Dog bites can leave victims with painful injuries, emotional trauma, and lasting scars. Whether it’s a bite from a neighbor’s dog or a loose animal at a public park, you shouldn’t have to bear the burden of medical bills and missed work alone. At The Vance Law Firm Injury Lawyers, we help dog bite victims in Montgomery and throughout Alabama get the compensation they deserve.
Alabama law holds dog owners responsible when their pets hurt others. You may be entitled to compensation, even if the dog had never shown signs of aggression before the attack.
Alabama Dog Bite Law: What You Should Know
Montgomery follows Alabama’s “strict liability” rule regarding dog bites. That means the owner can be held accountable if their dog bites someone without provocation, especially if the bite happens on the owner’s property or if the dog roams without a leash.
Canine-friendly places in Montgomery such as dog parks have established their own rules and regulations to help prevent dog bites as well. Some of these rules include:
- Handlers must have immediate access to their dog’s leash
- No more than three dogs per handler at a time
- Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult
- All dog and human food is expressly prohibited
But even when rules are respected and proper safety precautions are followed, dog bite incidents can still occur. These cases can become complicated, especially if the owner tries to blame you for the attack. That’s why it’s important to have experienced legal representation to fight against these tactics.
Common Dog Bite Complications
Dog bites are more than just surface wounds. They can lead to serious complications and worse, as was the case for a recent tragic dog attack in Lee County that led to the death of a 78-year-old woman.
Some of the most common medical issues after a dog attack include:
- Infections, including MRSA, tetanus, or rabies
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Nerve or muscle damage
- Emotional trauma and PTSD
- Loss of function in hands, arms, or legs
- Bone fractures, especially in children or elderly victims
These complications can affect your ability to work, move comfortably, and live your life as you did before the attack.
What Medical Treatments Are Often Required After Dog Bites?
Depending on the severity of the injury, dog bite victims may require a range of treatments, including:
- Emergency room care for bleeding, broken bones, or shock
- Wound cleaning and stitching
- Tetanus or rabies vaccinations
- Antibiotics or IV medication to prevent infection
- Plastic or reconstructive surgery
- Physical therapy for mobility or nerve damage
- Mental health counseling to address anxiety or trauma
Even what seems like a minor bite or scratch can escalate into a major medical issue, according to the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH). That’s why it’s important to approach every dog with caution, and to seek medical attention and legal guidance immediately if you’ve been injured by one.
Where to Seek Medical Treatment for a Dog Bite Injury in Montgomery
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s crucial to seek medical care right away. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may need emergency treatment or to be evaluated at an urgent care center. Remember: Even dog bite injuries that seem minor can lead to infections, nerve damage, or other serious complications, so it’s important to be seen by a doctor.
For both serious and less severe injuries caused by a dog bite, some of the most trusted medical facilities in Montgomery include:
- Jackson Hospital and Medical Center
- Baptist Medical Center South
- PriMed Eastchase Urgent Care
Getting medical attention is the first and most important step after a dog bite, but it’s not the only one. Once you’ve been treated, it’s wise to speak with an experienced Montgomery lawyer. At The Vance Law Firm Injury Lawyers, our skilled dog bite accident attorneys can help you fight for compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What Compensation Is Available for Dog Bite Victims in Montgomery?
The costs associated with a single dog bite can be enormous, and health insurance may not cover them all. Because dogs have such sharp and long teeth, and because infections are common, many victims suffer from complications from their injuries for years—and that means ongoing expenses.
When we build claims for injured dog bite victims, we work hard to ensure they get compensation for all the ways they’ve been affected, including:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages during recovery
- Potential loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress or trauma
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Out-of-pocket expenses like transportation to medical appointments or childcare during recovery
Every case is different, and we’ll work closely with you to calculate the full extent of your losses and pursue the maximum amount you’re owed.
We Handle All Aspects of Dog Bite Cases
Dog bites are painful and overwhelming. But despite their severe injuries, many dog bite victims feel uneasy pursuing claims against the owners of the dogs that bit them. At The Vance Law Firm, we understand the sensitive nature of these cases.
When you contact us, we take each of these steps with compassion and care:
- Investigate the circumstances of the attack
- Gather medical records and witness statements
- Prove the dog owner’s responsibility
- Handle communication with the insurance company
- Fight to get you full compensation for your injuries
It’s our goal to give you peace of mind throughout every step of the legal process.
Contact Our Montgomery Injury Lawyers Today
We’ve seen firsthand how traumatic and life-altering dog attacks can be. You deserve a team that treats your case with the care and urgency it deserves. Let the injury lawyers at The Vance Law Firm Injury Lawyers take on the legal fight while you focus on getting better.
Call us today or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation—and get started on your path to full compensation.
