Minneapolis Dog Bite Attorneys

Proving Negligence in a Dog Bite Claim

To recover damages in a dog bite claim, the victim bears the burden of proof of establishing liability on the part of the defendant. It’s important to understand that the mere existence of a dog bite injury isn’t sufficient to collect compensation. 

To successfully prove negligence in a dog bite lawsuit, the plaintiff must establish four critical elements: 

• The dog owner owed you a duty of care. For example, they had a responsibility to properly restrain their dog or warn others of the dangers posed by their pet.
• The owner breached that duty of care by acting negligently, such as allowing their dog to run loose or failing to provide proper training.
• The breach of duty caused your injuries. In this case, it means the dog bite would not have occurred if the owner had acted responsibly.
• You suffered actual damages as a result of the dog bite, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or emotional distress.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Dog Bite Claim?

Victims of dog bites may recover a variety of damages depending on the circumstances of the attack and the extent of their injuries. These damages often fall into three categories:

Economic Damages

Economic damages compensate for the tangible financial losses incurred because of the dog bite. These may include:

• Medical expenses: Past and future costs for emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, or psychological counseling.
• Lost wages: Income lost during recovery or time off required for medical appointments.
• Loss of earning capacity: If the injuries lead to long-term or permanent disability.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the intangible effects of a dog bite on a victim’s life. These damages often include:

• Pain and suffering: Settlement for the physical pain endured due to the injuries.
• Emotional distress: Damages for anxiety, depression, or trauma caused by the attack.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: If the injury stops the victim from partaking in activities they once enjoyed.
• Disfigurement: Compensation for permanent scars or physical changes caused by the bite.
• Punitive Damages: In instances where the dog owner acted with severe negligence or malice, punitive damages could be granted. These damages aim to penalize the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.

5 Essential Tips to Prevent Dog Bites 

It’s important to know what to do if you come into contact with a strange dog or animal showing signs of aggression. 

Some essential safety tips to keep in mind include: 

• Don’t run past a dog. Dogs love to chase things, so this can encourage them to become excited and chase after you.
• Don't approach a dog that is tethered or confined to an area. The dog may feel threatened and attack to defend itself.
• If a dog approaches you, stay still. In most cases, after sniffing you, the dog will determine that you are not a threat, and it will move away.
• If you're threatened by a dog, remain calm. Don't scream. If you must speak, be sure to do so calmly and firmly. Avoid eye contact with the animal so the dog doesn't perceive you as a threat or territorial challenge.
• If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your head and neck to protect your face and neck from serious injuries.