Dog attacks are terrifying, traumatic, and often result in serious injuries that require immediate medical and legal attention. If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a dog in Plaquemine, knowing the right steps to take can significantly affect your health, safety, and ability to seek financial recovery. At Rozas Injury Law, LLC, we guide victims of dog bite injuries through every step of the legal process, ensuring they understand their rights and how to pursue compensation under Louisiana personal injury law.
Immediate Steps After a Dog Attack
1. Seek Medical Attention
Even if the wound seems minor, seek immediate medical care. Dog bite injuries can lead to infections, deep tissue damage, and serious complications if not treated quickly. Be sure to obtain your medical records, as they will be essential when filing a dog bite claim.
2. Identify the Dog and Its Owner
Try to identify the dog and the owner of the dog. Ask for contact information, determine if the dog is current on rabies vaccinations, and take note of any license tags. This information is crucial for both medical treatment and the eventual dog bite case.
3. Report the Attack to Animal Control
Contact local animal control or the Iberville Parish Animal Shelter to report the incident. Animal control officers will document the attack, investigate the dog’s actions, and determine whether the animal poses a threat to others. This report will help establish the owner’s liability and may uncover past aggression from the same dog.
4. Document Everything
Take photographs of your injuries, torn clothing, and the area where the attack occurred. Keep a written account of the incident and how your injuries have impacted your daily life. This documentation will support your dog bite claim and your attorney’s negotiation with the insurance company.
Legal Rights After a Dog Attack in Louisiana
Louisiana does not follow the traditional one bite rule. Instead, under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2321, dog owners are generally liable for damage caused by their animals if:
- The owner knew or should have known the dog’s actions could cause harm
- The harm could have been prevented with reasonable care
- The owner failed to exercise such care
- The injured person did not provoke the dog
This means that the dog owner may be held liable for your injuries even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
Filing a Dog Bite Claim in Plaquemine
To recover damages, the injured person must file a personal injury claim against the dog owner. This may involve negotiating with the owner’s insurance company or filing a lawsuit if a fair settlement isn’t reached. A strong dog bite case includes:
- Medical records and bills
- Photos and videos of the injury
- Witness statements
- Animal control reports
- Evidence of dog owner’s negligence
Compensation in a dog bite case may include lost wages, medical expenses, physical pain, and non economic damages such as emotional trauma or reduced quality of life.
Why You Need a Dog Bite Attorney
Dog attacks can leave lasting scars—physically, emotionally, and financially. Hiring a dog bite attorney who understands personal injury law in Louisiana is crucial. At Rozas Injury Law, LLC, we provide comprehensive legal support to victims of dog attacks in Plaquemine and throughout Iberville Parish.
Our team has handled numerous dog bite claims, and we are committed to proving the dog owner’s negligence and helping you recover damages. We also assist in communication with the insurance company, compiling evidence, and managing court filings.
The Importance of Prompt Legal Action
Acting quickly after a dog attack ensures you have access to all available evidence and maximizes your chances of financial recovery. Delaying legal action can limit your options and weaken your case. Our personal injury attorneys are ready to step in and help you move forward with strength and confidence.
Learn more about what to do after a dog attack in Plaquemine. Call Rozas Injury Law, LLC at (225) 343-0010 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
FAQs: Dog Attacks and Dog Bite Claims in Plaquemine
Q1: Can I sue a dog owner in Plaquemine if I was bitten on their property?
Yes. Even if the dog bite occurred on private property, the dog owner may be found liable if they failed to take reasonable care to prevent the attack.
Q2: What damages can I recover in a dog bite case?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical care, lost wages, physical pain, emotional suffering, and future medical needs.
Q3: Do I need to report the attack to animal control?
Yes. Reporting to animal control or the parish animal shelter helps create an official record and can uncover any history of animal cruelty or prior bites.
Q4: What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
Under Louisiana law, owners can still be held liable even if it was the dog’s first bite—if it’s proven that the owner failed to exercise reasonable care.
Q5: How can a dog bite attorney help my case?
An experienced dog bite attorney will guide you through the legal process, deal with the insurance company, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
