Dog attacks can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. In New Orleans and across Southeast Louisiana, dog bites occur in neighborhoods, public parks, apartment complexes, and even in businesses that allow pets on-site. Children are often the most vulnerable victims, but adults can also suffer severe injuries, infections, and trauma.
At the Gertler Law Firm, we represent dog bite victims throughout Orleans Parish, Jefferson Parish, St. Bernard Parish, and Plaquemines Parish. For more than 50 years, we have helped families hold negligent pet owners accountable when dangerous animals cause harm. Our attorneys know Louisiana’s dog bite laws, understand how insurers defend these cases, and fight for the compensation victims need to recover.
The Serious Impact of Dog and Animal Attacks
Dog bites are not just minor injuries. Many result in:
- Severe Lacerations and Puncture Wounds: Often requiring stitches or reconstructive surgery.
- Infections and Disease: Animal bites can transmit rabies, MRSA, or other dangerous infections.
- Permanent Scarring and Disfigurement: Especially common when bites affect the face, arms, or legs.
- Nerve Damage and Loss of Function: Deep bites may cause long-term disability.
- Emotional Trauma: Victims, especially children, may suffer from lasting fear or post-traumatic stress.
These injuries frequently require not just immediate emergency care but ongoing medical treatment, therapy, and psychological support.
Common Locations for Dog Attacks in New Orleans
While dog bites can occur anywhere, certain settings present higher risks:
- Residential Neighborhoods: Unrestrained dogs in yards or apartment complexes in areas such as Mid-City, Metairie, and Kenner.
- Public Parks and Walking Trails: Including Audubon Park, City Park, and neighborhood green spaces.
- Tourist Areas: Crowded streets in the French Quarter or Downtown New Orleans, where dogs may be startled by noise and crowds.
- Delivery and Service Calls: Postal workers, delivery drivers, and contractors entering private property are frequent victims.
- Businesses: Stores or cafes that allow pets but fail to ensure safety for customers.
Wherever an attack occurs, pet owners are responsible for controlling their animals and preventing harm.
Louisiana Dog Bite Law
Louisiana law (Civil Code Article 2321) establishes that dog owners can be held liable if:
- The dog posed an unreasonable risk of harm.
- The owner could have prevented the harm through reasonable care.
- The dog’s dangerous behavior directly caused injury.
Importantly, victims do not have to prove that the dog previously attacked someone or had a known history of aggression.
However, dog bite claims are subject to Louisiana’s one-year statute of limitations, meaning victims must act quickly to preserve their rights. Comparative fault rules may also apply if the defense argues the victim provoked the animal or ignored warnings.
How Gertler Law Firm Builds Strong Dog Bite Cases
Dog bite cases can be challenging, particularly when insurance companies argue that injuries are less serious than claimed. Our attorneys take a proactive approach, including:
- Investigating the circumstances of the attack and interviewing witnesses.
- Reviewing animal control records or prior complaints against the dog or owner.
- Working with medical experts to document the extent of injuries and future care needs.
- Calculating damages that include medical expenses, lost wages, scarring or disfigurement, and emotional trauma.
- Negotiating with insurers while preparing every case for trial if necessary.
For decades, families in New Orleans, Gretna, Marrero, Chalmette, Belle Chasse, and St. Rose have trusted us to fight for justice after devastating animal attacks.
The Lasting Toll on Families
Beyond the physical injuries, dog bites often leave emotional wounds. Children may fear animals for years, while adults may struggle with anxiety or depression. Visible scarring can affect confidence and quality of life. Parents frequently face the burden of missed work while caring for injured children, compounding the financial stress.
We recognize these cases are about more than compensation; they are about helping families regain security and peace of mind after a traumatic event.
Contact a New Orleans Dog Bite Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog or other animal in New Orleans or surrounding parishes, call the Gertler Law Firm at (504) 581-6411 or toll-free at 1-877-581-6411 for a free consultation.
You pay nothing unless we win. With more than 50 years of experience holding negligent parties accountable, our attorneys are prepared to fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.