Dog owners must be responsible and ensure their pets do not harm the public. When pets have a history of aggression, owners must keep them in a secure enclosure or on a leash at all times. An attack from a canine is traumatic and can leave you with severe and lasting physical, emotional, and financial damages.
An attorney seasoned in dog bite liability in Olive Branch at The Law Office of David E. Gordon will fight for your legal rights and help collect the compensation you deserve. Call today and schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable dog bite lawyers.
Dog Bite Injuries
While some breeds have the ability to cause more harm, any dog can attack when they feel a threat or fear for themselves or their owner. Some frequent injuries from severe dog bites and attacks include the following:
- Severe cuts and deep lacerations
- Puncture wounds
- Emotional and psychological injuries
- Broken bones
- Crushing injuries
- Nerve damage
- Facial damage, including eye injuries
- Permanent scarring
- Head, skull, and traumatic brain injuries
- Traumatic amputations
Establishing liability for a dog bite injury in Olive Branch is complicated. An understanding and qualified attorney like David E. Gordon can help an injured person hold the at-fault party legally and financially accountable.
Collecting Evidence to Document Injuries
Resolving a civil lawsuit can take months, and sometimes longer. Therefore, it is crucial to collect evidence to document the injuries and other losses as soon as possible after the dog attack.
Photograph all wounds and abrasions from multiple angles for the lawsuit. Keeping a journal to document the physical and emotional pain can be extremely helpful. Take notes throughout the recovery process, including tracking daily well-being and pain.
Poy Versus Grayson and Proving Liability in Civil Court
The state has no statute explicitly covering damages from dog bites. However, a 1973 Mississippi case, Poy Versus Grayson, 273 So.2d 491, 494, provides the legal precedent for the elements that must be present to collect damages from dog owners for injuries. When there is no way for owners to know their pets may be dangerous or cause harm to others, civil laws will not hold them financially responsible. A claim for damages must demonstrate the following:
- The animal was aggressive or exhibited the ability to cause harm to others before the attack
- The owner knew or had enough reason to know the dog was likely to cause harm to others
An Olive Branch lawyer experienced with cases centered around dog bite injuries can review the case details and investigate to determine if the necessary elements are present to hold the owner liable.
Recoverable Damages
After establishing that the owner was negligent, the court may award damages, including compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disabilities
- Disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Lost wages and income for missed hours from work
- Medical expenses, such as hospital bills, surgery, and ongoing treatment
A skilled legal professional can help a dog bite victim build a comprehensive claim for compensation that accounts for the full extent of their losses.
Schedule a Consultation with an Olive Branch Attorney About Dog Bite Liability Laws
The civil laws in Mississippi do not expressly address civil liability for damages from dog bites or attacks. However, when cases prove specific elements are present, the court will hold the pet owner responsible.
When someone else’s dog attacks you or someone you love, you may be eligible for compensation to cover your damages and losses. Speak to a hard-working and compassionate lawyer at The Law Office of David E. Gordon for more information about dog bite liability in Olive Branch.
