Little Rock
Dog Bite Lawyer

When a dog bite occurs in Little Rock, victims often face overwhelming medical bills, emotional trauma, and uncertainty about their legal rights. At TopDog Law, we help connect you with experienced Little Rock dog bite lawyers who can help you secure compensation.

Get Your Free Case Review Today

If You Want Help... Call Us

It costs absolutely nothing to see if you have a case

Play Video

If You Want Help... Call Us

It costs absolutely nothing to see if you have a case

As Seen On

TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers James Helm Image
Play Video about TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers James Helm Image
TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers ABC Logo
TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers James Helm Image
Play Video about TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers James Helm Image
TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers CBS Logo
TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers Image
Play Video about TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers Image
TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers Billboards Near You Logo

Your Guide to Dog Bite in Little Rock

James Helm, Personal Injury Lawyer

Understanding Dog Bite Cases in Little Rock

Arkansas law provides important protections for dog bite victims. While some states follow a one-bite rule, Arkansas combines elements of strict liability and negligence laws depending on the circumstances of the attack. 

Understanding these legal matters plays a part in pursuing fair compensation. This is why we focus on connecting victims with attorneys who have deep knowledge of local dog bite laws and regulations.

Key Arkansas Dog Bite Laws

  • Under Arkansas Code § 20-19-302, dog owners can be held liable for damages if their dog bites someone while running at large
  • Little Rock Municipal Code Chapter 6 establishes additional local regulations for dog ownership and liability
  • Property owners may be liable if they knowingly allow dangerous dogs on their premises
  • Victims generally have three years from the date of the incident to pursue legal action
  • Arkansas follows a modified comparative negligence system, which means victims can still recover damages even if partially at fault, as long as they are less than 50% responsible
  • Local ordinances require dogs to be leashed in public areas and properly confined on private property
  • Dog owners must maintain current vaccinations and proper licensing
  • Special provisions exist for dangerous dog breeds and dogs with previous bite history
dog bite lawyer

Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks can result in severe physical and psychological trauma, often requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term care:

Physical Injuries

  • Deep puncture wounds requiring stitches or surgical repair
  • Facial injuries and permanent scarring that may require reconstructive surgery
  • Nerve damage leading to reduced sensation or mobility
  • Broken bones, particularly in children and elderly victims
  • Soft tissue damage including torn muscles and ligaments
  • Infections including rabies risk, cellulitis, and sepsis
  • Crushing injuries from powerful dog jaws
  • Avulsion injuries where flesh is torn away
  • Head and neck trauma
  • Spinal cord injuries in severe attacks
  • Internal organ damage
  • Amputation in extreme cases

Psychological Impacts

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with recurring nightmares
  • Cynophobia (fear of dogs) affecting daily activities
  • Anxiety in public spaces and outdoor activities
  • Depression and social withdrawal
  • Sleep disturbances and insomnia
  • Panic attacks when encountering dogs
  • Agoraphobia limiting outdoor activities
  • Impact on personal relationships
  • Decreased quality of life
  • Loss of enjoyment in previously enjoyed activities
  • Educational or developmental delays in child victims
  • Long-term emotional scarring

Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims

Through proper legal representation, dog bite victims may be eligible for different forms of compensation. The attorney we connect you with will work diligently to pursue all available damages:

Medical Expenses

  • Emergency room treatment and initial care
  • Surgical procedures including reconstructive surgery
  • Ongoing medical care and follow-up visits
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation services
  • Plastic surgery for scarring reduction
  • Psychological counseling and therapy
  • Prescription medications
  • Medical equipment and supplies
  • Future medical procedures
  • Occupational therapy
  • Pain management treatment
  • Alternative therapy options
  • Transportation to medical appointments
  • In-home care services if needed

Other Recoverable Damages

  • Lost wages from missed work during recovery
  • Diminished earning capacity for permanent injuries
  • Pain and suffering compensation
  • Emotional distress and mental anguish
  • Permanent disability accommodations
  • Disfigurement and scarring
  • Future medical expenses and ongoing care
  • Loss of quality of life
  • Loss of consortium for affected relationships
  • Property damage related to the incident
  • Out-of-pocket expenses
  • Future lost opportunities
  • Lifestyle modifications necessary due to injuries
  • Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Little Rock

  1. Go to the Doctor
    • Visit emergency room or urgent care promptly
    • Document all injuries with photographs
    • Keep detailed records of all medical treatment
    • Follow all medical recommendations carefully
    • Attend all follow-up appointments
    • Monitor for signs of infection
    • Keep track of all medications prescribed
    • Save all medical bills and receipts
  2. Report the Incident
    • Contact Little Rock Animal Services immediately
    • File a detailed police report
    • Obtain contact information for the dog owner
    • Collect information from any witnesses
    • Get copies of all official reports
    • Document the location of the incident
    • Note any security cameras in the area
    • Report to property management if applicable
  3. Gather Evidence
    • Take multiple photos of all injuries
    • Document the scene of the attack
    • Preserve torn or bloodied clothing
    • Keep copies of all medical records
    • Save all related bills and receipts
    • Maintain a daily pain and recovery journal
    • Record all missed work days
    • Document any witness statements
    • Take photos as injuries heal
    • Keep track of all related expenses
    • Save all communication with involved parties
  4. Contact TopDog Law
    • Get connected with experienced local attorneys
    • Receive guidance on next steps
    • Get answers to your questions
dog bite lawyer
Personal Injury Lawyer

The Importance of Professional Legal Help

Dog bite cases involve legal and insurance issues that require professional experience. Having qualified legal representation is good for:

  • Understanding your rights under Arkansas state and local laws
  • Identifying all potentially liable parties, including property owners
  • Calculating fair and full compensation for all damages
  • Negotiating effectively with insurance companies
  • Meeting all legal deadlines and procedural requirements
  • Gathering and preserving necessary evidence
  • Building a strong, compelling case
  • Addressing comparative negligence issues
  • Navigating medical liens and insurance claims
  • Ensuring proper documentation of all damages
  • Protecting your rights throughout the process
  • Maximizing potential compensation

Contact TopDog Law Today

James Helm with Phone and Cash Bag

TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers

Little Rock Office

116 Ottenheimer Plaza Suite 4B
Little Rock AR 72201

Translate »