Every year, over 800,000 people (one person every 40 seconds) are bitten by a dog in the U.S. Unfortunately, most dog bite victims are children. Studies show that dog attacks are the leading cause of hospital visits by youngsters.
Because the injured party’s friend, family or neighbor usually owns the dog in question, many are reluctant to pursue an injury claim stemming from a dog bite. In nearly every case, however, a homeowner’s insurance policy will fund the settlement.
INJURIES COMMONLY SUFFERED BY DOG BITE VICTIMS
The vast majority of dog bite lawsuits involve serious lacerations to the head or face, often resulting in unnecessary scarring to the cheeks, chin, lips or nose. Nerve damage may also result. Other dog bite injuries include broken bones, puncture wounds and crushed eye sockets. In addition to physical injuries, a dog bite can cause significant emotional trauma.
STRICT LIABILITY IN MINNESOTA DOG BITE LAWSUITS
In Minnesota, dog owners are strictly liable when their pet bites another person. No negligence must be proven. Liability for the injury is assigned regardless of the owner’s knowledge (or lack thereof) of viciousness on the part of their pet. Under Minnesota law the owner of any dog that attacks or injures any person in a location that the victim may lawfully be present is liable for injuries caused by the dog. There is an exclusion if the victim provokes the dog.
TYPICAL BREEDS THAT BITE PEOPLE
While any dog, including toy breeds, can attack, some larger, aggressive breeds are more likely to bite, including:
- Rottweilers;
- German Shepherds;
- Dobermans;
- Akitas;
- Chows;
- Bull Terriers; and
- Pit Bulls
TRIAL ATTORNEYS WHO WILL PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS
At the Brown Law Offices, P.A. we represent clients who have suffered a serious injury as the result of a dog bite. Our lawyers are dedicated to protecting the rights of the injured and have obtained many favorable settlements for injury victims. Dog bite cases are accepted on a contingency basis, so you pay no fee unless we make a recovery on your behalf.