Dog Bites
Dogs and the Law: What are your responsibilities?
In some states, dogs are given “one free bite” before any liability is imposed. Not so in our state of California. California Courts impose “strict liability” with respect to dog bites.
What this means is that a dog owner is liable for the injuries caused when their dog bites or attacks a person, even if they had no reason to suspect that the dog was dangerous. The plaintiff does not need to prove that the owner was negligent, or that the owner should have known that the dog would bite or attack. If your dog injures a person, you will be liable to pay for the damages.
Dog attacks can result in significant medical costs. It’s easy to protect yourself if you’re a dog owner.
What this means is that a dog owner is liable for the injuries caused when their dog bites or attacks a person, even if they had no reason to suspect that the dog was dangerous. The plaintiff does not need to prove that the owner was negligent, or that the owner should have known that the dog would bite or attack. If your dog injures a person, you will be liable to pay for the damages.
Dog attacks can result in significant medical costs. It’s easy to protect yourself if you’re a dog owner.
- Keep your dog on a leash.
- Keep your dog away from strangers, particularly children.
- Finally, train your dog so that you can have confidence that your dog won’t react in a negative way in a strange situation.
