When we see dogs out and about with their owners, we might comment on how cute they are or how friendly they look. Unfortunately, not all dogs are so friendly. Regardless, we expect the owners to keep them from causing harm to people, whether by biting, knocking them down, or otherwise acting aggressively.

A dog attack is an especially traumatic injury. You’re suffering because of a dog bite, and now you’re not sure whether canine owners are liable for bites in Idaho. The laws surrounding canine attacks can be complex. At Craig Swapp & Associates, we understand how confusing liability can be, and we’re here to help.

Liability Laws in Idaho

When you’re bitten by a dog, you’ll first need to determine who is liable for the dog’s actions, if anyone. Often, dog owners are liable for their dogs, but Idaho law sets certain limits on that liability with what’s known as the one-bite rule.

This law states that unless the dog has already shown signs of aggression, the owner isn’t liable for the attack. Any subsequent attacks, however, are the owner’s financial responsibility. For example, if you were attacked by a German shepherd, you might later discover that the dog has a history of aggression. In this case, the owner would be liable for your damages.

That’s not always the case. You might have been attacked by a rottweiler, for example, but this time, the canine had no history of biting or even of aggressive behavior. In this case, your defense might not hold, as the owner might not have known that the dog was dangerous.  

Acting in Time for Compensation

Beyond the scope of liability, you’ll also have to ensure you’re filing your dog bite claim within the mandated time frame. Idaho has a strict statute of limitations for injury lawsuits, which limits the amount of time you have to seek compensation for your canine attack damages.

Idaho residents have just two years to file. If you fail to file your claim within two years of the attack, your case could be dismissed and you could be barred from seeking recovery. If this happens, all of your accident-related expenses will be on you to cover.

Reach Out for Help After a Dog Bite

A dog bite is a serious issue that can leave you struggling to recover. You’re suffering and likely looking at some severe injuries that come with pricey medical bills. This can leave you wondering whether dog owners are liable for bites in Idaho. Yes, although there are exceptions to this rule, you may have the opportunity to secure compensation for your canine attack.

An attorney from Craig Swapp & Associates can help you find the person at fault, and they’ll calculate the true value of your claim. Get started with a free claim consult. Enlisting the help of a qualified attorney will give your claim the best chance of success. Start by calling 1-800-404-9000 or by filling out the online form we’ve included below.