Animal Attack Lawyers in Arkansas
A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that over 4.7 million Americans sustain dog bite injuries every year. Of those, almost 800,000 require medical attention and 368,000 are treated in an emergency room. Many dog bite injuries are sustained by children. Depending on the size and strength of the dog, a bite can sever a finger, damage facial nerves, penetrate body organs, cause infection, and all can cause serious emotional trauma.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a dog attack, call the experienced Arkansas dog bite lawyers at Caddell Reynolds Law Firm for help at 800-671-4100.
Understanding Why a Dog Would Attack
There are many reasons why a dog would attack another person:
- A change in a dog’s temperament due to sickness or disease
- Improper discipline could cause a dog to attack
- Taking a dog’s food or bone away if they are eating
- A hectic environment could cause a dog to become nervous and lash out
- If a dog becomes frightened or nervous they may attack
- If a dog suffers severe neglect they may become aggressive
Time Limits on Arkansas Dog Bite Claims
If you are seriously injured by a dog bite or other type of animal attack, Arkansas has a statute of limitations on filing a claim. A dog bite injury claim should be filed within three years of the date of injury. The injuries from a dog bite or animal attack can be severe and life-altering.
When someone is seriously injured in a dog attack, the responsibility is usually the dog owner’s. Dog bite injuries can range from broken and fractured bones to significant scarring. It is not uncommon for the victim to be left with such great physical injuries that plastic surgery is required. However, even that may not fully repair the damage.
Arkansas Dog Bite Laws
Arkansas does not have a civil dog bite statute. However, it does have a criminal statute. This helps the victim receive compensation for medical expenses.
What Should You Do After a Dog Attack?
The first thing to do after a dog attack is to seek medical attention for the injured party. Depending on the severity of the attack, a child or adult may require plastic surgery. Especially if the wounds are facial, a plastic surgeon will know how to best repair the injury.
If you can, take pictures of the dog, the dog’s owner, and the wound before and after medical attention. Try to get the dog owner’s information, including if the dog was up-to-date with its shots. Try to get any witness statements. With a cell phone, it is easy to document an incident by taking photos and video.
Do not make any statements about the dog attack to anyone other than the police. It is important to hire an experienced Arkansas dog bite attorney to handle your case. Always wait to speak with your lawyer before speaking with anyone else about your situation.
If you have been injured in an attack by a dog, contact our Arkansas personal injury lawyers at Caddell Reynolds Law Firm to speak with one of our experienced lawyers during a free consultation. You may have the right to compensation for your injuries and other damages.
