Need Dog Bite Advice...

by David
(Mobile, AL)

I need some dog bite advice since I got attacked by a dog while walking in my neighborhood with my wife. I got 5 puncture wounds on my arm as I was trying to protect my face. I received stitches but the wounds still got infected, I had severe fever for 3 days and ended up in the ER. I missed work for 3 days and decided to go back as I was afraid I might lose my job since the economy is so bad.

The dog already bit someone last year and people have filed complaints with the Home Owner's Association.

Can you tell me how much is my case worth if I chose to go after the owners? She did drop off a card in my mailbox saying she's sorry. On the day of the attack she came outside, called her dog in and gave me a couple of paper towels to stop the bleeding. Thanks.

Disclaimer: Information provided in our response is NOT formal legal advice. It is generic legal information based on the very limited information you provided. Under no circumstances should the information in our response, or anywhere else on this site be relied upon when making decisions about your case. You should always get a formal case review from a licensed attorney.

ANSWER for "Need Dog Bite Advice...":

David:

You mentioned the dog had previously bitten someone. The combination of the previous dog bite and the dog’s most recent attack on you should be sufficient to have the continued existence of the dog reviewed by the State of Alabama.

You might start by calling your county’s Animal Control Department. You can also file a complaint with your local District Attorney.

These governmental agencies take attacks by dogs very seriously. They imagine the worst case scenario of a helpless child being attacked and seriously injured or killed by the same dog that bit you.

Some might say it is your duty to report the dog’s recent attack on you. Regardless, your decision may go a long way to stopping another person from being attacked by the dog.

In addition you might consider speaking with a qualified Personal Injury attorney. She will be able to advise you if your case is meritorious. If so there may be a good chance you will be able to recover a financial award for the Actual Damages including, but not limited to, emergency room costs, doctor’s treatment costs, medications, bandages and more.

In addition you may be entitled to recover for the Pain and Suffering you endured as a result of the attack, as well as any lost wages for those times you were unable to work as a result of the dog attack.

Since laws change frequently and across jurisdictions you should get a personalized case evaluation from an attorney licensed in your state (if you haven't already). Find an experienced local attorney to give you a FREE personalized case review here.


Best of luck,

Law Guy