Arkansas Injury Law
Arkansas Personal Injury
Defining a Bite
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Arkansas Dog Bite Lawyers
The word “bite” is used in Arkansas dog bite statutes, courtroom verdicts and local ordinances, but its meaning can vary from case to case. If its definition is not defined by the state’s statutes, the court will use the dictionary definition. A likely definition is “to cut, wound or tear with the teeth.” (Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1). Random House, Inc. 14 Jan. 2009) However, some painful dog bites may not tear the skin. If a victim is wearing thick denim, the dog may not break the skin, yet can still cause a painful injury.
In many instances, broken skin may not even indicate that an actual bite from the dog’s mouth has taken place. Dog bite injuries in Arkansas can have occurred from biting, clawing or swiping with the teeth. Specifying the actual type of injury is important during a Arkansas dog bite lawsuit.
In a lawsuit that refers to a dog bite statute which refers to a bite or a tendency to do so, the victim must prove that the bite occurred. Proof of a bite may be a testimony or a relevant and reliable document or item which allows the judge to decide if the bite occurred. Also, the absence of a witness stating that the dog used his claws or only grazed with its teeth may be proof that the action was a bite. Some victims may not need proof of a bite, but argue that it is common knowledge that dogs are creatures that bite.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, fill out our free case review form on the right. A dog bite lawyer in Arkansas will evaluate your claim, at no cost to you, to determine your eligibility for a lawsuit.