Dog Bites

Support When You Need It Most

A dog bite can cause serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and unexpected medical bills. If you've been attacked by a dog in Tennessee, AskLitigation is here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Dog bite cases are a type of personal injury claim. Our attorneys also handle related matters such as premises liability and slip and fall accidents.

Understanding Tennessee Dog Bite Law

Tennessee follows a "one bite rule" with some modifications, which differs from strict liability states:

• First Bite Rule: Dog owners may not be liable for the first bite if they had no reason to know the dog was dangerous.
• Actual Knowledge: Owners are liable if they knew or should have known their dog had vicious tendencies.
• Negligence Standard: Victims must typically prove the owner was negligent in controlling their dog.
• Statutory Protection: Tennessee Code § 44-8-413 provides some protection for victims of dangerous dogs.

When Dog Owners Are Liable in Tennessee

Dog owners may be held liable when:

• They knew their dog had previously bitten someone or shown aggressive behavior
• They failed to properly restrain or control a known dangerous dog
• They violated local leash laws or animal control ordinances
• They were negligent in supervising their dog around others

Proving liability in Tennessee requires demonstrating the owner's knowledge of the dog's dangerous propensities or negligent conduct.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks can result in severe injuries, including:

• Puncture wounds and lacerations
• Nerve damage
• Broken bones
• Facial injuries and scarring
• Infections and diseases
• Emotional trauma and PTSD
• In severe cases, wrongful death

Children are particularly vulnerable to serious injuries from dog bites, especially facial injuries due to their height.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

If you've been bitten by a dog in Tennessee, take these important steps:

1. Seek immediate medical attention - Dog bites can cause serious infections
2. Report the incident - File a report with animal control and/or police
3. Document everything - Take photos of injuries, the location, and the dog if possible
4. Get owner information - Obtain the dog owner's name, contact, and insurance details
5. Gather witness information - Collect names and contact details of anyone who saw the attack
6. Keep all medical records - Save documentation of treatment and expenses
7. Contact an attorney - Get legal guidance to protect your rights

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Tennessee dog bite victims may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, therapy)
• Future medical costs
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and trauma counseling
• Scarring and disfigurement damages
• Property damage (torn clothing, broken items)

The amount of compensation depends on the severity of injuries and your ability to prove the owner's liability.

Time Limits for Filing a Dog Bite Claim

In Tennessee, you have one year from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. This shorter statute of limitations makes it crucial to:

• Act quickly to preserve evidence
• Document injuries properly
• Locate witnesses
• Meet insurance deadlines

Don't wait to seek legal help - early action is essential given Tennessee's short filing deadline.

Defenses Dog Owners May Use

Dog owners in Tennessee may argue:

• They had no knowledge of the dog's dangerous tendencies
• You were trespassing on private property
• You provoked the dog
• You assumed the risk (veterinarians, dog trainers)
• The dog was protecting the owner's property

An experienced Tennessee attorney can help counter these defenses and build a strong case for liability.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee Dog Bite Claims

Does Tennessee have strict liability for dog bites?

No, Tennessee follows a modified one-bite rule. Owners are typically liable only if they knew or should have known their dog was dangerous or if they were negligent.

What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?

In Tennessee, owners may not be liable for a first bite unless they knew the dog was dangerous or were negligent. However, other aggressive behavior or violation of leash laws can still establish liability.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Tennessee?

Tennessee has a one-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites. It's crucial to act quickly to protect your rights.

What if the dog owner doesn't have insurance?

Many homeowner's and renter's insurance policies cover dog bites. If there's no insurance coverage, you may still pursue compensation from the owner's personal assets.