Under Minnesota law, you have the right to file a lawsuit against the owner of the dog that bit you. The state holds dog owners liable for their pets’ behavior, making them responsible for any damages you suffer after a bite.
Learning more about Minnesota statutes on dog bites could give you insights into how to recover compensation for your injury.
Minnesota’s stance on dog bites
Minnesota takes dog bites seriously and has laws in place to protect dog bite victims. If a dog bites you on public property without provocation, you can file a case against the owner.
You can also sue the owner if their dog bites you on private property. This applies when you have the owner’s permission to be inside their house, in their garden or anywhere within the owner’s vicinity.
Compensation you may recover after a bite
When a dog bites you in Minnesota, the owner is accountable for paying for all the damages you sustain from the injury. These may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damages
- Emotional and mental damage
- Lost income potential
- Permanent scars or disfigurement
Depending on your wound’s severity, it may demand prolonged treatment. Minnesota law allows you to seek payment for initial and future medical costs to ensure a proper recovery.
Settlement negotiations with the dog owner
Dog bite cases in Minnesota are typically resolved through settlement negotiations between victims and the dog owner. You may seek legal advice from an attorney to navigate the process and pursue the best payoff possible.