Can a person bit by a dog sue the owner?

On Behalf of | Feb 5, 2021 | Personal Injury |

Being bitten by a dog could result in significant injuries and damages. In Alabama, the law permits a person who suffers a dog bite injury to pursue the owner for compensation.

Under certain circumstances, the owner of a dog is liable if their dog bites or injures someone. If a person is on the dog owner’s property at the time of the dog bite, the owner might have to pay for the injured person’s damages. Owner obligation to reimburse for damages also may ensue if their dog chases a person off the owner’s property and then bites the person.

A person bitten or injured by a dog may hold the owner responsible only if the person had a right to be on the owner’s property. Examples of persons with a legal right to be on another person’s property could include invited guests, mail carriers and public utility workers.

The dog owner may be able to reduce their liability for injuries caused by their dog. If the owner proves that they had no knowledge that their dog was a threat to anyone, the law limits the owner’s accountability to the injured person’s actual expenses.

Damages recoverable from a dog bite

Otherwise, the owner of a dog who causes an injury is potentially liable for several kinds of damages. Someone injured by a dog may recover for their medical expenses, physical scarring, pain and suffering, emotional distress and lost wages. In some cases, injured persons could receive an additional award called punitive damages.

Anyone in Mobile, Alabama, who is injured by a dog bite may have a legal claim. Bringing a successful lawsuit for personal injuries and damages is a challenge. Knowledgeable lawyers may guide the injured person during the case and on to recovery.