Dog bite attacks in Bowling Green, Kentucky, can lead to devastating physical injuries, emotional trauma, and long-term financial costs. If you or your child was bitten, Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC is ready to hold the responsible party accountable when you call (270) 517-2014.
Kentucky law gives victims the right to seek compensation from negligent owners. Let us fight for you. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Bowling Green dog bite lawyer.
Why Choose Minner Vines To Help Me After a Dog Bite in Bowling Green?
Dog bite cases in Bowling Green, Kentucky, often pit victims against insurance companies and pet owners who try to avoid liability. Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC has the experience, resources, and reputation to stand up for your rights.
With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our personal injury lawyers understand how to build strong claims and maximize financial recovery. We’ve earned recognition from Benchmark Litigation, Martindale-Hubbell, Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, and LawDragon 500 for our skill and client service.
Our results include some of the largest verdicts and settlements in the region; we’ve recovered more than $1 billion in total compensation for our clients. We know how traumatic dog attacks can be, especially when the victim is a child. Our compassionate, aggressive approach means you’ll never have to face this process alone.
From investigating the incident to negotiating with insurers and preparing for trial, we’ll handle everything so you can focus on healing. Call us today to speak with a Bowling Green personal injury attorney and learn how we can help.
Kentucky Dog Bite Laws
Kentucky follows a “strict liability” rule when it comes to dog bites. Under KRS § 258.235(4), a dog owner is legally responsible for injuries their dog causes—regardless of whether the dog had a history of aggression or the owner was negligent.
This means that:
- You do not need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous
- The owner can be held liable even if the dog had never bitten anyone before
- You may have a valid claim even if the bite occurred on the owner’s property
Unlike some states that follow a “one bite rule,” Kentucky holds owners accountable from the very first incident. This makes it easier for victims to pursue compensation, but you must still prove that the dog caused your injuries and identify the responsible party.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks can result in serious, sometimes life-altering injuries, particularly for children, who are more likely to be bitten in the face or neck. Our team represents clients suffering from:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations
- Facial injuries and disfigurement
- Nerve damage
- Broken bones
- Infections, including rabies and sepsis
- Scarring and permanent disability
- PTSD and psychological trauma
In severe cases, reconstructive surgery, skin grafts, or long-term psychological therapy may be necessary. We work with medical experts to fully document the impact of your injuries and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
What To Do After a Dog Bite in Bowling Green
If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog, taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim:
- Seek immediate medical attention: Even if the wound appears minor, dog bites can lead to serious infections or internal damage.
- Report the incident: Contact Bowling Green Animal Control or local law enforcement. An official report helps create a paper trail.
- Identify the dog and owner: Get the owner’s name, contact information, and proof of the dog’s vaccination status.
- Document everything: Take photos of your injuries, the dog, the location, and any torn clothing or property damage.
- Speak with witnesses: Gather names and contact information from anyone who saw the incident.
- Contact an attorney: A lawyer can help you file your claim, preserve evidence, and deal with insurers on your behalf.
The sooner you involve legal counsel, the better your chances of securing a full recovery.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Dog Bite in Kentucky?
While dog owners are the most common defendants in these cases, other parties may also be held responsible depending on the circumstances:
- Property owners who allowed a dangerous dog on their premises
- Landlords who knew of a tenant’s aggressive dog and failed to act
- Dog walkers or caretakers who failed to restrain the dog
- Businesses where the bite occurred, such as pet stores or groomers
Identifying all liable parties increases your chances of recovering maximum compensation. Our Bowling Green dog bite lawyers conduct thorough investigations to ensure no responsible party is overlooked.
What Compensation Can I Recover?
Victims of dog bites in Kentucky may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages. These include economic damages such as:
- Medical expenses
- Future treatment and surgeries
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage (e.g., broken glasses, torn clothing)
You might also recover non-economic damages, like:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and anxiety
- Disfigurement or scarring
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In cases involving reckless behavior—such as letting a dangerous dog roam free—punitive damages may be available to punish the owner and deter similar conduct.
Dog Bites Involving Children
Children are the most common victims of dog attacks. Their small size makes them more likely to suffer severe injuries, especially to the face, head, and neck. These attacks often leave lasting psychological damage in addition to physical harm. Victims may develop lifelong fear, anxiety, or trauma that requires counseling.
In many cases, children bitten by dogs experience nightmares, separation anxiety, or develop a lasting fear of animals. Some regress developmentally—returning to bed-wetting, thumb-sucking, or avoiding social interactions. Others may struggle with depression or anger, especially if the bite resulted in permanent scarring or disability. These psychological effects can interfere with school performance, friendships, and overall emotional development.
Kentucky law allows parents to file claims on behalf of their minor children. Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC has extensive experience helping families recover the compensation needed for treatment, therapy, and long-term care.
We handle these cases with the utmost compassion and care, fighting to secure the resources your child needs to fully heal, physically and emotionally.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Dog Bites?
Most homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies include liability coverage for dog bites, even if the bite occurred away from the insured’s property. That said, some policies exclude certain breeds or require proof of proper fencing and restraint.
Insurance companies may also try to deny or undervalue your claim. Our lawyers have decades of experience negotiating with insurers and will fight to ensure your rights are protected.
What if the Dog Was Unleashed or Roaming?
Bowling Green and Warren County have leash laws that require dogs to be under control at all times. If the dog was running loose, the owner is likely in violation of local ordinances—which strengthens your case.
Injuries from unleashed dogs in public spaces, apartment complexes, or parks often create liability under both state law and municipal code. Our attorneys can obtain relevant records, such as animal control reports, to support your claim.
How Long Do I Have To File a Dog Bite Claim in Kentucky?
Kentucky’s statute of limitations for most personal injury lawsuits is one year from the date of the injury. This is among the shortest deadlines in the country.
If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation, even if your injuries are severe. There are limited exceptions, such as when the victim is a minor, but you should speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC, can ensure your case is filed on time and properly preserved.
Contact a Bowling Green Dog Bite Lawyer for a Free Case Review
If you or a loved one suffered injuries from a dog attack in Bowling Green, KY, you don’t have to go through this alone. Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC has the experience, results, and dedication to fight for justice on your behalf.
We offer free consultations and charge no fees unless we recover compensation for you. Call today to speak with a trusted Bowling Green dog bite lawyer.