Dog bite: liability and personal injury

Liane FoeLawyer

A dog bite can cause significant physical and psychological damage. Therefore, it is essential to know who is liable and what steps you can take to recover personal injury damages.

Liability for a dog bite

In the Netherlands, the owner of a dog is usually liable for the damage caused by the animal. According to Article 6:179 of the Civil Code, the owner of an animal is responsible for the damage caused by the animal, unless liability would be absent if he had had control over the animal’s conduct.

This means that the owner may be liable even if he was not directly at fault for the incident. Exceptions may apply in specific situations, such as when the victim provoked the dog.

Steps after a dog bite

1. Seek medical attention: Have the wound treated immediately to prevent infection. A tetanus shot may be necessary.
2. Collect data: Record the contact information of the dog owner and any witnesses. This is crucial for any liability claim.
3. Photograph the injuries: Take clear photos of the bite wounds for evidence.
4. File a report: Consider reporting to the police, especially if the owner is unknown or uncooperative.
5. Get legal advice: Engage a personal injury lawyer to protect your rights and claim compensation.

Compensation for personal injury caused by a dog

As a dog bite victim, you may be entitled to compensation. This may include:

• Medical expenses: Reimbursement for treatments, medication and any therapies.
• Loss of income: Compensation for lost income due to disability.
• Smart money: Compensation for pain, suffering and diminished quality of life.
• Other expenses: For example, travel expenses to the hospital or costs for domestic help.

It is important to properly document and keep all expenses and damages for the personal injury case.

Prevention of dog bites

While not all incidents are preventable, the following measures can reduce the risk of a dog bite:

• Avoid unfamiliar dogs: Do not approach strange dogs without the owner’s permission.
• Learn to recognize dog behavior: Watch for signs of fear or aggression in dogs.
• Educating children: Teach children how to safely interact with dogs and when to keep their distance.

Conclusion

A dog bite can have far-reaching consequences. It is therefore essential to take immediate action, both medical and legal. By following the right steps, you can limit the damage and secure your right to appropriate compensation.