Most American states make dog owners liable for dog bites when a person is bitten, based simply on owning the dog that did the biting. A minority requires the dog bite victim to prove that the dog was vicious or that the dog owner or another party caused the incident through negligence or by violating an animal control law (like a leash law). Fortunately for all persons who are involved, the victim's legal damages are covered by most homeowners and renters insurance policies purchased by dog owners, and by general liability policies that insure businesses and public entities.
Only 16,000 dog bite victims receive such insurance payments per year, however, even though about 5 million Americans are bitten. For that reason, the services of Attorney Kenneth M. Phillips and other lawyers who represent victims are rendered without charge unless and until money is recovered. For more information about getting a lawyer, read Does an Adult Need a Lawyer for a Dog Bite Claim? or Should Parents Get a Lawyer for Their Injured Child?
To learn more if you are a dog bite victim, read Plain English Overview of Dog Bite Law. Dog owners, attorneys, canine professionals and others should click "Articles" at the top of this page.
