A dangerous dog refers to canine pets that have demonstrated aggression; and therefore, must be properly controlled by owners to prevent future injury. When dangerous dogs attack, owners are held liable for the incident, and victims can legally seek out compensation for personal injury. If you’ve experienced a canine attack, here are a few important details to know about the laws surrounding the situation.

Do All Attacks Make a Dog Dangerous?

No. According to Hawaii law, owners aren’t at fault if their pets were provoked. For example, you can’t file suit if a dog bit you because you were trespassing, threatening the owner, or hurting the animal.

What’re the Rules of Owning a Dangerous Dog?

Depending on the specific circumstances of the case, canine owners must meet a variety of criteria to legally own a dangerous dog. Typically, these animals must be controlled in all environments, like wearing a muzzle and being held on a leash in public. The dog must also be registered with animal control as dangerous.

In certain situations, owners may also face legal consequences if their dangerous pet harms another individual, especially if precautions weren’t taken. These consequences can include fines of up to $2,000, imprisonment, and covering personal injury damages incurred by the victim.

What Happens If You’re Bitten by a Dangerous Dog?

You should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Immediate medical care can help save you from rabies and bacterial infections that could be spread by the animal. This doctor’s visit will also provide documentation to prove to legal authorities that you were harmed by a dog.

To sue the owner of a dangerous dog in Hawaii, you must seek legal action within two years of the incident. With help from a skilled attorney, you can seek out compensation for personal injury damages, including medical costs, lost work time, and emotional suffering. In some cases, these matters are settled out of court and may be covered by the dog owner’s home insurance policy.

If you’ve experienced a dog bite, contact the skilled legal professionals at the Charles H. Brower Law Corporation in Honolulu, HI. For over 40 years, they’ve provided Oahu residents with quality legal counseling and advice. They specialize in personal injury, workers’ compensation, and sexual harassment cases as well as employment and family law. Send a message online or call (808) 526-2688 to schedule a consultation.