(208) 823-2642
(208) 823-2642Experienced Dog Bite Injury Attorneys in Boise, Idaho
At Swenson & Shelley Law, our Boise dog bite attorneys understand the emotional and physical toll that a dog bite can take on a person’s life. We recognize that their lives can change without notice when an animal bites someone, especially for children and vulnerable adults in Idaho who cannot defend themselves against an attacking dog. The question becomes, who is responsible for the damages?
Idaho’s dog bite laws have evolved over time. Historically, the state followed the traditional “one-bite rule,” holding a dog owner liable only if they knew or should have known about their dog’s aggressive tendencies. However, recent changes in Idaho code section 25-2810(11) have clarified that an unjustified dog attack is the owner’s responsibility, regardless of the dog’s history.
Adding to the legal confusion is that nearly 75% of all dog bites are inflicted by a known pet—meaning one owned by a neighbor, friend, or family member. This leaves dog bite victims unsure how to pursue their damages since pursuing the person directly for their compensation needs can jeopardize their personal relationships. We can help.
At Swenson & Shelley Law, our Ada County dog bite lawyers will thoroughly explain your legal rights and options. We will handle each detail of your claim, including pursuing the dog owner’s insurance coverage directly for your damages, removing you and the pet’s owner from the legal equation. This allows you to focus on your recovery and maintain your personal relationships while we work to secure the compensation you need to get your life back on track.
Don’t hesitate to contact our skilled dog bite attorneys in Boise. We offer a free consultation, during which we can discuss your case and provide guidance on your legal rights and options.
When the Worst Has Happened, We Fight for What’s Best for You.
How Can Idaho’s Dog Bite Laws Protect the Injured?
Idaho’s laws regarding dog bites are somewhat less comprehensive than those in some other states, but essential legal principles and statutes still govern these incidents.
In addition to an unjustified dog attack, where the damages are the owner’s responsibility, regardless of the dog’s history, other critical aspects of dog bite laws in Idaho include:
Negligence
- Owner Negligence: A dog owner can be held liable if it can be proven that the owner was negligent in controlling the dog or preventing the bite. This includes failing to leash the dog, allowing it to roam freely, or ignoring signs of aggression.
- Failure to Follow Local Ordinances: Violating local leash laws or other animal control regulations can also be used as evidence of negligence.
In personal injury cases, the dog bite victim can establish negligence through the following:
- The dog owner had a duty to keep you safe.
- The owner did something to breach his duty.
- That breach of duty has resulted in your accident.
- You suffered injuries and damages from the accident.
Generally, dog owners are not liable for bites if the victim was trespassing on their property. However, exceptions can be made if the owner’s conduct is willful or wanton. If the victim provoked the dog, the owner might not be liable. Provocation can include teasing, hitting, or otherwise antagonizing the dog.
Dangerous Dog Laws
- Local Regulations: Some municipalities in Idaho may have additional regulations regarding dangerous dogs. These laws can impose stricter liability on owners of dogs that have been declared dangerous or have a history of aggressive behavior.
- Quarantine and Euthanasia: Local animal control authorities may require dogs that have bitten someone to be quarantined for a period to check for rabies or, in severe cases, euthanized if the dog is deemed a continuing threat.
If you, your child, or someone you love has been bitten by a dog in Idaho, contact our experienced Boise personal injury lawyers to ensure you understand the state’s liability laws and how we can help you enforce them by filing a claim against the dog owner’s insurance company for your complete damages.
What are the Most Common Injuries Associated with Dog Bites in Boise, Idaho?
Dog bites can lead to various injuries, varying in severity from minor to life-threatening. In Boise, Idaho, as in other places, the following are some of the most common injuries resulting from dog bites:
- Puncture Wounds: Deep wounds caused by a dog’s teeth penetrating the skin.
- Lacerations: Cuts or tears in the skin, which can be superficial or deep.
- Crush Injuries: Damage caused by the force of the dog’s jaws, crushing tissue, and bones.
- Infections: Bacterial infections from the dog’s saliva entering the wound, including Bacteria: Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, or Capnocytophaga.
- Avulsions: The skin or other tissue is torn away from the body.
- Broken Bones: Fractures resulting from the force of the bite.
- Nerve Damage: Injury to nerves caused by the bite or associated trauma.
- Scarring and Disfigurement: Permanent marks or deformities from severe bites.
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Mental and emotional distress following a dog bite incident can require ongoing rehabilitation and therapy, especially in children.
Dog bites can cause severe injuries and complications, so seeking immediate medical attention and follow-up care is crucial. If a dog has bitten you or someone you know, you must consult with healthcare professionals to understand the extent of your injuries. Once you have a treatment plan, contact our skilled dog bite attorneys in Boise to address the incident’s legal aspects so you can pursue the compensation you need to get your life back on track.
In Idaho, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, including dog bite cases, is generally two years from the date of the injury. Failing to file within this period typically results in losing the right to pursue a claim. Contact us today to get started.
We Also Focus on the Following Areas in Boise, Idaho
Contact Our Dedicated Dog Bite and Injury Attorneys in Boise, Idaho for Help Today
Call us today at (208) 823-2642 or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. During this consultation, you can learn immediately whether your claim is eligible for legal action.
We do not charge any fees upfront for our services. Instead, you pay us only if we secure payment for you. That makes getting legal help accessible and allows you to focus on your recovery. Contact us now to learn more.
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