If my neighbor’s dog came into my yard and charged me and my dog and I received a knee injury as a result, are the dog’s owners responsible?
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If my neighbor’s dog came into my yard and charged me and my dog and I received a knee injury as a result, are the dog’s owners responsible?
My dog was on a leash and in my yard.
Asked on September 20, 2014 under Personal Injury, Alabama
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
If the owner of the dog was negligent, or unreasonably careless, such as by letting his/her dog out without a lease, invisible fence, or supervision, then he or she may be liable for the costs of your medical care, and, if you suffer impairment lasting weeks or more, some amount of "pain and suffering." (If they don't pay voluntarily, you'd have to sue to get the money, which--depending on how much is at stake--may or may not be worth it.) If they did take reasonable care but the dog got loose anyway, they would not be liable--liability in cases like this is based on fault, or being negligent.
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