Tennessee Dog Bite Lawyers
Dog attacks can be sudden, painful, and emotionally traumatic. Even a single bite can leave lasting scars and medical complications. At Fox, Farley, Willis & Burnette, we represent victims of dog bites and animal attacks throughout the state. As experienced Tennessee dog bite lawyer advocates, we help injured individuals and families recover compensation for medical care, emotional trauma, and long-term suffering caused by irresponsible pet owners.
Understanding Dog Bite Liability in Tennessee
Tennessee law provides protections for victims of dog attacks through both statutory and common law. In most cases, a dog owner can be held liable if their dog injures someone in a public place or lawfully on private property. This is true even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression before. The state’s “strict liability” rule applies when the owner fails to control their animal, allowing the victim to pursue damages without having to prove negligence.
Our attorneys handle cases involving:
- Dog attacks in neighborhoods, parks, or public areas
- Injuries caused by dogs running loose or off-leash
- Bites occurring on business or residential property
- Attacks on postal workers, delivery drivers, and children
- Injuries from large or aggressive breeds
- Cases involving repeat incidents or ignored warnings
We carefully evaluate the facts to determine which laws apply and how best to pursue compensation.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Tennessee
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s important to act quickly to protect both your health and your legal rights.
- Seek medical attention immediately to prevent infection and document your injuries.
- Report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement.
- Obtain contact information for the dog’s owner and any witnesses.
- Take photographs of your injuries and the scene.
- Contact our firm as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
We take immediate action to gather evidence, identify the responsible parties, and preserve your claim.
Common Injuries Caused by Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause a range of injuries, from puncture wounds to severe, life-altering trauma. Victims often suffer deep lacerations, nerve damage, infections, broken bones, and permanent scarring. In some cases, children or elderly victims may face disfigurement or emotional trauma lasting for years. Our attorneys work closely with doctors and specialists to understand the full scope of your injuries, including psychological harm such as post-traumatic stress and anxiety around animals. This thorough evaluation allows us to pursue full compensation for all of your damages.
Compensation Available to Dog Bite Victims
Under Tennessee law, you may be entitled to financial compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial harm caused by a dog attack. Depending on the case, damages may include:
- Medical treatment, surgery, and hospitalization costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning ability
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Scarring or disfigurement compensation
- Costs of future medical or cosmetic procedures
- Wrongful death damages in fatal attacks
We work diligently to ensure your claim includes all current and future expenses related to the incident.
Proving Liability in a Dog Bite Case
Establishing liability in a Tennessee dog bite case requires a thorough understanding of both local ordinances and state statutes. Our firm investigates where and how the attack occurred, reviews veterinary and animal control records, interviews witnesses, and examines any prior complaints involving the dog. In some cases, landlords or property owners may also share responsibility for failing to address known dangers. We present a clear, evidence-based case designed to secure the maximum compensation available.
Why Choose Fox, Farley, Willis & Burnette
Choosing the right Tennessee injury lawyers is one of the most important decisions you can make after a serious dog attack. Our firm has decades of experience handling injury cases across the state, and we understand the emotional and financial challenges victims face. Clients trust us because we offer deep knowledge of Tennessee injury law, personalized attention to every case, clear and open communication, proven results in negotiation and trial, and compassionate advocacy for families rebuilding after trauma. We believe in providing strong legal guidance and genuine care to every client we serve.
Deadlines for Filing a Dog Bite Claim
In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for dog bite and personal injury cases is generally one year from the date of the attack. Failing to file within that time may result in losing your right to compensation. Our attorneys act quickly to preserve your claim, meet all deadlines, and handle communications with insurers and defendants while you focus on recovery.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies often cover dog bite claims, but insurance companies frequently attempt to minimize payouts. They may dispute the severity of your injuries or argue that you provoked the animal. Our attorneys know these tactics and use evidence, medical documentation, and expert testimony to challenge them effectively. We negotiate aggressively for fair settlements and pursue litigation when necessary to achieve justice.
Tennessee Dog Bite FAQs
How long do I have to file a claim?
You generally have one year from the date of the attack to file a claim in Tennessee.
What if the dog’s owner says the animal never bit anyone before?
Under Tennessee law, owners can still be held liable for injuries caused by their dog even without a prior history of aggression.
Can I sue if the bite happened on private property?
Yes, as long as you were lawfully on the property when the attack occurred.
What if the dog belongs to a friend or family member?
You can still pursue a claim against their insurance policy. These cases focus on compensation, not personal blame.
Do I have to prove negligence?
Not always. Tennessee’s strict liability rule applies in most cases where the dog was not properly restrained or controlled.
Can I recover damages for emotional trauma?
Yes. Emotional distress, anxiety, and lasting fear of animals are compensable injuries.
What if a child was bitten?
Children often suffer severe physical and emotional harm. Our firm ensures that settlements account for future medical and psychological needs.
Serving Clients Across Tennessee
- Clinton
- Gatlinburg
- Knoxville
- LaFollette
- Maryville
- Pigeon Forge
- Sevierville
- Nashville
- Chattanooga
- Oak Ridge
- Memphis
- Kingsport
- Johnson City
Contact Our Tennessee Dog Bite Lawyers
If you or your child has been injured in a dog attack, you deserve justice and accountability. At Fox, Farley, Willis & Burnette, we help dog bite victims across Tennessee recover the compensation they need to heal and move forward. Contact us today for a free consultation with a trusted Tennessee dog bite attorney who will protect your rights and fight for your recovery every step of the way.