Your Northern Minnesota Personal Injury Attorneys

Important information for Minnesota dog bite victims

On Behalf of | Feb 27, 2023 | Dog Attacks

Dog bite injuries can have catastrophic consequences leaving the victim facing extensive medical care. Since the laws governing dog bite injuries vary by state, many people experience confusion and uncertainty after a bite.

There are a couple of things everyone should understand about dog bite injury laws in Minnesota.

There is no need to prove negligence

Minnesota is a strict negligence state for dog bite injuries. That means that anyone suffering a dog bite does not have to prove negligence on the part of the owner to file a claim and seek restitution. As long as you did not provoke the dog and were not trespassing, you may have grounds for a claim.

Liability is not solely on the owner

In some states, the dog’s owner is the only one deemed liable after a bite. Minnesota’s dog bite laws permit a bite victim to hold others liable if the dog was in someone else’s control when the bite occurred. This includes:

  • Veterinarians
  • Dog trainers
  • Dog walkers
  • Friends of the owner

In some instances, you can hold both the owner and the individual caring for the dog liable for the bite.

You can get restitution for many expenses

Dog bite victims can get restitution for medical care, lost earnings, therapy services and pain and suffering.

If you experienced a dog bite, understand your legal rights to compensation. Consider who was in control of the dog and gather documentation of your expenses so that you get a settlement that covers all of your costs.

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