Dog Bites

The State of Alaska ranks highly among dogs per capita. Alaska also scores among the highest for most committed dog owners. This is all well and good until a dog attacks someone. Over 4.5 million people suffer dog bites every year. Unfortunately, children seem to be the most common target of dog attacks. Being attacked by a dog is a very traumatic experience. It often leaves both physical and emotional scars on the victim. Victims often require both medical and psychological treatment to fully heal from an attack.

Dog Bite Claims

Injury claims against dog owners are usually defended and paid by the homeowner’s insurance providing insurance coverage owner’s home. Critical evidence includes proof that the dog owner knew or should have known of the aggressive nature of the dog. Also, there must be proof the owner did not act reasonably to protect others from the dog’s attack. The claim will also require testimony from treating doctors, therapists, and counselors. This outlines the nature of the injuries, treatment, and the victim’s prognosis for the future. Claims often also address the cost of future scar revision and other future medical care.

Alaskan Law

Alaska follows the one dog bite rule. This means a person is liable for a dog bite if the dog had the predisposition to inflict an injury. In addition, the defendant must knew or about that predisposition.

In Hale v. O’Neill, 492 P.2d 101 (Alaska 1971), the Alaska Supreme Court referred to “the doctrine of strict liability for injuries caused by a domestic animal with known dangerous tendencies.” Further, the court noted that “an owner of a domestic animal becomes liable, regardless of fault, for injuries caused by the animal which stem from a vicious propensity, known to the owner.”

The court went on to describe the elements of such an action as being: (1) the animal’s owner knew or should have known of the animal’s “dangerous tendency,” and (2) the dangerous tendency resulted in an injury to the claimant.

We Are Here To Help

Douglas G. Johnson has handled numerous dog bite cases throughout his career. He knows what it takes to obtain fair compensation for his clients. Call today for a free consultation. (907) 277-3090.