Dog Bite Attorney in the Minneapolis Area
Dog Bite Injuries
What to know
- Dog bites are among the most common traumatic injuries caused to children.
- The dog owners’ ignorance of the dogs’ biting propensity makes no difference under Minnesota law.
- The dog owner is liable for injuries caused by the dog, even if there was no “attack”.
- No actual “contact” between the dog and the injured person is required.
- As long as the injured person was not trespassing, or provoking the dog, liability is absolute.
In Minnesota, many of the injuries caused by dogs subject the dog owner to strict liability, meaning, other than trespass and provocation of the dog, there are no defenses. The “dog bite” statute applies beyond dog attacks, even to inadvertent injuries. For example, we successfully litigated a case where a Plymouth woman delivering a package was startled by dogs jumping against a patio door. Our client was startled and fell off a deck step and fractured her hip (though there was no contact between her and the dogs). We brought her case to trial and prevailed after the insurer refused to negotiate.
In a different case we represented a Buffalo resident riding bike on a public bike path when a dog ran out to intercept the bike, causing the rider to brake hard and fly over the handlebars. No contact occurred, and after the fall, the dog simply returned to its home. We were able to make a six-figure recovery for the injured person, though there was no evidence to suggest the dog intended to attack.
We definitely can help with any legal issues resulting from dog bites. We have handled numerous simple to complex dog attack cases.
People often assume that unless the dog owner knows of the dog’s biting propensity, the owner is not liable for a dog bite injury. This is false. There is no “one free bite” law in Minnesota. As long as the person injured was lawfully present on the property (including mail carriers and delivery persons) and as long as the injured person was not provoking or antagonizing the dog, the owner has no defenses, whatsoever.
Don’t Wait To File Your Claim
When filing a claim due to an animal attack, time is definitely of the essence. Acting quickly can help strengthen your case and make sure that you are compensated for any physical or emotional damages experienced as a result of the injury – regardless of whether this was their pet’s first injury-causing act. Ensure you understand how negligence laws in your area apply so you recover what the law allows. Call us today at 763-682-1082 for a Free initial consultation.
Free initial consultation, no fee, if no recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions: Dog Bites
What steps should I take after a dog bite?
After a dog bite, prioritize your health and seek medical attention immediately. Identify the dog owner and obtain their contact information. Document the incident by taking photographs of your injuries. Report the incident to the local animal control authorities. Consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in dog bite cases to understand your legal options and pursue compensation for your injuries.
Is the dog owner always liable for a dog bite?
In many cases, the dog owner is liable for a dog bite. However, liability may vary based on factors such as whether the dog had a history of aggressive behavior, if the owner was aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies, and if the victim was trespassing. Consulting with a dog bite attorney can help determine liability and guide you through the legal process.
What kind of compensation can I seek for a dog bite?
Compensation for a dog bite may include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages due to missed work, and pain and suffering. If the dog owner’s negligence or recklessness contributed to the incident, you may be eligible for additional damages. An experienced dog bite attorney can assess the details of your case and help you pursue the appropriate compensation.
Note: The information provided in these FAQs is intended for general informational purposes and should not be considered legal advice. If you require legal advice or assistance specific to your situation, please consult with us today.