Are you liable if a dog bites someone while they are on your property? It depends on the circumstances surrounding the bite. However, you could be legally responsible if a dog bites a guest, a solicitor, or even someone trespassing on the property.
Dog Bite Lawsuits
Laws differ by state, so it is best to speak with an attorney to learn your liability. However, it often boils down to the standard of care. A person entering your property doesn’t expect to be injured. To reduce the risk of this happening, those who live on the property must provide a reasonably safe environment. When it comes to dogs, you need to keep them away from guests if they are dangerous. In addition, put signs up around the property warning guests and intruders of the dog’s presence. Doing so alerts them to the danger so they can proceed with caution. Talk with an idaho personal injury lawyer to learn other measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of a dog biting someone on the property.
Leash Laws
Leash laws are present in many cities and states. These laws govern the responsibilities of dog owners. If the animal bites someone when they are not on a leash, the owner is strictly liable for the injuries. The injured party won’t be required to provide proof that the owner was negligent in some way. They can sue for property damage, medical expenses, and more.
Certain states, however, have put a one-bite rule in place. The owner isn’t liable the first time their dog bites someone. They won’t be required to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and more for the victim. Their insurance company will not be required to pay out any funds either.
Guests on the Property
A homeowner or tenant owes anyone on the property a duty of reasonable care. If the dog bites a person and they can show the owner didn’t use reasonable care to control the dog, they can sue for damages and will probably win. An easy way to avoid this scenario is to post signs warning guests about the dog.
Unauthorized Visitors
People trespassing on a property might find they can sue for damages if attacked by a dog when doing so. However, that is not the case in all states. The victim should talk to an attorney to learn the laws of their state. Furthermore, they need to share information about the victim of the attack because some states differentiate between adults and children when determining whether the dog owner may be liable for the injuries.
Dangerous Propensities
Once a dog attacks a person or lunges at them aggressively, they are considered to have dangerous propensities. When a dog has been designated as such, the owner is liable for any damages the dog does to a person or their property. There is one exception. If the dog owner puts up a sign warning others about the dog, they have provided fair warning. They might also choose to use a leash or a muzzle to prevent the dog from biting another person.
Will Insurance Cover the Damages?
Homeowners’ or renters’ insurance might cover any damages inflicted by the dog. However, every person must read their policy carefully, as certain breeds might be excluded from this coverage. If this is the case, They might wish to purchase a separate policy to cover any damages caused by their dog. Without this insurance, the owner becomes responsible for any settlement owed to the victim as determined by the court.
A dog bite can be very dangerous. If your dog attacks someone, contact an attorney for help right away. They can provide information about the steps you need to take to protect yourself from a hefty settlement.
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