For many people in Kentucky, UPS’ large brown trucks and brown-uniformed delivery drivers are one of the most common sights in their neighborhood. With the holiday season approaching, deliveries throughout Kentucky are increasing. While UPS deliveries are convenient and most go smoothly, being back and forth to so many houses usually means encounters with dogs. And even the most docile and well-trained dog can sometimes bite you.
If you’re a UPS delivery driver and you’ve been bitten by a dog at work, you can count on the experience and knowledge of Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC. Our team of dedicated Kentucky dog bite lawyers knows how to approach these cases and can help you figure out what to do next. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Should You Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer in Kentucky?
While Kentucky doesn’t require the engagement of an attorney for a dog bite case, having our experience, knowledge, and support on your side can significantly simplify the legal process for you and your family.
Our extensive experience has led to the development of a proven system that offers various benefits to our clients. Here’s what you can expect from our legal support after a dog bite:
- Legal guidance – We possess an in-depth knowledge of dog bite laws and regulations in Kentucky, ensuring you receive effective legal guidance.
- Case evaluation – We will carefully assess the specifics of your case to determine its strength and potential for a successful outcome.
- Negotiations – Our legal team comprises skilled negotiators who can work to secure a fair settlement for your dog bite injuries without the need for a court battle.
- Court representation – If the situation demands it, we are prepared to provide robust representation in court to fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.
- Evidence collection – We will diligently gather and present evidence to support your case, including medical records, witness statements, and more.
- Negotiating with insurance companies – Our team is well-equipped to handle all interactions with insurance companies, ensuring that your best interests are protected.
- Fair settlement – We are committed to maximizing your compensation, covering expenses such as medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
- Peace of mind – Our ultimate goal is to provide you with peace of mind during a challenging time, assuring you that your legal matters are in capable hands.
When you work as a UPS driver, you visit a lot of homes in Kentucky. While not every one of these has a dog, the reality is that you’re going to encounter a lot of these animals. As such, it’s important to understand how Kentucky law handles dog bites, and what you need to do to fully pursue your legal rights.
Dog Bites and Liability for Kentucky UPS Drivers
In the state of Kentucky, there are specific legal guidelines regarding dog bites and the corresponding legal responsibility. Kentucky operates under a “strict liability” framework, which means:
- The owner of the dog that caused the injury is held accountable, even in situations where the incident was not intentional.
This approach to dog bite cases sets Kentucky apart from many other states. Unlike some states that might have exceptions to strict liability if the victim was trespassing or provoked the dog, Kentucky does not incorporate such exceptions. Consequently, in Kentucky, the dog owner bears legal responsibility for injuries inflicted by their dog, regardless of the circumstances.
Damages
For a UPS driver, this distinction is of utmost importance. Essentially, if you happen to be bitten by a dog while attempting to deliver a package, the dog’s owner (or keeper) is fully liable for covering the costs of your injuries and associated damages. In a dog attack scenario, these injuries and effects can lead to physical, emotionally, and financial trauma for you and your family.
Depending on the extent of the bite and surrounding circumstances, you could potentially recover the following damages in a Kentucky dog bite claim:
- Medical expenses – Dog bites can result in serious injuries that require immediate medical attention. This category covers all your medical costs, such as hospital bills, surgeries, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical treatment. It ensures that you receive the necessary care without bearing the financial burden.
- Lost wages – If a dog bite leaves you unable to work, you may experience a loss of income. This compensation category accounts for the wages you’ve foregone due to your injury, ensuring you don’t suffer financially because of the incident.
- Pain and suffering – Beyond the physical injuries, dog bites can cause emotional and psychological distress. This category acknowledges the emotional trauma, pain, and suffering you endure due to the incident. It aims to provide financial support for the intangible hardships you face.
- Property damage – In some cases, dogs may damage personal property during an attack. For instance, they might destroy clothing or personal belongings. Compensation for property damage ensures that you’re reimbursed for these losses.
- Scarring and disfigurement – Dog bites can lead to permanent scarring or disfigurement, which can have a lasting impact on your self-esteem and overall quality of life. Compensation in this category addresses the physical changes and emotional distress resulting from scarring or disfigurement.
- Punitive damages – In certain situations, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the dog owner for gross negligence or reckless behavior. These damages serve as a deterrent and can be significant in cases of extreme misconduct.
The claims process can be complicated, even when it’s clear who’s at fault. Dealing with insurance companies adds to the complexity. These companies often try to pay as little as possible, which can lead to disputes and negotiations. It’s important to know that they are profit-driven and may not always prioritize your best interests.
This underscores why it’s crucial to work with our experienced lawyers. We’re skilled in handling these cases, especially in negotiating with insurance companies. We can make sure you get the compensation you deserve and help you navigate the complexities of the process. This way, you can concentrate on your recovery without the extra stress of legal and insurance issues.
How to Make Your Dog Bite Claim Stronger as a Kentucky UPS Driver
While you don’t expect to get bitten by a dog as a UPS driver, the fact remains that you need to be prepared since it’s always a possibility. To make sure your dog bite claim is as strong as possible, follow these steps:
- Get medical care – If a dog bites you, seek immediate medical attention. This not only safeguards your health but also creates an official medical record of your injury.
- Report the incident – Inform your supervisor and UPS management about the dog bite. Also make sure the incident is properly documented by the company.
- Gather evidence – Collect evidence related to the incident, like photos of the dog, the house or location, your injuries, and any damaged packages. If there are any witnesses, try to get their contact information.
- Document your injuries – Keep a detailed record of your injuries, treatments, and medical expenses. This helps show the extent of your damages.
- Preserve your uniform and other evidence – Hold onto your UPS uniform and any damaged clothing as evidence of the attack.
- Contact local animal control – Report the incident to local animal control authorities so they can investigate and potentially quarantine the dog.
Remember, these are general tips, and every case is unique. Working with our team not only simplifies the recovery process but also protects your interests. We’ll help you gather evidence and give you guidance as you progress through the legal system to make sure you get what you’re owed.
Support for UPS Drivers After a Kentucky Dog Bite
Being bitten by a dog is a serious matter, especially for UPS delivery drivers who encounter dogs regularly. In such challenging situations, our dedicated Kentucky dog bite lawyers at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC are here to help you secure the compensation you need for your recovery. We handle all aspects of your claim, allowing you to focus on healing. Contact us today for a free consultation to get started.
