What is Strict Liability (Animals)?
A legal doctrine in many states holding dog owners automatically liable for bite injuries regardless of whether they knew the dog was dangerous or took precautions.
Understanding Strict Liability (Animals)
In strict liability states, the victim doesn't need to prove the owner was negligent or knew of the dog's dangerous tendencies. The owner is liable simply because their dog caused injury. Some states have exceptions for provocation or trespassing.
Examples
- 1Owner liable for first-time bite in strict liability state
- 2No defense that owner had no warning signs
- 3Provocation by victim reducing or eliminating liability
Related Terms
Dog Bite Liability
The legal responsibility of a dog owner for injuries caused when their dog bites or attacks someone, which varies by state law.
Negligence
The failure to exercise the level of care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in similar circumstances, resulting in harm to another person or their property.
One-Bite Rule
A legal doctrine in some states where a dog owner is only liable for bite injuries if they knew or should have known their dog had dangerous propensities.
Dangerous Dog
A legal classification for dogs that have shown aggressive behavior, bitten someone, or are deemed a threat to public safety, often resulting in special restrictions on the owner.
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