Dog Attacks and Personal Injury Claims

When a dog bites or attacks someone, there are certain scenarios in which the owner will be to blame. If the owner is at fault, the injured person is entitled to make a personal injury claim for compensation.

When can you claim for a dog bite?

In British Columbia, you can make a personal injury claim for a dog bite or dog attack if any of the following apply –

1. The dog has a history of violence

The general rule of thumb is that a dog can behave dangerously once. After this, the owner should be aware of the dog’s inclination to bite or attack. This is commonly known as the ‘one bite rule’. The owner should then take all reasonable steps to minimise the risk to others. If the dog subsequently bites or attacks a human, the owner is accountable.

2. The owner was negligent

If the owner fails to control their dog, he/she may be considered negligent. For example, a child could be bitten by a dog in a playground, even though dogs are not permitted there. Or perhaps an attack happens in an on-lease area, yet the dog is off-leash. In such cases, the owner has failed to behave responsibly, making them to blame for the incident.

3. Occupier’s liability

If you are injured by a dog while on the owner’s property, you could make a claim under the Occupier’s Liability Act. According to the law, the owner or occupier of a premises has a duty to protect the health and safety of visitors. So, if you call in to see your neighbour and their dog bites you, your neighbour is at fault.

Dog bite lawyers Vancouver

There are very specific instances in which it is possible to make a claim for a dog bite or dog attack. If you have been injured by a dog, or your child has, contact our dog bite lawyers in Vancouver. We can explain whether or not you are entitled to claim compensation, and can explain more about what the process involves.

Lots of people who have been attacked by a dog have concerns about making a claim. Common questions include – what will happen to the dog? And what if the owner cannot afford to pay out compensation? We can provide the answers to these questions, putting your mind at rest.

To find out more about dog attacks and personal injury claims, contact us for a free consultation. Either fill in the free online enquiry form or call us on 604 684 0040.

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