Do “Beware of Dog” Signs Legally Protect Dog Owners from Lawsuits?
The consequences of a dog bite can be physically and mentally traumatic for the victim. Dog bites can cause painful injuries, illnesses, infections, and mental trauma. Recovering from an animal attack can be a lengthy and expensive process. But should you be expected to pick up the tab when someone else’s dog bites?
You likely have many pressing questions about your legal options after an animal attack. For instance, does having a “beware of dog” sign on their property absolve a pet owner of legal responsibility when their dog attacks? At Warnett Hallen LLP, our animal attack lawyers can help you understand your legal rights and avenues for pursuing compensation.
Can a “Beware of Dog” Sign Prevent Me from Suing a Dog’s Owner?
A warning sign does not necessarily prevent you from suing the dog’s owner if it attacked you. You may still be able to seek compensation for your injuries. However, you may also be partially responsible for the accident because you disregarded the sign. The British Columbia Negligence Act allows injured parties to receive compensation in accordance with their degree of fault. In other words, the courts will consider whether your actions contributed to your injuries and may find you partially to blame for the bite, affecting how much compensation you could receive.
Warning Signs Could Indicate a Vicious Tendency
Although it is possible for dogs to attack quickly and without warning, most dangerous animals exhibit vicious tendencies. Recognizing these signs could help prevent serious injury.
A dog might signal its intention to attack by exhibiting the following behaviors:
- Growling
- Baring teeth
- Guttural barking
- Suddenly becoming very still or rigid in posture
- Lunging forward
Even family-friendly pets and well-trained dogs can bite. A dog may be more prone to bite or attack when it is:
- Provoked
- Hurt or injured
- Afraid
- Protecting its territory
- Guarding resources like food
Dog Bite Laws in Vancouver, B.C.
There are several laws concerning dog bites in Vancouver, B.C. Section 324 of the Consolidated Statutes of British Columbia regulates the impoundment and keeping of animals and the penalties an owner faces for violating dangerous dog laws. The Animal Liability Act of 2017 establishes when a dog owner can be liable for the damage their pet causes. Regulations for leashing and licensing dogs are set at the city level.
In British Columbia, the “one-bite rule” rule applies. To have a successful legal claim, the victim must show that the dog owner knew the dog had displayed a propensity to bite before. That dog owner could therefore be strictly liable for a subsequent attack since they should have known it was possible but did not prevent the attack from occurring. A “beware of dog” sign could be important evidence to show the dog owner knew their animal was dangerous. The question then becomes, was the sign enough to shield them from liability? Seek advice from an experienced dog bite attorney to learn how the law applies in your case.
Did a Dangerous Dog Injure You? Get Help from an Animal Attack Lawyer in Vancouver, B.C.
Has a dangerous dog injured you? The experienced animal attack lawyers at Warnett Hallen LLP can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
