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Understanding Dog Bite Cases in Oklahoma

Dog bites can be traumatic experiences, leading to physical and emotional harm. In Oklahoma, specific laws are in place to protect victims and hold dog owners accountable for their pet’s actions. The key to winning your settlement is having a better understanding of dog bite cases in Oklahoma.

This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive guide to Oklahoma’s dog bite laws, outlining owner responsibilities, victim rights, and the legal recourse available in such cases.

Strict Liability

Oklahoma follows the legal doctrine of “strict liability” regarding dog bites. This means that dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of its aggressive tendencies. In other words, it doesn’t matter if the dog has never bitten anyone before; the owner is still responsible for any damages resulting from a dog bite.

Trespasser Exceptions

While Oklahoma’s dog bite laws impose strict liability on dog owners, this rule has certain exceptions. If a person was trespassing on the dog owner’s property at the time of the incident, the owner may not be held liable for the injuries caused by their dog. However, this exception doesn’t apply if the dog owner intentionally set the dog on the trespasser or if the victim is a child under the age of six.

Comparative Negligence

Oklahoma also employs the concept of comparative negligence in dog bite cases1. If the victim’s actions contributed to the incident, their compensation may be reduced based on the percentage of their own negligence. For example, if the victim provoked the dog or trespassed despite warnings, the court may find them partially responsible for the injuries suffered1. The compensation awarded to the victim would then be reduced accordingly.

Reporting and Quarantine Requirements

In Oklahoma, any dog involved in a bite incident must be reported to the local animal control agency. The authorities will investigate the incident and ensure the dog is properly quarantined to determine if it has rabies or other contagious diseases. This measure helps protect public health and promptly addresses potential risks.

Statute of Limitations

If you are a dog bite victim in Oklahoma, it’s important to be aware of the statute of limitations1. You have two years from the incident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to meet this deadline may result in your case being dismissed, and you could lose the opportunity to seek compensation for your injuries. Therefore, promptly consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney after a dog bite is crucial to understanding your rights and legal options.

In conclusion, understanding Oklahoma’s dog bite laws is crucial for dog owners and victims of dog bites. These laws are designed to protect victims and hold dog owners accountable for their pet’s actions. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, it’s important to seek legal advice to understand your rights and the compensation you may be entitled to.

Get a free dog bite case consultation with a seasoned personal injury attorney. Contact AMA law today to learn everything you need to know about dog bite cases in Oklahoma.