Dog bite laws in U.S. discusses rights and responsibilities of the victim and the dog owner. If you or one of your loved ones is bitten by a dog, it is best to contact a dog bite attorney as soon as possible to discuss any legal and financial remedies as a result of the attack.

Owners are Responsible and Liable for Dogs

Dog bite laws hold the dog owner responsible for all the injuries caused by the dog, whether the attack took place on public or private property. Depending on the state that you live in, your local jurisdiction may hold the dog owner responsible for any damages incurred if the dog trespassed. This part of the law makes the dog owner responsible for limiting the dog to his own territory, or else the owner will be held responsible for the damages and losses.

Negligence

If the pet owner happens to overlook the dangerous behavior of the dog, and if dog injurs a person or another animal, then the owner of the pet may be held liable for the dog’s actions. The legal term which is commonly used for the owner’s knowledge of the foreseeable harm due to the pet is ‘scienter’.

There are different ways of establishing a scienter, and it is the responsibility of the dog bite lawyer to determine whether or not you will be entitled to monetary compensation for the attack.

Dog bite laws in U.S. differs from state to state. Many states hold owners responsible for the injury or damage, irrespective of the dog’s behavior in the past. That means that the dog owner may be held responsible for the dog’s action even if the dog has not exhibited any aggressive behavior in the past. Research and retain a qualified dog bite attorney for any of your legal or monetary dog bite related issues.