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While dogs can make great companions, they are not always safe to be around because they can attack and seriously harm people. Sadly, some people even lose their lives in severe dog attacks.
If your beloved family member died after a dog attack, your family is likely facing a great deal of sadness and uncertainty. Learning to face life without your loved one’s emotional and financial support can be challenging. Fortunately, a compassionate Memphis fatal dog bite lawyer could help you pursue the financial compensation you need to rebuild your family’s life. You can reach out to our dog bite attorneys today to discuss your case.
State laws take a unique approach to dog bites, as explained in Tennessee Code Annotated § 44-8-413. While some states take either a strict liability or a one-bite rule approach to dog bite situations, Tennessee courts use a divided approach that depends on exactly where the canine attack occurs and whether the injured or deceased party had the legal right to be there.
If the dog attack occurred on public property, such as on a public street or in a public park, the dog’s owner would be strictly liable for the cost of any losses the dog bite victim or their grieving family members suffer. Similarly, if the dog bite occurred while the victim was lawfully on someone else’s private property, the dog’s owner would be strictly liable.
In situations where strict liability applies, the dog’s owner would be legally responsible for the cost of the victim’s losses, and the victim would not have to prove that the owner knew or should have known of the dog’s dangerous propensities.
If the dog attack occurs on the dog owner’s property, the one-bite rule would apply.
When the one-bite rule applies in a fatal dog bite incident, the surviving family members of the deceased victim would need to prove that the owner knew or should have known about the dog’s aggressive tendencies. Generally, they would have to establish that the dog had previously bitten or acted aggressively towards someone else.
Our seasoned Memphis attorneys have successfully handled all types of claims relating to dog bite fatalities. Regardless of whether a case involves the one-bite rule or strict liability, we know how to build strong claims for compensation.
In the case of a death resulting from a dog attack, the surviving family members of the deceased victim could sue the dog’s owner for the losses they suffered as a result of their loved one’s untimely death. You could potentially pursue several different types of compensation, including the following:
Only certain parties are eligible to pursue compensation under a wrongful death lawsuit. Generally, the surviving spouse, children, or next of kin can file a lawsuit, and they must do so within one year of the deceased person’s death. Our caring Memphis attorneys are extensively familiar with the claims process following a fatal dog bite and could guide you through it.
If you recently lost your loved one in a fatal dog attack, you might not know where to turn for help. A Memphis fatal dog bite lawyer could compassionately and confidently guide you through the legal process.
Call our experienced team today to learn how we could fight for justice and help your family get through this terrible time.
(901) 526-2126