Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional harm. If a dog bites you in Tennessee, you may wonder if you can pursue compensation for your injuries. The short answer is yes, but Tennessee law has specific rules that affect your ability to claim personal injury for a dog bite.
Understanding Tennessee’s dog bite law
Tennessee follows the “one-bite rule.” This rule holds dog owners responsible if their dog has previously shown aggression. If a dog has bitten someone before, the owner is usually liable for any future injuries caused by the dog. However, if it’s the dog’s first bite, proving liability may be harder unless you can show the owner was negligent in controlling or restraining the dog.
How negligence affects your dog bite case
In many personal injury claims, proving negligence is key. In dog bite cases, negligence might involve showing that the owner failed to control or restrain the dog. For example, if the dog was off-leash in a public space or the owner didn’t secure the dog with a fence, the owner might be responsible for the bite. Even without a history of aggressive behavior, the owner may still face liability if they were careless.
What damages can you claim in a dog bite case?
If a dog bites you in Tennessee, you may receive compensation for several types of damages. You can claim medical expenses, lost wages from missing work, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. If the bite causes permanent scarring or disfigurement, the court may award additional compensation for long-term effects.
What to do after a dog bite
Get medical treatment right away after a dog bite. This ensures you receive the necessary care and helps document the injury for future claims. Report the bite to local authorities, as this may help establish the dog’s behavior history, which could strengthen your case.
Understanding Tennessee’s laws and how negligence plays a role is important for making a successful dog bite claim.
