A: A dog bite may qualify for compensation if it results in medical treatment, scarring, or lasting harm. Even moderate bites requiring stitches can justify a claim. In Arkansas, owners may be responsible if they acted negligently or knew their dog was aggressive. Severe bites leading to nerve damage or infections may increase potential compensation.
Pine Bluff Dog Bite Lawyer
Pine Bluff Dog Bite Attorney
With plentiful dog parks at Irene Holcomb Bark Park and Pine Bluff Regional Park, Pine Bluff is truly dog-friendly. While most canines go their entire lives without attacking someone, a dog bite can cause serious bodily injury that leaves victims with emotional scars and financial hardships. A Pine Bluff dog bite lawyer can guide you toward fair compensation by negotiating with the dog owner for a settlement or taking the case straight to court
A Personal Injury Attorney Who Gets Results
Finding a personal injury lawyer who treats you as a person and not a number can be challenging. The Law Office of Geoffrey D. Kearney, PLLC, has deep Arkansas roots. Founded by a second-generation Arkansas attorney, our law firm is dedicated to helping Pine Bluff residents receive the compensation and justice that they are owed.
Our legal team proudly maintains memberships with the American Association for Justice, American Bar Association, Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association, and other prominent legal groups. We understand how life-altering a dog bite can be, and we can hold the dog owner accountable for the harm their pet caused you.
Pine Bluff Dog Bite Lawyer
Call Law Office of Geoffrey D. Kearney, PLLC today at 870-376-3068 for your Free Consultation!
Understanding Arkansas’ Dog Bite Laws
Whether you live in neighborhoods like Watson Chapel, Pinebergen, or South Pine Bluff, the same statewide laws apply to dog bites. Arkansas follows a “one-bite rule” which means that a dog owner can only be held liable if they knew or should have known that their dog is dangerous. In practice, this often means that there was a previous attack.
Local leash laws and negligence claims can also affect liability. If a dog owner violates leash requirements or allows a dog to run loose, they may be held accountable for injuries caused by an attack. The city of Pine Bluff has a vicious dog law, Sec. 5-27, that could form the basis of legal action.
In a study conducted to track dog bites across the state, the report found that, on average, 37% of dog bites require medical intervention. Anyone bitten by a dog should seek immediate medical attention at nearby hospitals like Jefferson Regional Medical Center. Any animal bite could quickly lead to an infection or other medical complications that could become life-threatening.
What Can I Be Compensated for Following a Dog Bite?
With the help of a dog bite attorney, you can be compensated for a wide range of damages. Settlements can lead to compensation for medical bills. If the case goes to court, a personal injury claim could seek non-economic damages for pain and suffering and emotional distress. Serious bites may require follow-up surgeries and physical therapy. If the attack leaves emotional scars, psychological treatments can be factored into compensation.
Whether your dog attack happened in neighborhoods like Broadmoor, Watson Chapel, or Pinebergen, you can work with an attorney to gather evidence to establish liability. It is not uncommon for defendants to allege that the dog attack was provoked. Having witness statements and other forms of evidence can ensure that you are not falsely blamed for causing the injury.
Why Legal Representation Is Critical for Securing Compensation
In February 2025, a woman was attacked by multiple dogs in Phillips County. She barely survived the attack. Dog attacks are an unfortunate reality of life in Arkansas. When someone’s dogs cause serious bodily harm, hiring an attorney can be a smart first move.
Experienced personal injury lawyers understand the state’s complicated one-bite rule. They can research whether local laws were broken, which could establish liability. Once the negligent party is identified, an attorney can file an injury claim in court seeking compensation for the financial harm and emotional distress you suffered.
An attorney can calculate the cost of injuries, which can include economic and non-economic damages, and help you fight any false allegations that you contributed to the dog attack. Lawyers are also skilled negotiators who can discuss settlements with homeowner’s insurance carriers or the negligent party’s attorney.
FAQs
Q: What Is the Law on Dog Bites in Arkansas?
A: Arkansas does not have a strict liability law, meaning victims must show negligence or prior aggression to hold an owner responsible. Some cities, like Pine Bluff, enforce local ordinances regarding dangerous dogs. Cases often depend on witness statements, past complaints, and evidence of owner negligence, such as failure to leash or secure a known aggressive dog.
Q: How Much Compensation Can I Receive for a Dog Bite?
A: Compensation depends on medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. More severe injuries, such as deep wounds, infections, or permanent scarring, typically result in higher settlements. Arkansas law evaluates the extent of harm and the owner’s responsibility when determining damages. Proper documentation of medical treatment and long-term impact strengthens a claim for compensation.
Q: What Proof Is Needed for a Dog Bite Claim?
A: Important evidence in a dog bite claim includes medical records, photos of injuries, witness statements, and proof of the owner’s negligence. If a dog had a history of aggression or was unleashed in a public place, that may strengthen your case. Reports from animal control or law enforcement can also help establish responsibility. Documentation of medical treatment for the bite and emotional impact can also be important evidence.
Schedule Your Dog Bite Consultation Today
At the Law Office of Geoffrey D. Kearney, PLLC, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a dog attack can take. After a serious injury, pursuing compensation can seem like one more challenging ordeal. We can handle the difficult work of securing compensation while you focus on recovering.
Our firm takes pride in being an unwavering advocate for our clients. We won’t rest until you receive what you are owed. Along the way, we’ll answer your questions and let you know what to expect as your case moves forward. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.
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