Tag Archives: Dog Bite Lawsuits

Navigating the Legal Terrain: Dog Bite Claims in Indiana

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Dog bites can lead to serious injuries and emotional trauma. When such an unfortunate incident occurs, knowing the legal landscape can be crucial. Welcome to our dive into the world of dog bite claims in Indiana.

This comprehensive guide aims to equip victims and their families with the necessary knowledge to navigate the legal terrain in the aftermath of a dog attack. Whether you’re considering a dog bite lawsuit, seeking the assistance of a dog bite lawyer, or just trying to understand your rights, this post aims to be a valuable resource for you. Join us as we explore the intricacies of dog bite claims in the Hoosier State.

Call 317-881-2700 to Speak With a Dog Bite Attorney Near Indianapolis
Call 317-881-2700 to Speak With a Dog Bite Attorney Near Indianapolis

Understanding Indiana’s Dog Bite Laws

Each state in the US has its own set of laws governing dog bites, and Indiana is no exception. The Hoosier State follows, in general, a negligence liability rule when it comes to dog bite claims. This means that dog owners are held responsible for any injuries or damages caused by their dogs if they knew about the dog’s aggressive tendencies. Breed of dog can also play a factor.

Additionally, Indiana does not have a specific statute addressing dog bites in most scenarios. Instead, it falls under the state’s general negligence laws. As such, victims must prove that the dog owner was negligent in handling their dog, resulting in the injury. This could include proving that the owner failed to properly restrain or control their dog or failed to warn others of their dog’s aggressive behaviors.  Some cities and counties or other municipalities do have their own dog bite laws in some circumstances though.

The Importance of Seeking Legal Representation

Navigating the legal terrain of a dog bite claim can be complicated and overwhelming, especially for those who have suffered physical and emotional trauma. In such cases, seeking the assistance of an Indianapolis dog bite lawyer is crucial. An experienced attorney in this field will help victims understand their rights and guide them through the legal process, from filing a claim to negotiating a settlement and representing them in court.

Moreover, having legal representation can also increase the chances of receiving full and fair compensation for damages such as hospital bills, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A knowledgeable dog bite attorney will be able to assess the extent of the damages and fight for the maximum compensation that the victim is entitled to under Indiana law.

Time Limitations for Filing a Dog Bite Lawsuit

It’s important to note that there are time limitations for filing a dog bite lawsuit in Indiana. According to Indiana Code section 34-11-2-4, victims have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. If the lawsuit is filed after this time period, it is likely that the court will dismiss the case but again, all cases are fact specific.

However, there are exceptions to this statute of limitations. For instance, if the victim is a minor or was incapacitated at the time of the attack, then the two-year time period may be extended. Additionally, if the dog’s owner was charged with a crime related to the attack, then the victim may have up to six years to file a civil claim.

Final Thoughts

Dog bites cause physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial strain. As such, it is important for victims to understand their rights and options when it comes to seeking compensation for damages. If you or a loved one has been a victim of a dog bite in Indiana, it is crucial to seek legal representation and guidance from an experienced dog bite lawyer in Indianapolis as soon as possible. By understanding the Indiana dog bite laws and seeking the necessary assistance, victims can navigate the legal terrain and obtain the justice they deserve. Stay informed and stay safe!  So, always be vigilant when dealing with dogs, especially unknown ones.

Would you like to learn more about your rights to pursing compensation after being attacked or bitten by a canine? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to speak with an experienced dog bite attorney in Indianapolis. We represent injured victims all across the state, Indiana residents injured in other states and residents of other states injured in Indiana. In addition, we offer the option to hold meetings either by phone, at your residence, online, or at the hospital if necessary.

Related Posts:

How to Claim Compensation After a Dog Attack
The Legal Implications of Owning a Dog That Bites Someone
Does Indiana Use the “One Bite” Rule for Dog Bite Accidents?

The Legal Implications of Owning a Dog That Bites Someone

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Having a dog can bring lots of joy and companionship, but it also comes with responsibilities. One of the most serious legal implications is if your pet bites someone. Dog bite accidents are quite common in the United States, with an estimated 4.5 million incidents occurring every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This means that you have a 1-in-73 chance of getting bit by a dog in the states!

In this blog post, we’ll explore what happens when a dog bites someone and how you can protect yourself from potential legal action. We will also give information on what to do if you are injured by a canine in a dog attack accident.

Call 317-881-2700 to Speak With a Dog Bite Attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Call 317-881-2700 to Speak With a Dog Bite Attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Dog Bite Laws

In most states, dog owners are legally responsible for their pet’s behavior and can be held liable if the animal bites someone. This means the dog owner could face a civil lawsuit from the victim or even criminal charges in some cases. Depending on the situation, damages awarded to the victim could include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs associated with the injury.  Make sure you have insurance to protect yourself should your dog attack anyone.

Indiana Laws Regarding Dog Bites and Attacks

Here in Indiana, our state enforces the Strict Liability rule for dog bites. Indiana Code 15-20-1-3 decrees that, regardless of a dog’s history, if it attacks or bites another person, the dog owner and thus, their insurance carrier, is wholly responsible for the accident, making them liable for the injured person’s damages (medical bills, disfigurement, PTSD, etc.) if a person is on the property discharging a duty owed under law, for example, a postal worker delivering mail. Indiana law also states that any owner who fails to disclose the dangerous nature of their dog can face a lawsuit if their pet bites someone else.  There are also other ways in which a dog owner might be held liable for actions by their dog.  Again, make sure you have insurance!  

Dog owners in Indiana should familiarize themselves with Indiana’s laws and make sure to take appropriate measures to prevent incidents from occurring as lawsuits can be both costly and damaging for all parties involved. When a serious dog bite incident occurs, it’s important to consult an experienced attorney who can advise you on your legal rights and obligations. A lawyer can also help you understand any laws in your state that might affect your case.

In addition to protecting yourself legally, here are some steps you can take to help prevent dog bite injuries:

– Make sure your pet is adequately trained and socialized.

– Ensure that your dog is always under supervision when around people.

– Make sure your dog stays appropriately restrained and confined,

– Never leave young children alone with any animal, regardless of their size or temperament.

– Spay or neuter your pet to reduce the risk of aggressive behavior.

– Check for signs of aggression in your pet such as chasing, growling, barking, or lunging at people.

Protect Yourself Against Dog Bite Lawsuits and Accidents

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure the safety of everyone in your home, guests, neighbors and minimize the chances of a dog bite accident occurring. Of course, no one can predict when an incident might occur or what mood your dog is in on a particular day, so it’s important for the owner to take the proper precautions and to be aware of the legal implications if your dog does injure someone.

What To Do if You are Bit By a Dog

Dog bites are no fun, and if you find yourself injured by another person’s dog, it can be overwhelming to figure out what to do next. First, you should call the police or animal control and make sure the appropriate procedures are followed. Second, seek medical attention for any physical injury or emotional trauma because of the dog bite accident. Depending on your specific situation and individual needs, an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer who is well-versed in dog bite cases may be able to provide additional help for your claim. A seasoned Indiana dog bite attorney can help advise you of your legal rights and options, advocate on your behalf, and work to ensure that the pet owner and their applicable insurance carrier is held liable for their negligence and any damages caused by the dog bite incident.

Are you or a loved one a recent victim of a serious dog attack in Indiana? Contact Craven, Hoover & Blazek, P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free personal injury consultation with an experienced dog bite lawyer in Indianapolis, today. We represent victims all throughout the state, as well as Indiana residents injured in other states and persons from other states injured in Indiana.

Related Posts:

Am I Liable if My Dog Bites Someone?
Are Dog Bite Claims Covered Under Homeowners’ Insurance?
Are We Entitled to a Settlement if Our Child Was Wrongfully Injured?

Am I Liable if My Dog Bites Someone?

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If your pooch bites another person or animal, you could be held liable for the damages and losses caused by the accident. Continue reading to learn more about dog bite liability in Indiana, and who to talk to if you were recently injured in a dog attack.

Indianapolis Dog Bite Lawyers 317-881-2700

Indianapolis Dog Bite Lawyers 317-881-2700


Dog is “man’s best friend”; however, they are still animals, and real-life descendants of wild animals. This means that their behavior can be defensive and unpredictable at times. Even if your dog is well-behaved and has never bitten anyone before, they can still be capable of an attack, especially if they are provoked, frightened, or under certain duress.

As a dog owner, it is important to fully-understand your responsibility to prevent your pet from harming others. If your dog does cause injury to another person or pet, you could be faced with a personal injury claim or lawsuit; and if you do not have the proper insurance coverage, you could be forced to pay the settlement out of your personal funds.

State Liability Laws

Although they differ from state to state, most have established regulations and protocols pertaining to pet owner liability and dog attacks. A person’s liability as a pet owner will differ from case to case depending on many factors, including where they live and where the attack occurred. Overall, there are three fundamental types of legal principles that states have adopted to use in such cases. These include strict liability, one bite rule, and negligence.

Strict Liability – States like Michigan, New Jersey, and California follow the strict liability principle. This means that dog owners are 100% liable for any injuries, losses, and damages caused by their pet. There are virtually no exceptions to this rule, even if a dog has never attacked before and the pet owner took precautions to prevent attacks (fencing, gates, electric collars, warning signs, etc.). The only exceptions are circumstances of intrusion, provocation, or abuse.

One Dog Bite Rule – States like New York, Georgia, and Texas follow the “one dog bite” rule. This rule decrees that dog owners may not be fully-liable for injuries or damages caused by their dog if it was the first time their dog has ever bitten, and there was no reason to suspect that their dog was unsafe or aggressive. It is like a one-time “get out of jail free” card for a pet owner. However, there are many variables that influence a person’s liability under these circumstances, so they differ greatly from case to case. For instance, one exception to this rule could be if a pet owner was somehow negligent in connection to the attack.

Negligence – Every state has negligence laws that pertain to a person’s liability in the case that they cause harm to another person. If a person was negligent in some way, and as a result a person is injured, they can be held liable for any damages and losses caused by the accident. This can apply to dog bite attacks if a pet owner’s negligence gives their dog an opportunity to injure another person. For example, not adhering to local leash laws or failing to maintain the integrity of property fencing. Again, these cases vary greatly from state to state, and depend on a wide range of factors.

Indiana is a “One Dog Bite” State

In Indiana, the law follows a “one dog bite” rule, as well as a negligence rule. Under the first principle, dog owners may not be liable for any injuries, losses, and damages caused by their pet if there is no history of dog bites or attacks. However, if a pet owner exhibits negligence, and as a result, their dog bites someone, they could be held “strictly liable” for all the damages and losses incurred to the dog bite victim as a result of the accident, regardless if it was the first time the dog has ever bitten.

The Indiana Code 15-20-1-3 dictates that no matter what a dog’s history is, if it attacks or bites someone, the owner of the dog is entirely responsible for the accident, as well as, liable for the injured person’s losses and damages.

Were You a Recent Dog Bite Victim?

If you were recently attacked or bitten by a dog, contact a licensed Indianapolis personal injury lawyer right away. In Indiana, victims of personal injury accidents have two years from the time of the accident to legally make a claim and have a court hear their case. Be sure to act within this time-frame in order to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a Dog Attack:

➀ Obtain medical treatment for wounds.
➁ Get the names and contact information of the dog’s owners.
➂ Call the police and file a report.
➃ Decide if you need to seek mental health care for trauma.
➄ Call an Indianapolis personal injury law firm for legal representation.

Who to Trust With Your Dog Bite Claim

Personal Injury Law Firm 317-881-2700

Personal Injury Law Firm
317-881-2700

Call The Law office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to make a dog bite personal injury claim in Indiana. Our seasoned Indianapolis personal injury lawyers are eager to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve. Not only does our law firm offer free consultations, we never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you!

A Brief Review of Indiana’s Personal Injury Laws

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Indianapolis Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

Indianapolis Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

In terms of personal injury, Indiana has its own set of ordinances that surround the civil legal process and more. This includes time limits for filing lawsuits, government claims, compensation caps, liability, and more. Most of these basic personal injury laws will become relevant at some point, either during court trials or negotiations with insurance companies.

If recently injured and considering a claim against a negligent party, it is wise to familiarize yourself with these personal injury law basics so that you are better prepared to discuss your case with a trusted accident lawyer. Continue reading to review some basic principles surrounding personal injury law, as well as, some fundamental laws and ordinances specific to Indiana jurisdiction.

Statute of Limitations

When a person is wrongfully injured and wishes to pursue a claim against the at-fault party, they cannot wait too long. All states have a set time limit to file a civil lawsuit, all of which vary depending on the type of case. As for Indiana personal injury lawsuits, a person has two years from the date of the accident to legally file a suit. Once two years has come and gone, a personal injury victim loses all opportunity to pursue compensation for their damages. This time limit decreases for other types of claims. For claims against a city or county, a personal injury victim only has 180 days to file a lawsuit. And for claims against an Indiana state government agency, victims have 270 days from the time of the accident.

Liability

Indiana uses “comparative fault” for some personal injury claims. This means a victim can be found partially at-fault for their accident and subsequent damages, thus reducing the opposing party’s liability. It also reduces the total amount of compensation awarded. For example, if a person is hit by a car while crossing the street, but they were not using a designated crosswalk, a court might find them 20% at-fault and the driver 80% at-fault. And the math for compensation would continue from there.

Car Accident Claims

In Indiana, a car accident victim has several options in terms of collecting compensation for their damages. They can choose to file with their own car insurance carrier, the other driver’s car insurance carrier (third party claim), or take the case to court to prove fault and collect compensation for damages.

Dog Bite Claims

Many states follow a “one bite rule” regarding dog bites and injuries. This means a dog owner, to some degree, is protected from liability the first time their dog injuries another person, if their history does not show aggression or past attacks. But Indiana does not use this rule; instead, they use “strict liability” meaning a dog owner is strictly liable no matter what their dog’s behavioral history looks like.

Compensation Caps

In Indiana, there are certain limits to how much compensation can be collected on specific types of cases. For example, medical malpractice lawsuits had a cap of $500,000 for non-economic damages, while government payouts capped out at five million. These compensation caps have been updated since 2012, and may currently abolished. Talk to your personal injury lawyer for current state cap limitations.

Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

Personal Injury Lawyers

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for information about filing a personal injury claim in Indiana. Attorneys, Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek are seasoned litigators with decades of trial experience. Our personal injury law firm fights hard for our client’s right to full and fair compensation. We are not afraid to go the extra mile for our client’s well-being and future! Call 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial consultation with a licensed personal injury lawyer in Indianapolis, and never pay attorney fees unless we win your case.

Does Indiana Use the “One Bite” Rule for Dog Bite Accidents?

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Many states offer limited liability protection for dog owners in the case that their dog bites or attacks someone for the first time. If there is no history of aggression or violence, or the dog has never bitten or attacked anyone or another animal, then courts give the owner the benefit of not having full liability in the accident. This is often referred to as the “one bite rule” and is applied in cases in which there was never reason to believe a dog was a danger to anyone.

The one bite rule, however, does not eliminate all liability for a pet owner in the case that their dog bit or attacked another person or animal, it simply offers a degree of relief when it comes to legal liability for damages. In contrast to the one bite rule, Indiana uses “strict liability” in dog bite and attack cases. Continue reading to learn more about strict liability and dog bite accidents in Indiana.

Call 317-881-2700 When You Need a Dog Bite Lawyer in Indiana
Call 317-881-2700 When You Need a Dog Bite Lawyer in Indiana

Strict Liability in Dog Bite Cases

In Indiana, is a person’s dog attacks or bites another without any provocation, the owner of the dog is “strictly liable” for all damages and losses incurred by the victim. The Indiana Code 15-20-1-3 decrees that no matter what a dog’s history is, if it attacks or bites someone, the owner of the dog is entirely responsible for the accident, as well as, liable for the injured person’s damages.

In the case of a dog bite or attack, potential or likely damages include pain and suffering, lost wages from time off work, medical expenses, hospital or emergency room bills, multiple surgeries, rehabilitation, prolonged suffering, permanent disfigurement, permanent scarring, PTSD, mental anguish, and more.

Get Help From a Dog Bite Lawyer Today

If you were recently attacked or bitten by a dog while peaceably on public property or legally on private property (i.e. A friend or neighbor’s house), and did nothing to provoke the dog to hurt you, contact a licensed personal injury lawyer right away. In Indiana, victims of personal injury accidents have two years from the time of the accident to legally file a claim and have a court hear your case. Be sure to act within this time-frame in order to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to file a dog bite injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free initial consultation and never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you. Call 317-881-2700 to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable personal injury lawyer in Indianapolis, IN today.

Can I Sue for a Dog Bite Accident?

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Dog Bite Lawyer 317-881-2700

Dog Bite Lawyer 317-881-2700

As far back as 20 years ago, there has been an average of more than 4 million dog bite accidents each year. Less than 20 percent of bitten victims seek out medical attention for their injuries; while even less go on to pursue an injury claim against the negligent pet owner or establishment. A dog bite victim cannot be awarded compensation for their injuries and damages unless they do all of the above, and more.

Continue reading to learn what you should do if yourself or a loved one is attacked and bitten by another person’s dog, and suffer serious injuries, mental trauma, and additional damages.

Dog Bite Lawsuits

When it comes to liability segments of insurance companies, they are only covering 17 to 18,000 dog bite victims each year. You can imagine it this way: only 2% of all victims that see a doctor for dog bite accidents receive coverage benefits for their injuries. This is another reason why professional legal counsel is vital following a dog attack. Dog Bite Personal Injury Attorneys are well-versed in animal attack and injury law. They can successfully navigate a person’s case and win them the compensation they rightfully deserve. If an innocent by-stander or person is attacked or bitten by another person or establishment’s dog, and the accident took place due to the other person or establishment’s negligence, the victim is entitled to rights and compensation under state law. If the negligent party has Insurance for Dog Owners, then they are most likely covered up to 100,000 dollars for damages and restitution.

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

When victims of dog attacks pursue a lawsuit for compensation, they can potentially recover remuneration for medical expenses, hospital bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, mental trauma, prolonged rehabilitation, scarring, disfigurement, and much more. With the right legal team, victims of dog bite injuries can successfully obtain compensation for these needs, and the needs of their families. The consequences of a vicious canine attack can be life-long and extremely devastating.

Although winning a lawsuit cannot change the undesirable outcomes of a dog bite or attack, it is a good start for families and victims to get their life back on track. It opens doors for opportunity that they wouldn’t otherwise have due to overwhelming expenses, time off work, rehabilitation, pain, and more.

As soon as a dog bite occurs, there are critical actions that must be taken in order to have an effective case against the negligent and opposing parties. If you are bitten by a dog under negligent circumstances, follow these steps if you wish to file a claim:

1. Go to the Clinic or Hospital and Receive Medical Care for Wounds and Trauma
2. File a Police Report the Same Day of Accident or Attack
3. Contact a Personal Injury Law Firm and Schedule a Consultation
4. Hire a Licensed Accident Attorney if Eligible for Compensation
5. Move Forward and File Claim

Dog Bite Injury Attorneys for Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 if you wish to file a dog bite injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorneys Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek are extensively well-versed in dog bite injury law, and have successfully represented numerous dog bite lawsuits in Indiana. We offer free initial consultations to access your case and determine your eligibility for remuneration; and we never collect attorney fees unless we prevail for you! This means no retainer or deposits are necessary if our accident lawyers believe you have a solid case. Call us at 317-881-2700 to pursue a dog bite injury lawsuit in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding counties.