Being bitten by a dog can result in physical harm, emotional trauma, and financial losses. In Utah, dog bite victims have legal rights to seek compensation for their injuries. This article provides an overview of laws related to dog bites in Utah and the legal options available to victims.
Utah Dog Bite Laws
Utah is a “strict liability” state when it comes to dog bites. This means that an owner is liable for any injury caused by their dog, even if it is the first time the dog has bitten someone.
Under Utah statute, a dog owner is legally responsible for any damages suffered by a person bitten by their dog, regardless of whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous. The victim does not have to prove the owner knew or should have known the dog had vicious tendencies. Strict liability applies as long as the victim was in a public place or lawfully on private property when the bite occurred.
The only exceptions are if the victim was trespassing or abusing the dog. Strict liability laws are designed to promote responsible pet ownership and protect public safety.
Seeking Compensation for Injuries
When a dog bite causes injuries and damages, the victim can recover compensation through a personal injury lawsuit or insurance claim. Common damages include:
- Medical expenses, both immediate and long-term
- Lost wages due to missing work
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
The exact amount of compensation depends on the severity of the injuries. Victims may also be able to recover punitive damages if the owner’s negligence was extreme.
Homeowner’s Insurance
Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance often covers dog bite liability. The injured person can file a claim directly with the dog owner’s insurance company. The limit is typically $100,000 to $300,000 but can be higher with an umbrella policy.
Filing a Lawsuit
If insurance does not fully cover the damages or the owner is uninsured, a dog bite lawyer can help file a personal injury lawsuit. This involves proving liability, determining damages, negotiating a settlement, or taking the case to court.
Settlements are common and may be reached before or after filing a lawsuit. If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial where a judge or jury determines if the owner is liable, as well as the amount of damages owed to the victim.
Statute of Limitations
Dog bite victims in Utah must file a lawsuit within 4 years of the bite or injury occurring under the statute of limitations for personal injury cases. While this is much longer than most other states, it is important to act quickly to obtain evidence of the bite and preserve the right to take legal action.
Get Help from a Utah Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog bites often result in physical scarring, emotional trauma, and large medical bills. At Monge & Associates, our experienced dog bite lawyers help victims recover damages from negligent owners and their insurance companies. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury in Utah, contact us for a free consultation at (888) 477-0597. We have 32 offices located in 19 states, including Utah, Arizona, and Maryland. Our team will evaluate your case and fight for maximum compensation.