Tennessee follows a “mixed” liability system for dog bites. The state imposes strict liability if the bite occurs in a public place or when the victim is lawfully on private property. However, if the bite occurs on the owner’s property, the victim must prove the owner knew or should have known of the dog’s dangerous propensities.

Dog bite victims may receive compensation for medical expenses, plastic surgery costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress (including PTSD or fear of dogs), and in some cases, punitive damages. Children often receive higher compensation due to lasting psychological and physical scarring.

Seek medical attention immediately, as dog bites can cause serious infections. Report the bite to local animal control authorities, document your injuries with photographs, identify the dog owner if possible, collect witness information, and contact our attorneys before speaking with insurance companies.

Filing a claim doesn’t automatically result in the dog being euthanized. Animal control authorities make separate determinations based on the dog’s history, the severity of the attack, and local ordinances. Our focus is on securing your compensation while leaving animal control decisions to the appropriate authorities.

Dog owners often claim provocation as a defense. Tennessee law reduces or eliminates compensation if the victim provoked the dog. However, legal provocation has a specific definition – minor irritations typically don’t qualify, especially for children who may not understand appropriate behavior around animals. Our attorneys work to counter unfounded provocation claims.

Most homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies cover dog bite liability, typically with limits between $100,000 and $300,000. However, some policies exclude certain breeds or dogs with bite history. We investigate all potential insurance coverage, including umbrella policies that may provide additional compensation.