Dog Bites

A dog attack can be sudden, terrifying, and life-changing. Whether it occurs in a park, neighborhood, or someone’s backyard, the physical and emotional injuries often last far beyond the initial bite. Victims frequently suffer puncture wounds, nerve damage, infection, scarring, and trauma that affects their ability to return to everyday life. In many cases, medical bills pile up while the responsible party’s insurance company denies liability or delays a fair settlement.

A dog bite lawyer can help you assert your rights and hold negligent dog owners accountable. Legal representation gives you the ability to document injuries properly, pursue insurance coverage, and receive compensation for both economic and non-economic losses. Attorneys also understand the specific statutes that govern animal control and liability in Kentucky, helping to prevent legal missteps that could reduce or block recovery.

At Todd & Todd, we help dog bite victims throughout Lexington and Central Kentucky seek justice after these dangerous and avoidable incidents. Our firm provides hands-on, compassionate service and boasts a strong track record of successful results in personal injury claims. When you work with us, you receive direct communication, strategic case preparation, and legal support throughout the entire process.

Understanding Dog Bite Laws in Kentucky

Kentucky law imposes strict liability on dog owners when their animal causes injury to another person. Unlike other states that may require proof of prior aggression or negligence, Kentucky allows victims to pursue compensation even if the dog had no history of biting. This means the owner is responsible simply because the dog caused harm.

However, strict liability does not mean the process is easy. Insurance companies may still argue that the victim provoked the animal, was trespassing, or assumed the risk of injury. These arguments can weaken a claim without the guidance of a knowledgeable dog bite attorney who knows how to respond to such tactics.

Typical scenarios where dog bites occur include:

• Attacks during neighborhood walks or jogs.
• Children bitten while playing near a loose dog.
• Delivery drivers or mail carriers are injured while on duty.
• Bites occurring at a friend’s or relative’s home.

Many victims hesitate to file a claim because the dog belongs to someone they know and trust. It is essential to understand that most claims are typically paid through homeowners’ or renters’ insurance, rather than out of pocket. Pursuing legal action does not necessarily mean targeting the dog owner personally; instead, it involves seeking compensation from the appropriate insurer.

Common Dog Bite Injuries and Long-Term Effects

Dog bites can result in a wide range of injuries, from surface punctures to permanent disfigurement. Some of the most serious outcomes include:

• Deep tissue damage affecting nerves or tendons.
• Infections such as cellulitis or rabies.
• Facial wounds requiring reconstructive surgery.
• Psychological trauma, particularly in children.
• Scarring and loss of function in limbs or hands.

Medical treatment is often only the beginning. Victims may need physical therapy, mental health support, or cosmetic surgery to recover fully. These long-term effects can impact one’s job, mobility, self-esteem, and quality of life.

At Todd & Todd, we understand how overwhelming this experience can be. That is why we carefully track medical records, work with healthcare experts, and fight to ensure that all current and future costs are taken into account. Our goal is to help clients rebuild after a serious injury while easing the legal burden.

What You Can Recover in a Dog Bite Case

If you have been attacked by a dog in Kentucky, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency room care, follow-up visits, and medications.
• Surgeries and rehabilitation.
• Lost wages from time off work.
• Pain and suffering.
• Emotional distress.
• Scarring or permanent disfigurement.

We pursue full and fair compensation for every client. Each case begins with a detailed evaluation of your injuries, financial impact, and the circumstances surrounding the attack. Our attorneys will handle communications with insurers and opposing counsel, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Whether the case is resolved through settlement or litigation, we stand by our clients with strong legal advocacy and consistent communication.

How Our Firm Handles Dog Bite Cases

When you contact our office, we start by listening. We want to understand precisely what happened, when, where, and how the injuries have affected you or your child. We then begin gathering evidence, which may include photos, medical records, witness statements, and reports from animal control or law enforcement.

Because dog bite cases often involve complex liability issues and emotionally charged situations, our approach is measured and strategic. We communicate clearly with clients at every stage and prepare each case as if it could go to trial.

Our attorneys handle each file personally, not through case managers or outside contractors. This hands-on approach ensures your concerns are addressed and that your case receives the attention it deserves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to prove the dog had bitten someone before?

No. Kentucky’s strict liability law does not require proof of a prior bite or aggression. The owner is liable even if the dog had never shown signs of being dangerous.

What if the dog belonged to a friend or family member?

You can still pursue a claim. Most dog bite claims are paid through insurance policies, not directly by the dog’s owner. Filing a claim does not mean taking personal legal action against someone you know.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Kentucky?

In most cases, you have one year from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. It is best to consult a dog bite attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence and begin the process.

Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Kentucky follows comparative fault rules. If you were partly responsible, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, you can still recover damages with the help of a dog bite lawyer who knows how to challenge these claims.

What should I do immediately after a dog bite?

Seek medical attention, report the incident to local animal control, document your injuries, and collect any available witness information. Then, reach out to a qualified legal professional to discuss your options.

Talk to a Dog Bite Lawyer in Lexington Today

Being attacked by a dog is not just painful. It is traumatic, costly, and often avoidable. Whether the bite happened in your neighborhood, at a park, or during your workday, you should not be left handling the consequences on your own.

At Todd & Todd, we know what it takes to hold negligent dog owners and insurers accountable. We bring decades of experience handling injury cases across Central Kentucky, with a commitment to clear communication and real results.

Let us help you take the next step toward recovery. Contact us today to speak with a member of our team and schedule a consultation.