Dogs (and their owners) don’t get one free bite in Minnesota, a “strict liability” state. Dog owners are liable in most circumstances if someone else is injured by their pet. This seems perfectly rational to most people. Americans certainly love their dogs, but with the companionship comes a responsibility.
Dog Bites Send 900 People to the ER Every Day
Serious dog bites are a common occurrence.
* The CDC estimates that about 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year.
* More than 316,000 people are sent to the hospital emergency rooms for treatment – many of the victims are children.
* Reconstructive surgery is needed after being bitten by 28,000 people.
* For children, dog bites are the fifth most common reason for a visit to the ER. Imagine how scared and traumatized these children are. Many will suffer permanent emotional and physical scars from the attack.
There’s a Deadline for Filing a Lawsuit
In Minnesota, a lawsuit for any type of personal injury case must be filed within two years from the date of the injury. You will lose your right to sue the dog’s owner if you wait longer than that. Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney in Rochester MN long before the statute of limitations expires.
The Dog Bite Law
Minnesota’s dog bite law says that the dog’s owner is strictly liable for someone’s injuries if the bite victim:
* Was legally allowed to be in that location, such as public property or had a legal right to be on private property (such as a guest or the postman)
* Was acting peaceably
* Didn’t provoke the dog
It isn’t necessary to prove that the owner of the dog was negligent. It doesn’t matter if this was the dog’s first bite. The dog bite law also applies to other injuries caused by a dog. For example, if someone falls and is injured after being jumped on by a dog, they are also allowed to seek compensation for their injuries.
The dog’s owner normally can only offer two defenses – the dog was provoked or the victim was trespassing.
If you’ve been seriously injured by a dog or in an accident, call Rolsch Law Offices and speak to Steve Rolsch personally. This experienced Personal Injury Attorney in Rochester MN is committed to providing effective and personalized law service. Click Here to visit the website and call Steve at 507.280.1943.