Dog Bites & Animal Attacks in Indiana
Fishers Dog Bite Attorneys: (317) 434-1490
In many American households, a dog isn’t just a cuddly bundle of joy, but an important member of the family. However, not all dogs are friendly – especially to strangers – and are known to attack humans. Fortunately, Indiana residents can pursue compensatory damages if they’ve been injured by a domesticated animal.
If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog, contact the Fishers dog bite lawyers at Massillamany Jeter & Carson LLP. Sadly, most victims of dog bites and animal attacks are young children who can’t resist a fluffy face. These children tend to sustain both physical and psychological damage after an incident. Our legal team is here to help victims recover the compensation they need to make a full physical, emotional, and psychological recovery after any type of unexpected animal attack.
Contact Massillamany Jeter & Carson LLP at (317) 434-1490 to explore your legal options.
Indiana’s One Bite Rule
Most dogs are wonderful companions and protectors that enrich our lives. However, sometimes a pup’s personality, breed, or background can make it a threat to innocent people. Pet owners have a legal obligation to train and/or confine their dogs in a manner that safeguards the pubic from deadly attacks.
At the same time, Indiana is one of the few states in the country that supports and abides by the “one bite rule.” Under this regulation, an owner is only liable if their dog displayed aggressive behaviors in the past. In this circumstance, the injured party’s legal team needs to prove that the owner knew – or should have been aware – of the animal’s propensity for violence.
A victim can circumvent the one bite rule under Indiana statute 15-20-1-3. However, this law only applies if the victim:
- Was acting peaceably when attacked
- Did not provoke the dog
- Was carrying out a legal duty imposed by state or federal law
A victim can recover both economic and non-economic damages in a successful lawsuit. These damages are meant to provide for a survivor’s medical bills, pain and suffering, ongoing rehabilitative services, and more. In certain cases, a victim can also hold a business or facility liable for their injuries.
Schedule a Consultation Today
In Indiana, a plaintiff has two years to file a personal injury claim that’s associated with an animal attack. Before this deadline runs out, contact the Fishers personal injury lawyers at Massillamany Jeter & Carson LLP. Our legal team can inform you of your rights and guide you through this multifaceted process from start to finish.
Contact Massillamany Jeter & Carson LLPat (317) 434-1490 to schedule a consultation today.