Dedicated Legal Support For Individuals, Families And Injury Victims
Shepard Helton and Jonathan Fultz

Kentucky Dog Bites Attorneys

Last updated on June 30, 2025

Being bitten by a vicious dog can lead to significant injuries that require immediate and urgent medical treatment. However, by acting in accordance with the law and handling the situation appropriately, victims can resolve the matter peacefully and recover the compensation required to cover their losses.

At FH Law, our Crestview Hills personal injury attorneys have profound experience supporting victims of dog bites in the Kenton and Covington County areas. From the moment our attorneys learn of the incident to the case’s resolution, we will be there to provide guidance on the laws surrounding animal attacks and make sure our clients have their rights defended.

Kentucky’s Liability Laws For Dog Bites And Owner Responsibility

In relation to dog bites, Kentucky is designated as a strict liability state, meaning that all owners are fully responsible for the damage caused by the actions of their dog. Moreover, the victim does not need to prove that the owner acted negligently or that they knew their dog was dangerous to file a lawsuit.

Despite Kentucky’s strict liability laws, comparative negligence can still play a part in a dog bite case. For example, if the victim acted carelessly and incited the dog to attack them, the potential settlement may be reduced drastically.

Steps Victims Should Take Following A Dog Bite Incident

An animal attack can leave victims in a state of shock and confusion. Kentucky dog bite victims can avoid falling into this situation by understanding how to handle an animal attack before it happens.

The first step that bite victims should take is to find safety by fleeing the scene and removing themselves from the situation. Once the victim has created a safe distance from themselves and the dog, they can then evaluate the severity of the bite and clean the wound to the best of their abilities.

Next, bite victims should attempt to identify the owner of the animal and request their contact information. To further alleviate any worries, victims should ask the owner about the dog’s past vaccinations to understand if rabies may be a concern.

After receiving the dog owner’s information, bite victims may want to contact animal control to inform them about the injury and to create a record of the attack. Documenting the bite should be the next priority for victims. Be sure to take photos of the affected area and other extenuating circumstances, such as a broken fence that allowed the dog to escape or if the dog was not wearing a leash during the incident.

Obtaining treatment should be the next step taken, as medical documentation is essential to building a strong case following a dog bite. Visiting a doctor’s office can also help victims prevent infections or other complications from developing.

Finally, to ensure that everything has been handled correctly, dog bite victims may want to seek out the services of an attorney. A dog bite lawyer can provide guidance and support throughout the legal proceedings and offer insight to help victims financially recover from the attack.

What Proof Is Needed For A Dog Bite?

In order to be compensated for their injuries and suffering, dog bite victims must have a few pieces of evidence to back up their claim. First, victims will need proof that the bite happened. Taking photos of the bite, seeking medical care, filing a report with animal control and speaking with witnesses can all be strong pieces of evidence that can reinforce a person’s injury claim.

Kentucky residents who have been attacked by a dog will also need to prove that the owner was responsible for the animal and that their negligence led to the incident. First, there must be evidence that the owner actually has legal possession of the dog. Furthermore, the victim will need to acquire evidence that the owner’s carelessness contributed to the attack.

Is It Worth It To Sue For A Dog Bite?

The decision to take legal action following a dog bite can be difficult due to the sheer number of factors that must be contemplated. Before making a final determination, injured Kentucky residents should consider the severity of their injuries, including whether or not they missed work and incurred lost wages.

Filing a lawsuit may additionally be the best course of action when the owner does not accept liability or there are questions about the owner’s liability. Moreover, if an equitable settlement cannot be reached between the victim and the owner or their insurance provider, a lawsuit may be needed to resolve the case.

Tenaciously Supporting Dog Bite Victims In Kentucky

Negligent pet owners deserve to be held responsible for their actions or lack of action. We are ready to stand up for Kentucky residents who are recovering after a vicious dog attack. To obtain our firm’s extensive support, call our office at 859-440-2338 or complete our contact form today.