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Mississippi Dog And Animal Bite Lawyer

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Dogs bite cases in Mississippi largely go unnoticed by the media and the general public, a trend that mimics the general picture of the rest of the country. However, over five million dog bites and attacks occur each year, sending over 300,000 victims to the hospital emergency rooms. Because of this, you should never approach a dog that's growling, foaming at the mouth, or barring their teeth. Only when you have the owner's permission should you approach or pet an unfamiliar dog.

Studies show that 20 percent of dogs who are involved in these attacks are not-neutered, and that most incidents occur on the owners' property, when the animals are not leashed. Most of the victims in these attacks are men under the age of 20; women and the elderly, conversely, are at a higher risk of being bitten by a cat. Fortunately, fatalities are only reported in a fractional percentage of these case. For about 100 victims a year, however, this is not a comforting stat.

In addition to the obvious pain and suffering caused by an animal attack, there are also long lasting effects that can result. For starters, the wound may become infected, leading to longer hospital stays and higher medical bills. Secondly, the experience can be a traumatic one, with psychological effects that keep you away from dogs for years. If you are involved in a dog attack, seek medical attention right away. Next, however, consider your legal options. You may be eligible for compensation for your losses, including medical costs, lost wages, damages, and any other expenses you might have incurred.

To find a lawyer in Mississippi who specializes in dog bites, go to the American Bar Association's website, where you can find recommendations for thousands of attorneys in your area. If you cannot find a firm that specializes in dog bites, a personal injury attorney may also be able to help you. The important thing to keep in mind is that dog bite laws differ from state to state, and you need someone familiar with the nuance and precedents of Mississippi law. Find a lawyer who has experience in cases that are similar to yours and a proven track record of success.

Mississippi is a one-bite state, which means that owners of dogs are not responsible for their pets' first outburst. This makes it difficult to prosecute, but an experienced dog bite lawyer might still be able to seek compensation for you. A Mississippi dog and animal bite lawyer will be well-versed in this and other Mississippi dog-bite laws, in order to help you recover the maximum amount of damages allowable under Mississippi law.

Also, pet owners may be coached in certain defenses to repel lawsuits, including pointing out that the attack was provoked, that the victim ignored restraints, and that warnings of the danger of the dog were ignored. Make sure your case isn't ruined by hiring an attorney who can adequately fight for you.