What Reno and Sparks Residents Should Know
A dog bite can be both physically traumatic and emotionally scarring. Whether you're walking in your Sparks neighborhood or hiking one of Reno’s many scenic trails, a dog attack can happen suddenly and without warning. If you or someone you love has been injured by a dog, you may be wondering if you can sue for damages and how Nevada law protects victims.
At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, we help injured victims across Reno and Sparks navigate the complexities of Nevada dog bite laws. Below, we’ll walk you through your legal options and how a dog bite lawyer in Reno can help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Nevada Dog Bite Laws
Unlike some states with strict liability laws, Nevada follows a “one-bite rule.” This means that dog owners are not automatically liable for a bite unless they knew, or should have known, that their dog had a history of aggression.
That said, this doesn’t mean you’re out of options. If you can demonstrate that the dog’s owner acted negligently, for example, by failing to leash the dog in public or allowing it to roam freely, you may have a basis for a dog bite lawsuit in Nevada.
When You Can Sue After a Dog Bite
In most dog attack injury cases, legal responsibility hinges on negligence.
Here are some examples where the owner may be held liable:
The dog was off-leash in a public area that requires leashes.
The dog had a known history of biting or aggression.
The owner failed to warn others about the dog’s dangerous behavior.
The attack occurred on the owner's property, and the victim was legally allowed to be there.
In these situations, a skilled animal attack attorney in Reno can investigate your case, gather evidence, and hold the dog’s owner accountable.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks can cause more than puncture wounds. Victims may experience broken bones, nerve damage, scarring, disfigurement, infections like rabies or tetanus, and even emotional trauma such as PTSD or anxiety. These injuries often require extensive medical care, surgery, and ongoing therapy.
A successful lawsuit can help you recover compensation for these losses, including:
Medical bills (past and future)
Lost income and reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Disfigurement or permanent disability
If you or a loved one has suffered from a serious injury due to a dog bite, it’s essential to understand your legal rights.
What to Do After a Dog Attack
Experiencing a dog attack can be overwhelming and traumatic, but taking the right steps immediately afterward is crucial for your safety and legal rights.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, take these steps immediately:
Seek Medical Attention: Even minor-looking wounds can become infected quickly.
Report the Incident: Notify animal control or local law enforcement in Reno or Sparks.
Gather Evidence: Take photos of your injuries, the dog, and the scene of the attack.
Identify the Dog’s Owner: Get their name, address, and insurance information if possible.
Speak with a Dog Bite Lawyer in Reno: An experienced attorney can protect your rights and begin building your case.
Taking swift action after a dog bite is crucial to protect your health and ensure your rights are upheld. By following these steps and seeking professional legal advice, you can focus on your recovery while pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Steven J. Klearman & Associates
Navigating a dog bite lawsuit in Nevada isn’t always straightforward, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, we have experience handling complex personal injury cases, including dog attack injury claims and animal-related incidents throughout Northern Nevada.
We understand the emotional toll a dog attack can take and are committed to helping you recover both financially and physically. From investigating the dog’s history to negotiating with insurance companies, we will be by your side every step of the way.
If you’ve been injured by a dog in Reno, Sparks, Carson City, or anywhere in Northern Nevada, you may have legal grounds to pursue compensation. Contact us online or call (775) 573-0229 today to speak with a trusted personal injury attorney.