Law Library Articles

Top 10 Dog Bite Articles in the LegalMatch Law Library

Only about one person per year dies of a spider bite in the United States. Meanwhile, dog bites kill 30 people or more in the United States every year. Apparently, the human catalogue of primal fears forgot to include fluffy, long-tongued brutes we naively refer to as “man’s best friend.”

If you spend some time browsing the websites of personal injury attorneys, you will notice that many of them actually list “dog bites” among their standard areas of practice. That’s another strike against dogs. They may look fluffy and cute, but they’re out there right this moment causing lawsuits all over the country. If a moral can be learned from the following list of Top 10 Dog Bite Articles, maybe it’s that we should all give up our dogs and keep poisonous spiders as pets instead?

1. Can I Sue for the Injury or Death of My Pet?

If someone else’s negligence causes your pet to be injured or killed, you may be able to sue them. The law often views pets as property, which can limit the amount of damages you can recover. This article discusses the legal options available when your pet is harmed.

2. Dog Attack Criminal Liability

In some cases, a dog owner can face criminal charges after a serious attack. This usually happens when the owner knew their dog was dangerous and failed to control it. The penalties can include fines and even jail time.

3. Owner Liability for Dog Bites or Attacks

A dog’s owner is generally held responsible when their animal bites someone. State laws vary, with some holding owners strictly liable. Others look at whether the owner had reason to believe their dog was aggressive.

4. Animal Attack Lawyers

An animal attack lawyer can help you if you have been injured by someone else’s pet. They can explain the specific laws in your area. An attorney will also help you gather evidence to support your claim for compensation.

5. Cat Owner’s Liability

While less common than dog bite cases, cat owners can also be held liable for injuries their pets cause. This can include bites, scratches, or even falls caused by the cat. The rules for proving owner fault can be different than in dog bite cases.

6. When Dogs Kill or Injure Livestock

A dog that attacks livestock like sheep or chickens can cause significant financial loss for a farmer. Special laws often apply in these situations. A dog’s owner is usually responsible for the value of the animals that were killed or injured.

7. Personal Injury Liability at Stores That Allow Pets

When a store allows customers to bring their pets inside, it takes on a certain amount of risk. If a dog bites someone in the store, the business could be held partly responsible. This article explores how liability is shared between the pet owner and the store.

8. Dangerous Dogs in California

California has specific laws for dealing with dogs that have shown aggressive behavior. A dog may be officially declared “potentially dangerous” or “vicious.” This designation places extra responsibilities on the dog’s owner.

9. Is a Dog Sitter Liable for Dog Bites?

Determining who is at fault when a dog bites someone while with a sitter can be tricky. In many cases, the dog’s owner is still the responsible party. However, if the sitter was negligent in their duties, they could also be held liable.

10. Statute of Limitations for Animal Bites

If you are injured by an animal, you have a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit. This deadline is called the statute of limitations, and it varies by state. It is important to know your state’s deadline, or you could lose your right to sue.