When you hear about personal injury claims involving dogs, you typically think about dog bite incidents. However, accidents involving dogs who knock down pedestrians occur each year in Kentucky as well. Especially when an individual is running from one destination to another, there is always a risk that a dog that is not leashed could start chasing them. This could lead to a serious accident with life-altering injuries.
Our attorneys at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC are here to help you after your life has been turned upside-down by a running accident caused by a negligent dog owner. Our attorneys have fought for million-dollar settlements for victims of accidents and will stand by your side in your time of need. We will handle your claim with confidence knowing that we can earn you maximum financial recovery when you need it the most.
Fall Hazards to Runners Caused by Dogs
Even though a dog can make the best companion, they can also become easily excitable. If a dog is protecting their owner or become excited when they see a runner headed down the street, they may chase after them and knock them over. Even if the dog didn’t intend to hurt the runner, a serious accident can occur, leading to severe and even life-threatening injuries.
In many knock-down cases involving runners and dogs, a dog may not have been leashed or pulled out of its owner’s grasp when it chases after a runner. A victim may fall onto a hard ground or sidewalk, which can have devastating results that nobody expected. This is especially true if a runner hits their head on an object or falls the wrong way, injuring an internal organ.
Who is Responsible in a Dog Knock Down Accident Involving a Runner?
When a dog causes you an injury in a knock-down accident, you may wonder who is liable. Kentucky is a “strict liability” state as it pertains to dog-related accidents. This means that, if a dog is involved in a knock-down or bite incident, the owner is almost always liable for the damages that result. As long as the runner was not trespassing at the time of the accident, the owner could be financially responsible for what results.
The difference between a dog knocking down a runner or biting a runner is the fact that the burden of proof is higher for victims. It is easier to prove that a dog bit you because the evidence is right there. However, in a knock-down accident, the dog’s owner may try to point the finger and say that you fell on your own. This is why it is important to have valuable evidence on your side such as surveillance videos, photographs, witness statements, and more.
Damages Available to Runners Knocked Over by Dogs
If you were knocked over by a dog in a running accident, you may have suffered from immense damages. Many individuals will face injuries like brain injuries, broken bones, organ damage, internal bleeding, spinal cord injuries, dislocations, and more. In a lot of cases, a victim may face time away from work, ongoing medical care, and in-home care as they recover from their injuries. These aspects can pile up financially as a victim is focused on their recovery.
You may find that you can receive some of the following damages after a runner-related accident caused by a dog:
- Medical bills and future medical bills that you may incur
- Loss of income and future lost wages due to a victim missing time at work
- Permanent disfigurement and disability
- Support for emotional trauma and physical pain
- Wrongful death damages if a loved one loses their life
Contact a Kentucky Runner Injury Lawyer
After a Kentucky running accident caused by a dog knocking you over, you may be feeling lost and alone. You are likely feeling concerned about the many bills that continue to pile up against you and may have questions concerning your claim. Luckily, our Kentucky runner injury lawyers are here for you at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC in your time of need. We will provide you with guidance and support that you need to receive maximum compensation at this time. Please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free and fully confidential case consultation.
