A Legal Source for Dog Bite Victims
In the USA there is a specific law regarding dog bites, called the Dog Bite Law. Its basis is that dog owners are liable for all dog bites simply because they are the guardians of the animal. In the case that there are legal damages, this is usually covered by a homeowner or renter's insurance policy that may have been purchased by the dog owner. The sad fact is that only 16,000 bite victims receive insurance payments, where the incidence of cases is around 5 million per year.
The dog bite law is made to protect both people and other dogs who are bitten. In theory, the dog owner is liable if he or she was aware previous to the incident that his or her dog has a tendency to bite people. This same law also covers any liability that may arise from injuries from other domestic animals. Don't get caught up on the word bite in the name of this law, as it's not totally accurate, it may be damage to property or one's person - even by being tripped by an unruly dog. The important thing for the victim is to prove that the dog or animal has had previous aggressive behavior.
The dog bite law is made to protect both people and other dogs who are bitten. In theory, the dog owner is liable if he or she was aware previous to the incident that his or her dog has a tendency to bite people. This same law also covers any liability that may arise from injuries from other domestic animals. Don't get caught up on the word bite in the name of this law, as it's not totally accurate, it may be damage to property or one's person - even by being tripped by an unruly dog. The important thing for the victim is to prove that the dog or animal has had previous aggressive behavior.
