Dog attacks can be traumatic experiences that leave victims with serious physical and emotional scars. In Mississippi, dog bite cases involve unique legal considerations that can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation for your injuries. The trauma surrounding a dog attack is difficult to navigate alone, and the attorneys at Coxwell & Associates are here to help.
The attorneys at Coxwell & Associates, PLLC, have actual experience handling dog bite cases. We also have personal experience. Today marks the two-year anniversary from the date in which Attorney Courtney Sanders’ son was attacked by a dog when he was only 19 months old. We understand the nature and complexity of the laws as well as emotions that arise when one experiences a life changing event such as a serious dog bite.
Mississippi's Dog Bite Legal Landscape
Unlike some states with strict liability laws, Mississippi follows a "negligence" approach to dog bite cases. This means that proving liability requires demonstrating specific elements:
- Owner's Knowledge of Dog's Aggressive Tendencies
- The dog must have previously shown aggressive behavior or a propensity to bite
- This is often referred to as the "one bite rule" in legal circles
- Victims must prove the owner knew or should have known about the dog's dangerous nature
- Proving Negligence
- Demonstrating the owner failed to exercise reasonable care in controlling their dog
- This could include violating local leash laws or allowing a known aggressive dog to roam freely
- Evidence such as witness statements, animal control reports, and medical records are crucial
Types of Recoverable Damages
Victims of dog bite attacks may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Surgical costs
- Wound treatment and rehabilitation
- Psychological counseling
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Potential scarring and disfigurement
Critical Steps After a Dog Bite
If you have been attacked by a dog, it is critical that you take important actions such as seeking immediate medical attention, reporting the incident to local animal control, documenting injuries with photographs, gathering contact information from the dog’s owner and any witnesses.
Some do not think about this until after the fact due to the traumatic nature of dog attacks, but it is important to preserve any clothing or personal items damaged or which show the degree of the attack – such as a shirt covered in blood. Rather than a “one size fits all” law firm, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney who has successfully handled dog bite personal injury cases in Mississippi.
Statute of Limitations
In Mississippi, dog bite injury claims must be filed within 3 years of the incident. Waiting too long can permanently bar your right to compensation.
Special Considerations
- Children are often more vulnerable in dog attack cases
- Some homeowners' insurance policies may cover dog bite incidents
- Previous complaints or citations against the dog owner can strengthen your case
Why Legal Representation Matters
Dog bite cases in Mississippi can be complex. An experienced personal injury attorney can:
- Investigate the dog's history
- Gather crucial evidence
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Pursue maximum compensation for your injuries
Conclusion
Dog bite injuries can be physically and emotionally devastating. Understanding your legal rights is the first step toward recovery. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog in Mississippi, don't navigate this challenging process alone. Believe me, I know, as my son suffered a dog attack at 19 months old followed by reconstructive lip surgery. The incident is tragic enough – let us help you through the process.
Contact Coxwell & Associates, PLLC, today for a free, confidential consultation. We're committed to helping dog bite victims get the justice and compensation they deserve.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Each case is unique, and results can vary.