Dog Bite Attorney in Owensboro

Determining who’s responsible for your dog bite injury can be a complex process. While you may believe the owner is always the responsible party, this isn’t always the case. Some of the scenarios when the dog’s owner may not be the liable party in your personal injury case can include,

1. When someone other than the owner is responsible for controlling and/or caring for the dog.
2. The dog is owned by a minor.
3. The dog’s owner is renting their home, and the landlord is aware of the dog’s potentially dangerous behavior and hasn’t taken adequate safety precautions.

These are a few examples of when the dog’s owner may not be solely responsible for the bite. 

However, local laws can vary, so it’s best to familiarize yourself with the statutes before filing a personal injury claim.

Here’s a look at when someone other than the dog’s owner may be the negligent party.

Temporary Caregivers/Dog Sitters

When dog owners go on vacation or work extended hours, it’s not uncommon for them to hire a temporary caretaker. This individual is responsible for ensuring the dog has food, water, and adequate living arrangements. The caretaker assumes the role of the dog owner, and this means ensuring everyone’s safety. If the dog gets loose and bites someone, the caretaker is negligent.

Professional Caregivers

Some jobs qualify as professional caregivers. This includes animal shelter staff, vet technicians, dog groomers, and professional walkers. These are individuals who assume the care and responsibility of the animal while it’s in their possession. This means they are responsible for keeping the dog constrained either in a kennel, at home, or on a leash. If the dog gets loose and bites someone, the caregiver is at fault.

A side note: if the owner doesn’t disclose all information about the dog to the caregiver, they may also be named as a defendant in the personal injury lawsuit.

Others who can be responsible for a dog bite can include property owners. If the property owner’s tenant owns the dog, the landlord can also be held liable. Parents of minors, if their child is the dog owner, can also be named in a dog bite lawsuit.

Morgan & Morgan is the nation’s largest personal injury law firm, and we have a proven track record of success. We have recovered over $20 billion in damages for our clients and can work to help ensure you receive full compensation. Contact Morgan & Morgan today to schedule a free consultation with one of our specialists.