Ask a Lawyer - Archive

I was bitten by a dog at a party. The dog has a history of attacking people. Is there any way I can recover the medical expenses or be compensated for his attack?

The short answer to your question is that it depends. If the attack took place within the municipal limits of a city, town, or village, recovery of damages for a dog bite can be based upon the local City ordinances that relate to the control of animals. Outside of city limits, it can be harder to recover, because state law is less restrictive for animal owners. If an animal owner owns their own home, there is a good possibility they maintain homeowner's insurance, which generally provides coverage for the scenario you present. However, if there is no insurance available, it may be difficult to obtain recovery from the assets, if any, of the dog owner.