BOWLING GREEN DOG BITE ATTORNEY

Kentucky law follows a strict liability standard regarding dog bites. That means a dog owner can be held responsible for injuries caused by their dog, even if the dog never showed aggression before. Unlike states with a “one bite” rule, Kentucky doesn’t give owners a free pass. If their dog bites or attacks someone, they can be held liable for the damages.

Yes. If you were lawfully on public property, such as a sidewalk, park, or street, you have the right to pursue a claim. Similarly, if you were invited or allowed onto private property and were bitten, you may also be able to recover compensation. Trespassing, however, can complicate claims, so it’s important to speak with an attorney about your specific situation.

The steps you take right after a bite can impact both your health and your legal claim.

• Seek immediate medical attention. Even minor-looking bites can carry dangerous infections like rabies, MRSA, or tetanus.
• Report the attack. Contact animal control or law enforcement to ensure the dog is properly quarantined and documented.
• Document everything. Take photos of your injuries, the scene of the attack, and, if possible, the dog itself.
• Identify the owner. Get their name, address, and insurance information if available.
• Call a lawyer. An experienced Bowling Green dog bite attorney can help you preserve evidence and protect your rights.

Dog bite lawsuits must be filed within a specific statute of limitations, which sets the legal deadline. Missing this window could bar you from seeking compensation entirely. Because deadlines can vary depending on your circumstances, especially if a child is involved, it’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the attack.

No. Kentucky does not follow the one-bite rule, which is used in some other states. Instead, Kentucky law holds dog owners liable the first time their dog bites or injures someone, regardless of whether the dog had a history of aggression. This makes it easier for victims to pursue claims without needing to prove the owner already knew their dog was dangerous.

Children are especially vulnerable to serious dog bite injuries, often to the face, neck, and hands. In Kentucky, parents or guardians can pursue a claim on behalf of a child. Compensation may include medical expenses, reconstructive surgery, counseling for trauma, and future damages if the child suffers long-term effects. Courts often take these cases seriously, given the lifelong impact a dog bite can have on a child.

In many cases, yes. Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies often provide coverage for dog bite claims. However, some policies exclude certain breeds or limit payouts, leaving victims struggling with unpaid bills. A Morgan & Morgan attorney can review the policy and fight to ensure you’re compensated fairly.

It’s common for dog owners to argue that you provoked the attack or weren’t legally allowed on the property. Our attorneys are well-versed in these defenses and know how to effectively counter them. We gather medical records, eyewitness statements, animal control reports, and other evidence to prove liability and counter false claims.

Yes. If you were bitten while on the job, for example, as a delivery driver, utility worker, or postal carrier, you may qualify for both workers’ compensation and a separate claim against the dog’s owner. This can help you recover lost wages, medical costs, and additional damages beyond workers' compensation.

Yes. Injuries caused by a dog don’t always involve a bite. If a dog jumped, chased, or knocked you down and you were injured, you may still have a valid premises liability claim. Courts in Kentucky recognize that dog owners can be held responsible for accidents caused by their pet’s behavior, not just bites.

The compensation available in a Bowling Green dog bite case depends on the extent of your injuries. Common recoverable damages include:

• Medical bills for emergency treatment, surgery, and rehabilitation
• Lost wages if your injuries kept you from working
• Pain and suffering for physical pain and emotional distress
• Permanent disability or disfigurement from scarring or long-term injuries
• Psychological trauma, including anxiety or PTSD
• Property damage, if your clothing, glasses, or other personal items were damaged in the attack

Dog bite cases can be complex, especially when insurance companies push back or owners deny responsibility. At Morgan & Morgan, our attorneys bring decades of experience and the resources of America’s Largest Injury Law Firm to your side. We know Kentucky’s strict liability laws inside and out, and we’ve recovered billions for injury victims nationwide.

Best of all, you don’t pay unless we win. Our Fee Is Free™ promise means you can pursue justice without upfront costs or added financial stress.

If you or your child has been injured by a dog in Bowling Green, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case review and let us fight for the compensation and accountability you deserve.