Dog Bite / PREMISE LIABILITY

U.S. DOG BITE & PREMISE LIABILITY CLAIMS

Dog bite injuries can cause severe physical trauma, infections, permanent scarring, and emotional distress. Liability rules for animal attacks vary by U.S. state:

Strict Liability vs. One-Bite Rule:

- Strict Liability States: In many jurisdictions, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog had any prior history of aggression or viciousness.

- One-Bite Rule States: In some states, an owner is liable only if they knew or reasonably should have known that the animal had dangerous propensities (e.g., prior bites or aggressive behavior).

Insurance Coverage & Recoverable Damages:

- Homeowner's & Renter's Liability Insurance: Claims are typically covered under the dog owner's homeowner or renter liability insurance policy.

- Recoverable Damages: Victims can recover full compensation for emergency medical care, surgeries, reconstructive plastic surgery, rabies/infection treatments, psychological counseling, permanent disfigurement/scarring damages, and lost income.