Dogs can be beloved companions and an important member of the family. They are still animals, however, with an animal’s instincts and ability to inflict serious injuries. In many cases, a dog bite victim knows the owner of the dog who caused his or her injuries. If the owner is a friend or relative, the victim may feel reluctant to pursue compensation. Studies show, however, that the psychological injuries that follow a dog attack can linger for years, especially in children. In addition, a dog bite can often inflict nerve damage and usually results in permanent scarring. Victims of dog attacks owe it to themselves to pursue full and fair compensation for their physical and emotional injuries.
The Dog Owner’s Liability Act
Fortunately, Ontario law holds dog owners strictly liable for the injuries their animals inflict. This means that a dog’s owner does not need to act negligently for the owner to be held responsible for the victim’s injuries. Under The Dog Owner’s Liability Act, the owner (or owners if there are multiple owners) is responsible for the victim’s damages regardless of what the owner knew about the dog’s behaviour or inclination to bite. In the majority of cases, a dog bite victim will receive compensation for his or her injuries. Usually, the dog owner’s own insurance policy responds to such cases.
Many breeds of dogs have powerful jaws, and they can inflict devastating injuries. Dog bite victims in Ontario have recovered damages for the following dog bite-related injuries:
- Broken bones
- Nerve damage
- Lacerations
- Amputations
- Organ and tissue damage
- Scarring and skin grafts
- Torn muscles
- Infection
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog, it is important to work with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer experienced with dog bite cases.
Lomax Law Firm
Rein Lomax has helped the injured and their families in Ontario for nearly two decades. Contact Lomax Law Firm today at (519) 488-9378 for a complimentary consultation regarding your legal matter.
This website has been prepared by Lomax Law Firm for informational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. The information is not provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship and is not intended to substitute for legal advice from an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.