be your best ally in your legal battle.
Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries
Dogs can cause many kinds of injuries.
Most often, dogs will bite around the hands, legs, or face. Some of the most common dog bite injuries include:
- Lacerations or punctures,
- Nerve or muscle damage,
- Broken bones, and
- Disfigurement.
Dog bites can also lead to further issues, like infections.
To prevent this, you must seek medical treatment right away.
Aggressive Dog Breeds in Birmingham
Dog breeds that are more aggressive than others include the following:
- Pitbulls,
- Chow Chows,
- Rottweilers,
- Dalmatians, and
- Dobermans.
While a dog being a particular breed does not automatically mean they will be aggressive, it is wise to simply be careful around these dogs and avoid provoking them in any way.
Other dogs not recognized on the list of aggressive breeds may also prove to have an aggressive moment.
Dogs can be unpredictable, and it is smart to be careful and aware when around dogs that are not your own.
More Dog Bite Settlements We Have Obtained
THE CASE: Our client was attacked after the neighbor’s dog escaped through a hole in the fence. The severe dog bites caused nerve damage and scarring to our client’s arm. The insurance company refused to pay a fair settlement arguing that the owner did not have prior knowledge of the dog’s violent propensity. This was a bald-faced lie as we uncovered surveillance at the dog’s vet showing the dog attack a nurse in the parking lot.
CASE RESULT: The insurance company requested mediation before trial and settled the case for $207,000.00.
Who Is at Fault for a Dog Bite?
In most cases, the dog’s owner is responsible for your injuries.
Owners are responsible if you were on their property when the attack happened.
If the dog chased you and bit you off-property, the owner may be liable.
On the other hand, if you were trespassing on the dog owner’s property or provoked the animal, it is unlikely that the dog owner will be found responsible for your injuries.
In some cases, if the dog owner is renting their home, the landlord may be liable through premises liability.
Landlords have a duty to prevent dangerous activity on their property that can lead to injuries, so they may be found liable.
How to File an Alabama Dog Bite Claim
If you are considering filing a claim after a dog bite, you must try to act promptly. Dog bite injuries are controlled by statutes of limitations.
A statute of limitations is a law that imposes a time limit on the amount of time you have to file a claim.
In Alabama, the statute of limitations for dog bite injuries is two years from the date of the accident.
If you fail to file your lawsuit within these two years, you will forfeit your right to compensation for your injuries.
This is one of the many reasons why hiring a Birmingham dog bite attorney is beneficial to you and your case.
Your attorney will be sure to get your case filed without delay and handle all aspects of your lawsuit.
Preventing Dog Bites
While some dog attacks are inevitable, there are some things you can do to prevent them.
Some of the best ways to avoid dog bites include:
- Being cautious when approaching dogs you are unfamiliar with;
- Avoiding interaction with dogs that are not on a leash;
- Keeping your distance from dogs that have a history of aggression; and
- Never provoking a dog.
Because dog bites are so common with children, it is particularly important to educate them on how to be safe around dogs—especially dogs they don’t know.
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Dog Bite Claim in Birmingham?
We recommend you contact a Birmingham dog bite lawyer right after an attack.
While you can try to handle your case on your own, a knowledgeable attorney is already familiar with the laws, rules, and regulations relating to dog bites.
Your attorney will know how to properly handle your case from beginning to end while attempting to achieve maximum compensation for your injuries.
Don’t try to handle your case alone.
Contact an experienced Birmingham dog bite attorney.
More Dog Bite Results We Have Obtained
THE CASE: Fob James Law Firm represented a young boy who was mauled by a pitbull breed while visiting his grandmother. His injuries were very severe. The insurance companies denied coverage for a myriad of reasons. AFter agressively litigating the case for two years, the insurance companies gave in and settled the case before trial.
CASE RESULT: The insurance carriers paid $400,000.00 to settle the case.
Our Birmingham Dog Bite Attorneys Are The Top Choice
For more than 40 years, the attorneys at Fob James Law Firm have been fighting for victims of injuries across the country.
We work closely with each of our clients, ensuring they receive personalized attention. With our firm, you will actually speak with your dedicated lawyer not an assistant. You will have your attorneys phone number, email and text.
We make sure that we do not take so many cases that we do not have time to get to know our clients on a personal basis. Knowing what our clients are going through helps us more effectively advocate on their behalf.
We move fast. We do not sit on cases. When we take your case we aggressively work your case from day one to ensure you get the compensation you deserve as soon as possible.
We are not afraid to take your case to trial. As trial lawyers we love to litigate cases in courthouses across Alabama.
We never charge fees up front. If we do not win your case you owe us nothing.
Our case results and client testimonials speak for themselves. Call us today to schedule your free consultation and case review
Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me in Birmingham, AL
Our Birmingham dog bite attorneys have experience representing those who have suffered injuries due to a dog attack.
We understand the frustrations and stresses that come after being injured and strive to get you the compensation you deserve.
Expect kindness, compassion, and top-quality legal representation with Fob James Law Firm.
Contact us today for your free case review.