Carmel Dog Bite Lawyer

Walking through your neighborhood. Jogging the Monon Trail. Maybe just dropping off a package at someone’s door.

Then it happened. A dog attacked without warning.

Now you’re stuck dealing with torn skin, puncture wounds, injuries that might scar permanently. The owner keeps insisting their pet has “never done this before.” Meanwhile, their insurance company’s already calling, pushing you to settle for an amount that won’t come close to covering your medical bills.

Look, dog bite cases aren’t straightforward. Owners deny responsibility constantly. Insurance companies? They’ll use every trick in the book to pay as little as possible. Indiana’s dog bite laws are tricky to navigate if you don’t really know what you’re doing.

We’ve spent decades at Pavlack Law fighting for injured people across Carmel, Hamilton County, and Central Indiana. Millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients. We get Indiana’s one-bite rule, strict liability statutes, and how to handle homeowner’s insurance companies that won’t budge on fair compensation. That experience? We’re ready to put it to work for you.

Why Carmel Dog Bite Victims Choose Pavlack Law

Dog bite cases need specific legal knowledge. Not every personal injury attorney truly understands Indiana’s dog bite statutes or knows how to effectively go after claims through homeowner’s insurance.

Attorney Eric Pavlack leads our team. He’s earned recognition as a Super Lawyers Rising Star and Super Lawyer consistently from 2009 through 2025. Our three attorneys bring 50 years of combined experience to every single case.

Proven Track Record: We’ve recovered millions for families throughout Carmel and Hamilton County. Results include a $6,000,000 settlement for a widow and her children after their father died due to negligence. Another $4,000,000 for a woman paralyzed from the waist down in a car collision.

Understanding of Indiana Dog Bite Laws: We know Indiana Code § 15-20-1-3 inside and out. The one-bite rule, strict liability for government employees, comparative fault—we understand how each affects your case.

Experience with Homeowner’s Insurance Claims: Most dog bite claims get paid through the owner’s homeowner’s insurance. We know these policies backward and forward. What coverage limits typically exist. How to fight insurance companies denying legitimate claims.

Zero Financial Risk: We work exclusively on contingency fees. You don’t pay unless we recover compensation. No consultation fees. No retainers. No hourly bills. We advance all case costs upfront.

Direct Attorney Access: When you work with Pavlack Law, you get direct access to experienced attorneys handling your case personally. We limit our caseload intentionally so every client gets the attention their case demands.

Trial-Ready Advocacy: Insurance companies know we’re fully prepared to take cases to court when they won’t offer fair compensation. We’re admitted to practice in Indiana state courts, the U.S. District Courts for both the Southern and Northern Districts of Indiana, and the U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.

Understanding Indiana Dog Bite Laws

Indiana has unique laws governing dog bite cases. Understanding your rights after an injury from a dog attack is essential for recovering the compensation you deserve.

Indiana’s One-Bite Rule Explained

People misunderstand Indiana’s one-bite rule all the time. They think it means dogs get “one free bite” with no consequences. Not true.

Indiana follows a modified one-bite rule based on common law. A dog owner can be held liable if they knew—or should have known—their dog had dangerous or aggressive tendencies.

What does that mean in practice? If a dog has previously shown aggressive behavior (growling, snapping, lunging at people, charging without provocation), the owner’s on notice their dog poses a danger. When the owner fails to take reasonable steps to prevent harm and the dog bites someone, that owner is liable.

Examples of aggressive behavior putting owners on notice:

• Previous biting incidents
• Growling or showing teeth at strangers
• Lunging or charging at people
• Snapping or attempting to bite
• Aggressive barking while straining against a leash
• History of attacking other animals

Here’s the key point: you don’t need to prove the dog bit someone before. You need to show the owner had reason to know the dog was dangerous.

Strict Liability for Government Employees

Indiana has a specific statute providing strict liability protection for certain workers. Under Indiana Code § 15-20-1-3, if a dog bites any person acting peaceably while discharging duties imposed by state law, federal law, or postal regulations, the owner’s liable regardless of the dog’s history.

So if you’re a postal worker, police officer, firefighter, utility worker, or other government employee performing official duties and a dog bites you? The owner’s automatically liable. Doesn’t matter if the dog never showed aggression before. Doesn’t matter if the owner had no reason to think their dog would bite.

The law recognizes these workers must enter properties as part of their jobs and deserve special protection.

Negligence-Based Claims

Even when the one-bite rule doesn’t apply and you’re not a protected government employee, you can still recover compensation by proving the dog owner was negligent.

Negligence means the owner failed to exercise reasonable care preventing the dog from causing harm. Examples:

• Failing to properly restrain a known aggressive dog
• Allowing a dog to roam off-leash violating local ordinances
• Inadequate fencing letting the dog escape
• Ignoring warning signs that a dog poses danger
• Failing to warn visitors about an aggressive dog
• Not properly training or socializing a dog

Negligence claims can also apply to injuries beyond bites. When a large dog jumps on someone and knocks them down, causing injury, the owner may be liable for negligence even though no bite occurred.

Comparative Fault in Dog Bite Cases

Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule under Indiana Code § 34-51-2-6. Your compensation can be reduced if you share some responsibility for the incident—but only if you’re 50% or less at fault.

Found to be 51% or more at fault? You can’t recover anything.

Dog owners and their insurance companies frequently try shifting blame onto victims by claiming:

• You were trespassing
• You provoked the dog
• You ignored warning signs or “Beware of Dog” notices
• You reached over a fence to pet the dog
• You failed to leave when the dog showed aggression

These defenses can seriously impact your recovery. That’s why having an experienced attorney who knows how to counter these arguments is critical.

Common Causes of Dog Bites in Carmel

Dog bites happen for many reasons. Understanding common causes helps establish liability:

Failure to Properly Restrain Dogs: Owners not keeping their dogs on leashes or behind adequate fences put others at risk. Particularly common in Carmel’s parks and on trails like the Monon Greenway.

Lack of Training or Socialization: Dogs that haven’t been properly trained or socialized with people are more likely to bite when encountering strangers.

Territorial Aggression: Many dog bites occur when dogs perceive someone invading their territory—the owner’s yard, porch, or vehicle.

Dogs Left Unattended with Children: Young children often don’t understand how to interact safely with dogs. Leaving dogs unsupervised with children commonly causes serious bites.

Off-Leash Dogs in Public Areas: Despite local regulations, some owners let their dogs roam off-leash in public spaces where they can approach and bite unsuspecting people.

Inadequate Warning Signs: Property owners with aggressive dogs have a duty to warn visitors. Failure to post adequate warnings can establish negligence.

Neglect or Abuse: Dogs that have been mistreated are more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior and bite.

Types of Dog Bite Injuries We Handle

Dog bites cause injuries ranging from minor scratches to life-threatening wounds.

Physical Injuries

Lacerations and Puncture Wounds: Dog teeth cause deep puncture wounds and tearing lacerations. These wounds often require stitches, surgical repair, extensive cleaning to prevent infection.

Torn Muscles and Ligaments: Large dogs can cause severe soft tissue damage—tearing muscles, tendons, ligaments. These injuries often require surgery and lengthy physical therapy.

Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of a dog attack can break bones, particularly in hands, arms, legs, and facial bones. Children are especially vulnerable to fractures.

Nerve Damage: Dog bites can sever or damage nerves, leading to permanent loss of sensation or function in the affected area.

Infections: Dog bite infections are common and potentially serious. Bacteria in dogs’ mouths can cause infections including cellulitis, sepsis, and MRSA. Rabies, while rare, is also a concern.

Facial Injuries and Disfigurement: Face and neck bites are particularly common in children. Can cause severe disfigurement requiring multiple reconstructive surgeries.

Eye Injuries: Dog attacks can cause eye trauma leading to vision loss or blindness.

Loss of Body Parts: Severe attacks can result in loss of fingers, toes, ears, or other body parts requiring prosthetics.

Scarring and Disfigurement

Many dog bite victims end up with permanent scars. These scars can cause:

• Significant cosmetic disfigurement
• Loss of function if scarring restricts movement
• Need for multiple plastic surgery procedures
• Keloid scarring that’s difficult to treat
• Profound impact on self-esteem and quality of life

Compensation for scarring and disfigurement accounts for both the physical impact and the emotional toll of living with visible reminders of the attack.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

The psychological impact of a dog attack? It can be as devastating as the physical injuries.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Many dog bite victims develop PTSD—flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety related to the attack.

Fear of Dogs: After an attack, victims often develop intense fear of dogs that can be debilitating. This phobia makes it difficult to leave home, visit friends with pets, or walk in neighborhoods where dogs are present.

Anxiety and Depression: The trauma of an attack frequently leads to anxiety disorders and depression requiring ongoing treatment.

Impact on Children: Children bitten by dogs can experience developmental setbacks, behavioral changes, long-term psychological effects requiring therapy.

Sleep Disturbances: Many victims struggle with insomnia, nightmares, sleep anxiety following an attack.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Dog Bites in Carmel?

Determining liability in dog bite cases isn’t always straightforward. Multiple parties may share responsibility:

Dog Owners: The person who owns the dog is typically the primary liable party.

Property Owners: Landlords can sometimes be held liable if they knew a tenant’s dog was dangerous and failed to take action. This requires proving the landlord had actual knowledge of the dog’s aggressive propensities.

Dog Sitters or Walkers: If a professional dog sitter or walker loses control of a dog and it bites someone, they may share liability depending on circumstances.

Kennel or Boarding Facilities: Facilities that board or train dogs can be liable if a dog escapes or bites someone on their premises due to negligence.

Parents of Minor Children: Parents can be held responsible for dog bites caused by dogs owned by their minor children.

Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims

When a dog bite causes you harm, Indiana law lets you pursue several categories of compensation.

Economic Damages

Medical Expenses: All costs related to treating your injuries—emergency room visits, hospitalization, surgery, antibiotics, rabies shots, wound care, physical therapy, plastic surgery, scar revision procedures, ongoing treatment.

Future Medical Care: Many dog bite victims require multiple surgeries over several years addressing scarring and reconstruction. Compensation should account for these future costs.

Lost Wages: Income you’ve lost while unable to work during recovery, including sick leave and vacation time used.

Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous occupation or reduce your ability to earn, you can recover compensation for this permanent impact.

Property Damage: Torn clothing, damaged phones, broken glasses, other personal property destroyed during the attack.

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and Suffering: Physical pain during recovery and any ongoing chronic pain from your injuries.

Emotional Distress: Compensation for anxiety, PTSD, depression, other psychological trauma caused by the attack.

Permanent Scarring and Disfigurement: The lasting impact of visible scars on your appearance, self-confidence, quality of life.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you previously enjoyed, you deserve compensation for this loss.

How Homeowner’s Insurance Works

Most dog bite claims get paid through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. What you need to know:

Coverage Limits: Most policies provide $100,000 to $300,000 in liability coverage. Serious dog bite cases often exceed these limits.

Breed Exclusions: Some insurance policies exclude coverage for certain breeds considered high-risk (pit bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds). This doesn’t prevent you from filing a claim, but it may affect recovery if the owner has no coverage.

Policy Denials: Insurance companies frequently deny dog bite claims by arguing the victim provoked the dog, was trespassing, or the owner didn’t know the dog was dangerous. Why you shouldn’t accept the first insurance offer becomes clear when you realize initial offers rarely account for long-term medical needs and scarring.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Carmel

The actions you take immediately after a dog attack can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if the bite seems minor, get medical treatment. Dog bites carry high infection risk. A doctor will clean the wound, prescribe antibiotics, assess whether you need rabies vaccination, document your injuries for your legal claim.

2. Report the Attack to Carmel Animal Control

File a report with Carmel Animal Control or the Carmel Police Department. This creates an official record of the incident and helps track dangerous dogs. Animal control will investigate and may quarantine the dog to check for rabies.

Carmel Police Department: 3 Civic Square, Carmel, IN 46032 | 317-571-2500

3. Document Everything

Take photos of your injuries immediately and throughout the healing process. Photograph torn or bloodied clothing. Document the location where the attack occurred. If possible, photograph the dog and the property where the attack happened.

4. Get Dog Owner’s Information

Obtain the owner’s name, address, phone number, homeowner’s insurance information. If the owner refuses to provide insurance information, that’s a red flag they know their dog is dangerous.

5. Identify Witnesses

Get contact information from anyone who saw the attack. Witness statements can be critical, especially if the owner claims you provoked the dog.

6. Keep All Medical Records and Bills

Save every document related to your treatment. Medical records and bills form the foundation of your economic damages claim.

7. Don’t Give Recorded Statements to Insurance Companies

The dog owner’s insurance company may contact you quickly asking for a recorded statement. Don’t give one without consulting an attorney first. They’re looking for statements they can use to deny or minimize your claim.

8. Don’t Post on Social Media

Insurance companies monitor social media. Photos of you smiling or doing activities can be used to argue your injuries aren’t serious. Avoid posting anything about the attack or your injuries.

9. Contact Pavlack Law Immediately

Call us at 317-733-5171 before you make any decisions about settling your claim. We’ll protect your rights from day one.

Indiana’s Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims

Under Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4, you’ve got two years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit.

Miss this deadline? You lose your right to pursue compensation forever. Doesn’t matter how severe your injuries are or how clear the owner’s liability might be. The courts will dismiss your case.

Why acting quickly matters:

Evidence Disappears: Witnesses move away. Memories fade. Photos get deleted. The sooner we start investigating, the better evidence we can preserve.

Medical Documentation: Early documentation of your injuries and treatment creates a stronger foundation for your claim.

Insurance Company Tactics: Insurance adjusters may try delaying your claim hoping you’ll miss the statute of limitations or become desperate enough to accept a lowball offer.

Multiple Procedures: If you need plastic surgery or scar revision, these procedures may occur over several years. Starting your claim early ensures we can account for all future medical needs.

Don’t wait. Contact us as soon as possible after your attack.

Local Carmel Dog Laws and Ordinances

While Indiana doesn’t have a statewide leash law, local municipalities like Carmel establish their own regulations.

Carmel’s dog control ordinances typically require:

• Dogs must be restrained on owner’s property or kept on leash in public areas
• Owners must prevent dogs from running at large
• Dangerous dogs may be required to be muzzled in public
• Owners must register dogs with local authorities
• Vaccination requirements for rabies

Violation of these ordinances can establish negligence in a dog bite case. If an owner violated Carmel’s leash law and their dog bit you as a result, this strengthens your claim.

Dangerous Dog Designations: After a dog bite, Carmel Animal Control may designate the dog as dangerous or vicious. This designation can require:

• Muzzling when off the owner’s property
• Special signage on the property
• Higher liability insurance
• Secure enclosures

Dog Bites Involving Children

Children are the most common dog bite victims. According to the CDC, nearly half of all dog bite victims are children, with those ages 5-9 at highest risk.

Why children are vulnerable:

• Smaller size puts face and neck at dog’s level
• Children may not recognize warning signs of aggression
• Kids often approach unfamiliar dogs without caution
• Children may inadvertently provoke dogs through rough play

Common scenarios involving children:

• Bites at a friend’s house by the family dog
• Attacks at parks or playgrounds
• Neighborhood dogs that escape yards
• Visiting relatives’ homes where unfamiliar dogs live

Long-term impact on children:

Facial scarring in children can require multiple surgeries as the child grows. The psychological impact can affect development, school performance, social relationships.

Parents’ rights: Parents can file claims on behalf of injured minor children. The statute of limitations doesn’t begin running until the child turns 18, giving more time to pursue claims. However, waiting isn’t advisable as evidence deteriorates.

Our Process for Handling Dog Bite Cases

When you choose Pavlack Law to represent you after a dog attack, here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Free Case Evaluation

Your initial consultation is completely free with no obligation. We’ll listen carefully to what happened, review photos of your injuries and any documentation you have, answer your questions, provide an honest assessment of your case.

Bring to your consultation:

• Photos of your injuries
• Medical records and bills
• Police or animal control reports
• Dog owner’s contact and insurance information
• Witness contact information
• Any correspondence with insurance companies

Step 2: Investigation

Once you retain our services, we immediately begin investigating your case:

Obtaining Reports: We get copies of police reports, animal control reports, any incident documentation.

Medical Records Review: We collect all medical records documenting your treatment, prognosis, future medical needs.

Witness Interviews: We contact witnesses while their memories are fresh and obtain written or recorded statements.

Dog’s Bite History: We research whether the dog has bitten before by checking animal control records, talking to neighbors, investigating any prior complaints.

Homeowner’s Insurance Investigation: We identify the owner’s insurance carrier, obtain policy information, determine coverage limits.

Scene Documentation: We visit and photograph the location where the attack occurred, looking for evidence of inadequate fencing, lack of warning signs, other negligence.

Step 3: Demand and Negotiation

Once we’ve built a comprehensive case and you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (or we have a clear understanding of future medical needs), we calculate the full value of your claim.

We prepare a detailed demand package including all medical records, bills, photos, expert reports, a comprehensive argument for why the owner’s liable. This package goes to the homeowner’s insurance company.

Many cases settle at this stage. Insurance companies know we’re prepared to file a lawsuit if they won’t make a fair offer. Our reputation and experience provide significant leverage in negotiations.

Step 4: Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to make a reasonable settlement offer, we file a lawsuit in Hamilton County Superior Court.

The litigation process includes:

• Filing the complaint
• Discovery (exchanging documents and information)
• Depositions of you, the dog owner, and witnesses
• Expert witness testimony (medical experts, animal behavior experts)
• Mediation attempts
• Trial preparation
• Courtroom advocacy before a judge and jury

We’re experienced trial attorneys. Insurance companies take our cases seriously because they know we’re ready to go to verdict.

Step 5: Recovery

When we secure a settlement or verdict in your favor, we handle all aspects of finalizing your recovery—resolving medical liens, negotiating reductions in medical bills when possible, disbursing your settlement proceeds promptly.

Our Case Results Speak for Themselves

Over the years, we’ve helped rebuild lives for families throughout Carmel and Hamilton County. Actual results we’ve achieved:

$19,000,000 — Settlement with numerous ready mix concrete suppliers in western Iowa who conspired to fix and inflate their prices to customers.

$6,000,000 — Settlement for the widow and surviving children of a man who died due to negligence.

$4,000,000 — Settlement for a woman paralyzed from the waist down in a car collision.

$1,800,000 — Settlement in medical malpractice case for family of married father of four who died due to failure to diagnose a serious cardiac condition.

$1,250,000 — Settlement for family of young man who was killed in collision with a negligently operated semi.

$925,000 — Settlement for construction worker who was badly injured when he fell through an unmarked opening in roof of commercial construction project.

$750,000 — Settlement for woman who was injured at work when she slipped on untreated ice.

While past outcomes don’t guarantee future results, they demonstrate our ability to handle complex cases and win against well-funded insurance companies.

What Our Clients Say

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Eric Pavlack handled my father’s case with the level of professionalism and care it required. He worked with us for a long while and kept up communication extremely well. Eric oversaw the situation with care even after long periods of waiting. We appreciate all he’s done for us. He is truly exceptional!” — Desirae Michaels

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Eric and his team are top notch. Handled my son’s case with the upmost professionalism. Great communication and responsiveness. Would highly recommend his services.” — Jennifer Hart

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I give my upmost recommendation to Eric and the Pavlack Law team. At my age, 65, when I first inquired about services due to a work injury, I was not optimistic about what could happen for me and my situation. The first thing I can say about my experience is that Eric put my mind at ease. He did not promise the world, but had real conversation and discussed what the best and worst outcomes could be in this situation. Expectations were set not on the outcome, but on the process. I felt he was going to battle for me with his demeanor and explanations the whole way through the experience. During mediation, he helped me get fully prepared and made sure I was aware that the final say was totally up to me. Rest assured you are in good care with Eric and his team. I was extremely happy with the outcome.” — Randy Hartley

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Eric was always there for our family. I highly recommend his law office. A very professional law firm. Thank you and God Bless you” — Joyce Kendall

You can read additional reviews on our Google Business Profile.

About Attorney Eric Pavlack

Attorney Eric Pavlack leads our firm. He’s devoted his entire legal career to representing injured people throughout Indiana.

Eric graduated from Indiana University in 1996 with a B.S. in Biology, then earned his Juris Doctor from Indiana University Maurer School of Law in 1999. He’s practiced personal injury law exclusively since entering the profession.

Bar Admissions:

• State of Indiana
• United States District Court for the Southern District of Indiana
• United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana
• United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit

Professional Memberships:

• Indiana State Bar Association
• Indianapolis Bar Association
• American Association for Justice

Awards and Honors:

• Super Lawyers (2015-2025)
• Super Lawyers Rising Star (2009, 2011-2013)

Attorney Pavlack’s legal work has been featured in prominent media outlets including IndyStar, WRTV Indianapolis, WFYI Public Media, Chicago Tribune, and FOX59 Indianapolis.

Eric and his wife Lorrie are proud parents of two college students. When he’s not advocating for clients, Eric enjoys outdoor activities, cooking, home improvement projects and woodworking, sports, and playing guitar in bands.

Serving Carmel and Hamilton County

Carmel is home to approximately 102,000 residents. The city’s extensive parks, trails, and residential neighborhoods unfortunately also see their share of dog bite incidents.

We represent dog bite victims throughout Carmel, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, Zionsville, Indianapolis, all of Hamilton County, Marion County, and Central Indiana.

Important Local Resources:

Carmel Police Department 3 Civic Square Carmel, IN 46032 317-571-2500

Hamilton County Animal Control Contact through Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office 317-776-2617

Hamilton County Superior Courts One Hamilton County Square Noblesville, IN 46060-2229

Emergency Veterinary Care (for reporting rabies concerns):

• VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center
• Indianapolis area emergency clinics

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a dog bite?

Seek medical attention right away, even for seemingly minor bites. Report the attack to Carmel Police or Animal Control. Document everything with photos. Get the dog owner’s contact and insurance information. Don’t give recorded statements to insurance companies before consulting an attorney.

How much is my dog bite case worth?

Every case has unique circumstances. Value depends on severity of your injuries, extent of scarring, need for future medical care, lost wages, psychological trauma, available insurance coverage. During your free consultation, we can provide a more informed assessment based on your specific situation.

Does Indiana have a one-bite rule?

Yes, but it’s more nuanced than many people realize. A dog owner can be held liable if they knew or should have known their dog had dangerous propensities. This doesn’t mean the dog gets one free bite. Previous aggressive behavior like growling, lunging, or snapping is enough to establish the owner’s knowledge.

What if I was on the dog owner’s property?

You can still recover compensation. The key question is whether you were lawfully on the property. If you were invited (as a guest, contractor, delivery person, etc.) or performing official duties, you weren’t trespassing and can pursue a claim.

Can I sue if the dog was provoked?

Provocation is a defense dog owners frequently raise. However, the threshold for provocation is high. Simply petting a dog, walking past it, or making normal movements typically doesn’t constitute legal provocation. If the owner claims provocation, we’ll investigate and counter this argument.

What if the bite got infected?

Infections are common complications from dog bites. If your bite becomes infected, seek medical attention immediately. The infection and its treatment are part of your compensable damages. Document all infection-related treatment including antibiotics, wound care, or hospitalization if the infection becomes serious.

What if I was bitten by a neighbor’s dog?

Neighborhood dog bites are common. You can still pursue a claim against your neighbor through their homeowner’s insurance. Many people worry about damaging the relationship, but remember that insurance exists to cover these situations. Your neighbor’s premiums won’t necessarily increase, and you deserve compensation for your injuries.

What if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?

You can still pursue a claim directly against the owner’s personal assets. Many homeowners and renters carry liability insurance, but if they don’t, you may need to pursue collection through other means including liens on property or wage garnishment after obtaining a judgment.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim?

Indiana law provides a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the attack. Don’t wait. Evidence disappears, witnesses move away, memories fade. Contact us as soon as possible after your attack.

Will I have to go to court?

Many dog bite cases settle without going to trial. However, we prepare every case as though it will be tried. This preparation provides leverage during settlement negotiations. If the insurance company won’t make a reasonable offer, we won’t hesitate to take your case to court.

What if the dog bite happened at a park or public place?

You can still pursue a claim against the dog owner. The owner has a duty to properly restrain their dog in public places. If they violated leash laws or failed to control their dog, they’re liable for resulting injuries.

Can I sue if a stray dog bit me?

Stray dog cases are more challenging because there’s no identifiable owner. However, if you can determine who owned or was responsible for the dog, you can pursue a claim. We can help investigate to identify the responsible party.

What if my child was bitten?

Parents can file claims on behalf of minor children. Children are entitled to compensation for medical expenses, scarring, psychological trauma, future damages. The statute of limitations doesn’t begin until the child turns 18, but you shouldn’t wait to file a claim.

Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite claim?

While you’re not legally required to hire an attorney, having experienced representation significantly increases your chances of receiving fair compensation. Dog owners and their insurance companies have lawyers protecting their interests. You deserve the same level of representation.

What if the dog owner says I provoked the dog?

This is a common defense tactic. Insurance companies will claim you provoked the attack to avoid paying your claim. We know how to investigate and counter these arguments by gathering witness statements, reviewing the circumstances, presenting evidence that you did nothing to warrant the attack.

How long does a dog bite case take?

The timeline varies depending on severity of your injuries, whether the insurance company negotiates reasonably, whether we need to file a lawsuit. Some cases resolve within a few months. Others may take a year or longer, particularly if litigation becomes necessary or you need multiple surgeries.

What if I was bitten while working as a mail carrier or delivery driver?

You have special protection under Indiana law. The dog owner is strictly liable regardless of whether the dog had any history of aggression. You may also have a workers’ compensation claim. We can help you navigate both claims to maximize your recovery.

Can I get compensation for emotional trauma?

Yes. Non-economic damages include compensation for PTSD, anxiety, depression, other psychological trauma caused by the attack. These damages are just as real as physical injuries and deserve compensation.

Take Action Today: Protect Your Rights

If you’ve been injured by a dog anywhere in Carmel or Hamilton County, time is critical. Evidence needs preserving. The dog’s bite history must be investigated. Insurance companies will start building their defense immediately. The two-year statute of limitations is ticking.

Don’t try navigating Indiana’s complex dog bite laws on your own. Dog owners have homeowner’s insurance companies with teams of lawyers protecting them. You need an experienced attorney advocating for your rights.

Here’s what Pavlack Law offers:

• Free consultations with absolutely no obligation
• No upfront costs, we only get paid when you win
• 50 years of combined experience handling injury cases
• Proven results with millions recovered for clients
• Deep understanding of Indiana’s dog bite statutes
• Experience dealing with homeowner’s insurance companies
• Direct attorney access, not just support staff
• Genuine trial experience in Indiana courts

You’ve got nothing to lose by calling us. We’ll provide straightforward answers about your case and help you understand all your legal options.

Contact Pavlack Law Today

Call us anytime at: 317-733-5171

Or visit our office: Pavlack Law Firm 8955 S Meridian St Indianapolis, IN 46217

We’re available 24/7 for emergencies. If you can’t travel due to your injuries, we’ll come to you.

Don’t let dog owners avoid responsibility for their pet’s actions. Don’t let insurance companies minimize what you deserve. Don’t miss your opportunity to hold the right parties accountable.

Contact Pavlack Law today for your free consultation. Let us handle the legal fight while you focus on your physical and emotional recovery.

Remember: You pay nothing unless we win your case. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.