Covington Dog Bite Lawyers
Dog bite incidents can be traumatic, leaving both physical and emotional scars. At Talley Anthony Hughes & Knight, our century-long legacy of legal advocacy equips us to help individuals and families affected by these injuries. Since our founding in 1914, we have prioritized strategic, client-focused representation, so that you feel supported every step of the way. The lawyers in our Covington office are skilled at everything from investigation to negotiation to litigation.
Call (985) 313-8146 or use our online contact form to get a free consultation. We can meet in person or virtually, whichever you prefer.
Dog Bite Liability Law in Louisiana
Louisiana’s dog bite laws operate under a “limited strict liability” framework. This means that dog owners are generally liable if their dogs bite someone.
However, per Louisiana Civil Code Article 2321, certain criteria must be met:
- The owner must have known, or be reasonably expected to have known, that their dog had dangerous tendencies.
- The owner must have failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent the bite or attack.
For example, if a dog has a history of biting or growling at strangers and the owner fails to secure the dog appropriately, they may be held accountable if someone gets injured.
When a dog bite occurs without any prior indication of aggression, responsibility becomes more complex. This distinction adds a layer of challenge to dog bite cases, emphasizing the importance of having experienced legal counsel by your side.
Exceptions to Liability
There are circumstances where dog owners may not be found liable, even if their dog bites someone. For instance:
- Trespassing: If the injured party was unlawfully on the dog owner’s property, it may be difficult to hold the owner accountable.
- Provocation: If the victim provoked the dog, such as by teasing or threatening it, the owner may not bear liability for the resulting injuries.
- Playfulness: Some dogs are rambunctious without meaning harm, and it’s possible that this could cause accidents.
Our team at Talley Anthony Hughes & Knight has extensive experience navigating these nuances, evaluating our clients’ cases thoroughly, and seeking to build compelling arguments on their behalf.
Deep Roots. Fierce Advocacy. Generations of Justice In Your Corner
100 Years Strong. Still Fighting for You.
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Over a Century of ExperienceWith 100+ years serving Southeast Louisiana, our history speaks volumes. We’ve handled thousands of cases and earned the trust of generations.
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Trial-Ready Representation
We’re not afraid of the courtroom. As seasoned trial lawyers, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial—because that’s how real results happen.
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Relatable, Local Attorneys
We’re Louisiana born and raised. We understand the people, the culture, and the challenges our clients face—because we live them too.
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Full-Service with a Personal Touch
From complex litigation to local legal needs, we offer big-firm skill with small-firm care. If we can’t help, we’ll find someone who can.
Gathering Evidence to Build Your Case
To help prove your case, our attorneys focus on gathering a wide range of evidence, including:
- Witness statements: Testimonies from neighbors, passersby, or others with knowledge of the dog’s behavior can establish its history of aggression.
- Veterinary records: These can provide insights into whether the dog has been involved in prior incidents or has a documented record of aggression.
- Photographs and videos: Capturing the injuries immediately after the attack can substantiate claims of physical harm.
- Medical records: Detailed documentation of medical treatment helps illustrate the extent of your injuries and any ongoing care needs.
At Talley Anthony Hughes & Knight, we use these, and other resources to create a comprehensive narrative of your case, giving a strong foundation for pursuing compensation.
