Attorneys

Quality Legal Resources You Can Count On

Your current location: (0) | Change Location
Rate this information

What Is The Common Law "One-Bite" Rule?

The common law "One­Bite" rule is imposed in several places, and states that a dog's owner is liable for injuries the dog causes only if the owner knew or had reason to know that the dog was likely to cause injury. In other words, from the moment your dog tries to bite someone, it is classified as dangerous. The owner will then be held liable if the dog later bites someone. This law implies that every dog is allowed one "free bite," and from that point forward, the owner is on notice that the dog is dangerous. An owner who knows a dog poses a risk to people must take action to prevent the injury or be prepared to pay for it.

Other Dog Bites FAQs

  • Q: How Do I Prevent Dog Bites? 5 Star Rating
    A: The best way to avoid liability is to prevent your dog from causing injury or damage.  A few simple rules: train and socialize your dog, never let your dog run at … More
  • Q: What If Youre Being Hurt By A Dog?
    A: If you're attacked by a dog or witness someone else attacked, you can fight back.  State laws allow anyone to take any action necessary, including killing, to stop a … More
  • Q: How Does Dog Owner Liability Work?
    A: Generally, a dog's owner is liable for damage or injury the dog causes.  But in some instances, someone else may also be liable if: someone besides the owner was … More
  • Q: What Must The Dog Owner Pay For? 5 Star Rating
    A: A dog owner who is legally responsible for an injury to a person or property may have to reimburse the injured party for medical bills, lost income, pain and … More

Dog Bites

Change Your Location

Enter Your New Location:


(e.g., San Diego, CA or 92121 or 619)

Based on your IP Address, your default location is:

  • Area Code: 0
  • City:
  • State: