What to Know About If You Are Bit by a Dog
Every year, millions of people are bitten by a dog in the United States; hundreds of thousands of those bites are serious enough to require medical attention. These injuries can cause significant expenses for a victim in terms of medical bills and lost wages. So, who’s liable for damages in this situation?
At Richard Schwartz & Associates, P.A., our lawyers represent individuals who have been seriously injured as a result of a dog bite. We will help you determine whether you have a valid claim for damages and who can be held liable. If you sustained a dog bite injury in Mississippi, contact our office to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
Understanding Mississippi’s Dog Bite Laws
Each year millions of people are bit by dogs throughout the U.S. From 2011 to 2021, the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) reported 468 deaths related to dog bites or attacks. Due to the prevalence of dog bite injuries many states have enacted statutes or follow common law related to dog bite liability.
Mississippi follows an older law regarding dog bites known as the “one free bite” rule. This law allows owners to assume their dogs are harmless unless shown otherwise. Therefore, only a dog’s first bite may prove the animal is a threat to others. It is after this point that the owner must take responsibility to control their pet so it does not harm anyone else.
However, pet owners must take some accountability. If they observe warning signs in their dog, such as growling, snarling, or snapping, they are expected to make the conclusion that their dog may pose a risk to others and take measures to prevent their dog from harming anyone (even if the dog has not bitten anyone yet).
What to Do After a Dog Bite
If you have been bitten by a dog, it’s important to administer first aid if the wound is superficial. If the wound is more serious, seek medical treatment. You may receive antibiotic cream or undergo rabies testing.
Once you have been treated, contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Mississippi’s dog bite laws are complicated and require the advice of seasoned legal professionals to determine whether you have a claim. It’s important to note the statute of limitations (Miss. Code Ann. § 15-1-49) for a dog bite injury is three years in most cases. So, do not hesitate to call our firm for a free consultation right away.
Contact Our Office for More
If you suffered a dog bite injury, contact our office to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Our lawyers will help to protect your rights and fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve after a dog attack.
Do not wait until it is too late. Call now to get started. We have recovered over $1 billion on behalf of our clients and will continue to work tirelessly for you and your family. With over 40 years of experience, we know what it takes to win.
