A dog bite or animal attack can be a traumatic and painful experience. Whether you were bitten by a neighbor’s dog, a stray animal, or even a pet you were familiar with, you may be left with serious injuries, medical expenses, and emotional distress. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite in Auburn, Opelika, Lee County, or surrounding areas, it’s important to understand your legal rights and the steps to take immediately after an attack.
At Walton Law Firm, P.C., we have successfully handled many dog bite and animal attack cases over the years. Our experienced attorneys know how to navigate Alabama’s dog bite laws, fight against insurance companies, and ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
What to Do After a Dog Bite or Animal Attack
If you are bitten or attacked by a dog or another animal, taking the right steps can protect both your health and your legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even minor bites can lead to serious infections or rabies exposure. If the wound is severe, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room. Documentation of your injuries is also crucial if you need to file a legal claim.
- Identify the Dog and Its Owner
If possible, get the name, address, and contact information of the dog’s owner. Also, ask about the dog’s vaccination records, particularly for rabies.
- Report the Attack to Animal Control or Law Enforcement
In Auburn, Opelika, and Lee County, dog bites should be reported to local animal control or law enforcement. This ensures the attack is officially documented and may help prevent future incidents.
- Take Photos and Gather Evidence
Photograph your injuries, torn clothing, the location of the attack, and the dog involved. If anyone witnessed the attack, get their contact information, as their testimony may be helpful later.
- Avoid Speaking to the Insurance Company Without Legal Representation
The dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance may be responsible for covering your medical bills and other damages. However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift the blame onto the victim. Speaking to an attorney before making any statements can protect your rights.
Alabama Dog Bite Laws: Understanding Liability and Responsibility
Alabama has strict liability laws regarding dog bites, meaning that in many cases, the dog owner can be held responsible for damages if their dog attacks someone. However, specific leash laws and liability rules vary by city and county.
- Leash Laws in Alabama
Each community in Alabama has its own leash laws. For example:
- Some cities require dogs to be leashed at all times in public areas.
- Other areas have “one bite” rules, meaning a dog owner may not be held liable unless the dog has previously bitten someone.
- Certain counties have more stringent laws regarding dangerous or vicious dogs.
- Laws Regarding Vicious or Dangerous Dogs
If a dog has a history of aggression, stricter laws may apply. In Alabama:
- If a dog has previously bitten or attacked someone, the owner can be held fully liable for future attacks.
- If the owner knew the dog was dangerous and did not take proper precautions, they could face negligence claims.
- Some municipalities have breed-specific laws or requirements for securing dogs with aggressive tendencies.
Ready to discuss your case? Contact our experienced team of local alabama personal injury lawyers for your free initial case consultation*
Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Dog Bite
Many homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bite liability, but insurance companies are not on your side when it comes to getting fair compensation. They often:
- Offer low settlement amounts that don’t cover all medical bills.
- Try to claim the victim provoked the attack or was trespassing.
- Delay the claim process to pressure victims into settling for less.
At Walton Law Firm, P.C., we have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies in dog bite and animal attack cases. We negotiate aggressively to ensure victims receive full compensation for:
✅ Medical expenses (hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy)
✅ Lost wages if the injury prevents you from working
✅ Pain and suffering from emotional and physical trauma
✅ Scarring and disfigurement from severe bites or lacerations
Let Walton Law Firm, P.C. Fight for You
If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog in Auburn, Opelika, Lee County, or anywhere in East Alabama, don’t navigate the legal process alone. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Walton Law Firm, P.C. will:
✔ Investigate the dog’s history and leash law violations
✔ Handle all negotiations with the insurance company
✔ Ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries
✔ Take your case to court if necessary
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
We’ve helped numerous dog bite victims get the justice they deserve, and we’re ready to fight for you, too. If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog, contact Walton Law Firm, P.C. today for a free consultation. Let our Top local Alabama Personal Injury lawyers help you understand your rights and get the compensation you deserve.
