Dogs are a common part of many families in North Dakota. While they normally make excellent companions, sometimes dogs can misbehave and end up biting people. While dog bites might seem minor on adults, they can have serious and lasting damage on a child.
If your child is bitten and injured by a dog, you have a right to file a claim against the owner. Doing so can be a vital step in securing your child’s recovery and future health.
Seeking treatment and documenting everything
Getting your child treated immediately is crucial after they get bitten. Dog bites in children have a higher risk of infection and can require stitches or surgery. Moreover, you may need to get preventative rabies treatment for your child if the dog is not vaccinated for it.
Asking the provider to document the full extent of the injuries can provide crucial support when you file a claim. These medical records can help connect your child’s injury to the incident with the dog.
Compensation you can seek from the dog owner
You can file a personal injury claim against the dog owner for your child’s injuries. Some damages you request compensation for include:
- Current and future medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Your lost wages
- Surgery costs
- Emotional distress
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Counseling for your child
Most of the time, the dog owner’s homeowners insurance will cover the claim so a negotiation may take place before you can receive compensation.
Navigating North Dakota’s dog bite laws
Since North Dakota does not have a specific dog bite statute, claims are usually handled under a general negligence system. Dog owners may be responsible if they knew or should have known that their dog was aggressive. They can also be liable for negligence even without a prior bite.
While you may be able to establish the careless behavior through evidence, the other party may use comparative negligence as a defense. This means that if you are more than 50 percent at fault for your child’s injuries, you cannot recover damages from your claim. Seeking legal guidance can help you challenge these defenses while fighting for a favorable outcome.
Promoting responsible pet ownership
Pursuing compensation after a dog bite is not just about protecting your child’s well-being. Your claim can also hold the dog’s owner accountable while encouraging safer behavior to prevent another child from getting hurt.