Hurt By Someone Else’s Dog? Turn To Our Kingsport Injury Lawyers

Being attacked by a dog can leave you with painful injuries, unexpected medical bills and lasting emotional trauma. Children are especially vulnerable to serious injuries, but anyone can suffer harm when a dog owner fails to keep their animal under control. If you or someone you love has been bitten by a dog, you may have the right to seek compensation.

At Spivey, King & Spivey, LLP, we help dog bite injury victims throughout Kingsport and the Tri-City Area, including Johnson City and Bristol. With over 90 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys know how to investigate injury claims, establish liability and fight for the compensation our clients deserve.

Understanding Tennessee Dog Bite Laws

A dog owner’s legal responsibility after an attack depends on where the incident happened and the circumstances involved. Tennessee Code § 44-8-413 requires owners to take reasonable steps to control their dogs and keep them from running loose.

The law generally follows two approaches:

• Strict liability: When an uncontrolled dog injures someone in a public place or lawfully on another person’s property, the owner may be liable even if the dog has never attacked anyone before.
• The “one-bite” rule: When an injury occurs on certain residential or other noncommercial property where the dog owner lawfully resides or is present, the victim must generally show that the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous.

These distinctions can make dog bite claims complicated. Our personal injury attorneys examine where the attack happened, the dog’s history and other evidence to determine the best approach to your case.

Common Dog Bite Injuries And Available Compensation

A dog attack can cause serious injuries that require extensive treatment, particularly when the victim is a young child. Common injuries include:

• Deep puncture wounds and lacerations
• Nerve damage and muscle injuries
• Infections and permanent scarring
• Facial injuries and disfigurement
• Psychological trauma and anxiety

Depending on the circumstances, victims may pursue compensation for medical expenses, reconstructive surgery, rehabilitation, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Our attorneys work to document the full impact of your injuries, including any long-term care you may need.

Find Experienced Legal Help At Spivey, King & Spivey, LLP, After A Dog Attack

You should not have to bear the financial burden of injuries caused by someone else’s failure to control their dog. Since 1979, Spivey, King & Spivey, LLP, has fought for injured people across northeast Tennessee. We prepare cases thoroughly and are willing to take them to trial when necessary.

Call us at 423-661-7934 or contact us online to discuss your dog bite injury with an experienced Kingsport personal injury attorney.