The main reason dog attacks occur more frequently in the summer months is most likely because more people are out and about during the day and are more likely to encounter dogs that are unfamiliar to them.
Many attacks occur outside in neighborhoods, in parks, or other public areas while people are walking dogs or where dogs could easily break free.
With more people outside during the summer, including children out of school, there is an increased chance of encounters with aggressive dogs. Also, studies like this one in Psychology Today have shown there seems to be a correlation between the warm summer temperatures and increased aggression in dogs.
Dog attacks on children make up nearly half of reported dog bites, and kids are more likely than adults to need medical care after an attack. A dog will typically bite because it feels threatened or is attempting to protect its owner or property. It is up to the pet’s owner to keep the animal properly restrained, whether it is fenced in a backyard, kept in the home, or on a leash at all times when in public.
How to Notice Signs of Aggression in Dogs
Aggressive dogs may show signs that they are uncomfortable, scared, or may be aggressive, including:
- Growling
- Snarling
- Staring
- Becoming very still
- Barking threateningly
- Displaying their teeth
- Ears standing up
- Tail up
- Legs apart
- Shoulders forward
While dogs do not always show all these signs, they often exhibit several of these behaviors simultaneously. Although it may be just a second or two of warning signs before a bite, dogs rarely attack without first showing some signs.
Dog Bite Laws in Tennessee
Tennessee dog bite laws impose strict liability on dog owners, meaning that dog bite victims who want to pursue legal action can hold the dog’s owner liable if the incident took place in a public place. A dog owner is considered responsible for all injuries, regardless of whether they knew their dog was prone to aggressive behavior.
However, when a dog bite occurs on private property, injury claims can become more complicated. Tennessee has the “one bite rule,” meaning the dog owner will not be held liable for the victim’s injuries unless the dog was vicious, or the owner knew of the dog’s dangerous tendencies.
Tennessee law essentially gives dog owners one bite free. After the dog attacks once, the owner should know of the animal’s propensity to bite and can be held liable for any future attacks. Contact the Terry Law Firm if you have any questions about Tennessee’s complex dog bite laws.
How Can The Terry Law Firm Help Me?
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite in Tennessee, the experienced personal injury lawyers at the Terry Law Firm are ready to review your case. Our highly skilled legal team can thoroughly investigate the dog attack and put together a claim on your behalf to seek the maximum compensation that you deserve.
Allow us to handle all the complicated legal matters that come with a dog bite case so you can focus on your health and recovery. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
