Gina M Corena at GIna Corena & Associates

Founding Member & Managing Partner at Gina Corena & Associates

Practice Areas: Personal Injury

Dog bites are more common than most people realize. Every year, thousands of people suffer injuries from dog attacks, leading to medical bills, emotional Trauma, and financial burdens. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Las Vegas, understanding your legal rights is crucial.

In Nevada, dog bite cases are handled differently from many other states. Instead of following a strict liability rule where dog owners are automatically responsible, Nevada operates under a negligence-based system. This means that a victim must prove that the dog owner failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent the attack. Knowing how liability works and what compensation you may be entitled to can make all the difference in your case.

Understanding Nevada’s Dog Bite Laws

Unlike some states with a one-bite rule, where a dog owner isn’t held liable for the first attack, Nevada focuses on whether the owner acted negligently. If a dog owner knew or should have known that their pet posed a risk and failed to prevent an attack, they can be held responsible.

For example, if a dog is roaming off-leash in a public park and bites someone, the owner may be considered negligent for not keeping their pet under control. However, if a dog bites someone who is trespassing on private property, the owner may not be held responsible.

Certain situations can make a dog bite case more complex. If the dog has been previously labeled as “dangerous” or “vicious” under Nevada Revised Statutes, the owner could face harsher penalties. Owners of these dogs are expected to take extra precautions, such as using secure enclosures and leashes in public spaces.

Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 202.500) classify a dog as “dangerous” if it has bitten someone without provocation or shown aggressive behavior. Owners of dangerous dogs face increased liability if they fail to take preventive measures.

Local leash laws also play a role. Many cities in Nevada require dogs to be leashed in public areas, and violating these laws could make the owner legally responsible for an attack.

Local Ordinances and Their Role in Dog Bite Cases

Nevada’s statewide negligence rule is essential, but local ordinances can also impact how liability is determined in dog bite cases.

Cities like Las Vegas have specific leash laws that require owners to keep their dogs on a leash in public areas. If a dog is off-leash in a park or neighborhood and bites someone, the owner could face serious legal consequences. In some cases, cities have banned certain breeds deemed aggressive. While breed-specific laws are controversial, they can play a role in dog bite injury cases.

The CDC reports that approximately 4.5 million people suffer dog bites annually in the U.S., with 800,000 requiring medical attention.

If a dog attack occurs in a city with strict leash laws, violating these laws can be used as evidence of negligence. For victims, understanding both state and local regulations is essential for building a strong case.

Liability in Las Vegas Dog Bite Injury Cases

There are different ways a person may be held liable for a dog bite injury in Las Vegas. The most common is dog owner liability. If the owner failed to control their dog correctly, they could be held responsible for the victim’s injuries.

In some cases, a property owner may also be liable. If a landlord knowingly allows a dangerous dog on their rental property and the dog attacks someone, the landlord could share responsibility.

Another scenario involves pet sitters or dog walkers. If someone is caring for a dog and fails to prevent an attack, they could also face liability.

Dog owners often try to defend themselves by arguing that the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing. If a person intentionally teases or hurts a dog before an attack, the owner may not be held responsible. Similarly, if a dog bites someone who was unlawfully on private property, the owner might not be liable.

Seeking Compensation for Dog Bite Medical Expenses

After a dog bite, medical bills can add up quickly. Emergency room visits, rabies shots, stitches, and even reconstructive surgery may be necessary. Nevada law allows victims to seek compensation for these expenses.

Compensation isn’t just limited to immediate medical bills. If a person has long-term medical needs, such as physical therapy or surgery, they can also seek damages for future medical costs.

Lost wages are another factor. If a dog bite forces someone to take time off work, they can recover compensation for the income lost. Emotional distress, pain, and suffering are also considered. Many dog bite victims, especially children, suffer from long-term Trauma. Therapy and counseling expenses may be covered in a claim.

Factors That Influence a Dog Bite Settlement in Nevada

The amount of compensation a victim receives depends on several factors. The severity of the injuries is a significant consideration. Minor wounds may result in lower settlements, while severe injuries requiring surgery or long-term care lead to higher payouts.

Where the attack took place also matters. If a dog bites someone in a public space, the owner is more likely to be held responsible. If it happens on private property, liability becomes more complicated.

Past incidents involving the dog also influence settlements. If the dog has bitten someone before, the owner may face harsher consequences, increasing the compensation a victim can receive.

In Las Vegas, a 2023 dog bite injury case resulted in a $250,000 settlement after proving the owner’s negligence and failure to secure the dog.

Insurance policies can also impact the claim. Some homeowner’s homeowners insurance policies cover dog bite incidents, which can make recovering from damages easier.

Dog Bite InjurySteps to Take After a Dog Bite Incident

If your dog bites you, the first step is to seek medical attention immediately. Even if the wound seems minor, infections and complications can arise.

Reporting the bite to local authorities is also crucial. Animal control agencies keep records of dog attacks, which can help establish a history of aggressive behavior.

Gathering evidence strengthens a case. If possible, take photos of the injuries, the location where the attack occurred, and the dog. Witness statements can also be valuable.

Lastly, consulting an attorney ensures that victims understand their rights and receive fair compensation.

Comparing Compensation for Dog Bite Cases

Type of Damage Compensation Amount (Approx.)
Medical Expenses $5,000 – $50,000+
Lost Wages Based on income loss
Pain and Suffering $10,000 – $100,000+
Psychological Trauma $5,000 – $50,000+
Permanent Disfigurement Higher Settlements Possible

FAQs

How do I prove negligence in a Las Vegas dog bite injury case?

To prove negligence, you must show that the dog owner failed to take reasonable precautions. Evidence such as witness statements, medical records, and leash law violations can support your claim. Consulting a lawyer can help build a strong case.

What is the average dog bite settlement in Nevada?

Dog bite settlements vary, but victims often receive between $30,000 and $100,000. The severity of the injuries, medical costs, and the dog owner’s level of negligence all impact the final settlement amount.

Can I file a claim if a friend’s dog bit me?

Yes. Many dog bite claims are handled through homeowner’s insurance rather than suing the dog owner directly. A lawyer can help navigate the insurance claim process and secure fair compensation.

What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?

Nevada does not follow a strict one-bite rule, meaning owners can still be held liable if they fail to control their dogs correctly. Each case is evaluated based on the circumstances surrounding the attack.

How long do I have to file a dog bite injury claim in Nevada?

Victims have two years from the date of the attack to file a claim. Delaying legal action can make it harder to collect evidence and prove liability.

Conclusion

Dog bites can have serious physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Nevada law allows victims to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and Trauma. If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, it’s essential to understand your rights and take the necessary steps to build a strong case.

Gina Corena & Associates has extensive experience handling dog bite injury cases in Nevada. If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog bite, consulting an attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced legal team today, and we will work to get the compensation you deserve.

As founder of Gina Corena & Associates, she is dedicated to fighting for the rights of the people who suffer life-changing personal injuries in car, truck and motorcycle accidents as well as other types of personal injury. Gina feels fortunate to serve the Nevada community and hold wrongdoers accountable for their harm to her clients.

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