Dog Bite Lawyers

A dog attack is a terrifying, chaotic event. In seconds, a friendly neighborhood pet can cause life-altering damage—especially to children, who are the most frequent victims. From deep lacerations and nerve damage to the high risk of infection and permanent scarring on the face, the physical wounds are severe. But the emotional trauma can last a lifetime.

At Freeman Childers, we help families in Kentucky and Tennessee hold irresponsible dog owners accountable. We know that in many cases, the dog had a history of aggression that the owner ignored. We fight to get the compensation needed for reconstructive surgery and psychological counseling.

KY vs. TN: The Law Changes at the Border

This is the most important legal distinction in our region. Your rights depend entirely on which side of the state line the attack happened.

If the Attack Was in Kentucky (Strict Liability):

• The Rule: Kentucky is a "Strict Liability" state (KRS 258.235).

• What This Means: The owner is liable for any damage their dog causes to a person, livestock, or property. It does not matter if the dog has never bitten anyone before. It does not matter if the owner was careful.

• Exceptions: The only major defense is if you were trespassing or teasing/provoking the dog. Otherwise, the owner pays.

If the Attack Was in Tennessee (Hybrid Rule):

• The Rule: Tennessee law (T.C.A. § 44-8-413) is more complicated.

• "Strict Liability" Applies If: The attack happened in a public place (like a park or sidewalk) OR if the dog was running at large. The owner is liable regardless of the dog's history.

• "One Bite Rule" Applies If: The attack happened on the owner's private property (like inside their home or in their fenced yard). In this specific case, you must prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous (e.g., it had bitten someone before).

• Exceptions: Trespassing, provocation, or if it was a police/military dog.

Who Pays for the Damage?

Many victims are hesitant to sue because the dog owner might be a neighbor, friend, or relative. You are not suing your neighbor. You are filing a claim against their Homeowner's Insurance or Renter's Insurance. These policies exist exactly for this reason. We negotiate with the insurance company so you don't have to have an awkward confrontation with the dog owner.

Injuries We Handle

• Facial Scarring: Especially in children, requiring plastic surgery and future revisions.

• Nerve Damage: Deep bites to the hands or arms that cause loss of sensation or movement.

• Infections: Dog mouths are dirty. untreated bites can lead to sepsis or serious tissue damage.

• Knock-Down Injuries: Broken hips or wrists caused by a large dog jumping on an elderly person (even if they didn't bite).

What If It Wasn't a "Bite"?

In Kentucky, the law covers "damage to a person." This means if a dog chases you while you are on a bicycle and causes you to crash, or if a large dog jumps on you and knocks you down, the owner is still liable for your injuries. You do not have to be bitten to have a case.

Attacked by a Dog?

Take photos of the injuries immediately. Report the attack to Animal Control. Then call 606-528-1000 to protect your rights.