Nashville Dog Bite Attorneys

A dog attack can happen really fast, transforming a normal day into a traumatic event with physical and emotional consequences. Beyond the pain and fear, victims face medical bills and psychological trauma that can affect their quality of life for years. If you’ve been injured by someone else’s dog in Nashville, you need experienced legal representation who understands the legal and medical aspects of your case.

The Nashville dog bite attorneys at the Law Offices of Luvell L. Glanton bring a combination of legal experience and medical expertise to every case. With over 35 years in personal injury law and the advantage of having Dr. Luvell Glanton Jr.’s medical background, we understand the legal complexities of Tennessee’s dog bite laws and the full implications of your injuries.

Our attorneys have years of experience holding negligent dog owners accountable. We fight for compensation that addresses both your immediate needs and long-term estimates. Contact us today for a free consultation today.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, Tennessee law allows you to seek compensation from the responsible parties through a dog bite lawsuit.

Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency room visits, surgeries, medication, wound treatment, rabies shots, and future medical care related to your injuries.

Lost Wages: Compensation for time away from work during recovery.

Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the attack, including PTSD and anxiety.

Scarring and Disfigurement: Additional compensation for permanent scarring or disfigurement, especially for visible injuries to the face, neck, or hands.

Dog Bite Laws in Tennessee

Tennessee’s Dog Bite Liability Statute

Tennessee Code Annotated § 44-8-413 holds dog owners responsible for injuries their pets cause. The law applies to dog bites occurring in public places and on private property where the victim is lawfully present.

Dog owners face liability for any injuries their dogs cause, regardless of whether the animal has shown previous aggression. However, the law includes exceptions that may reduce or eliminate an owner’s liability in certain situations, such as when the victim was trespassing or provoked the dog.

Strict Liability vs. One-Bite Rule

Tennessee uses a mixed approach to dog bite liability that depends on where the bite occurred. In public places or when lawfully on someone else’s property, strict liability applies—meaning the dog owner is responsible regardless of whether they knew their dog was dangerous.

However, if the bite happens on the owner’s property, “one-bite rule” elements come into play, requiring you to demonstrate the owner knew or should have known about their dog’s dangerous tendencies.

This creates a more complex legal landscape that demands experienced legal representation. Residential property owners can also limit liability by posting visible “Beware of Dog” signs in some circumstances.

Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims

Time is critical in dog bite cases. Tennessee law gives victims just one year from the date of the attack to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to pursue compensation permanently. Our Tennessee dog bite lawyers work quickly to investigate your case, gather evidence, and file necessary paperwork within this limited timeframe to protect your right to compensation.

Common Injuries from Dog Bites

Physical Injuries

Dog attacks can cause go from minor wounds to life-threatening injuries. Puncture wounds and lacerations often require stitches and can leave permanent scars. Powerful dog breeds can exert enough jaw pressure to break bones, particularly with children and elderly victims being especially vulnerable. Facial injuries may damage eyes, ears, nose, and lips, potentially requiring reconstructive surgery.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

The impact of a dog attack extends beyond physical wounds. Many victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder. Developing an intense fear of dogs and the trauma and stress of recovery often trigger depression and anxiety disorders. Victims with visible scars may become self-conscious and withdraw from social situations, significantly affecting their quality of life and relationships.

Long-Term Medical Treatment

Many dog bite victims require ongoing medical care after initial emergency treatment. Multiple reconstructive surgeries may be needed to address scarring and restore function, especially for facial injuries. Rehabilitation through physical therapy helps restore strength and mobility after serious bites involving nerve or tendon damage.

Contact Our Nashville Dog Bite Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries from a dog attack, don’t face it alone. The experienced Nashville dog bite attorneys at the Law Offices of Luvell L. Glanton understand both the legal complexities and medical implications of your case.

Dog bite claims involve Tennessee laws, insurance company negotiations, and documentation of both current and future damages. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Cases

What makes Tennessee’s dog bite law different from other states?

Tennessee’s dog bite law uses a mixed approach that depends on where the bite occurred. On public property, strict liability applies, meaning the dog owner is responsible regardless of whether they knew their dog was dangerous. However, on noncommercial property owned by the dog owner, you may need to prove the owner knew the dog had a propensity to bite people or show aggressive behavior. This makes dog bite cases in Tennessee more complex than in exclusive strict liability states.

How do I prove the dog’s owner knew their pet was dangerous?

To establish that a dog’s owner knew about their pet’s dangerous tendencies, we investigate the dog’s history of biting or aggressive behavior. This might include previous bite incidents, complaints from neighbors, or evidence the dog was typically kept restrained due to aggression. In some cases, the breed or size of the dog, combined with inadequate restraint, can help establish that the owner should have maintained reasonable control of their animal. Our Nashville dog bite attorneys have extensive experience gathering this crucial evidence.

How do insurance companies handle dog bite lawsuits?

Most dog bite lawsuits involve dealing with the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. The insurance company typically tries to minimize payouts by questioning liability or the extent of injuries. They may claim the injured person was trespassing or that the dog’s propensity for aggression wasn’t known. Having a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer means having someone who understands these tactics and can negotiate on your behalf while preparing to present your case in court if necessary.

Do property owners have a legal duty to protect visitors from dogs?

Yes, property owners have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to protect lawful visitors from dangerous dogs on their premises. This applies even if they don’t own the dog themselves but allow it on their property.