A dog bite can have serious consequences. Not only physically, but also psychologically. Think of deep bite wounds, scars, infections, or long-lasting anxiety. Many victims wonder whether they are entitled to compensation for personal injury caused by a dog bite. The answer in most cases is: yes.
In this comprehensive article, we explain step by step who is liable in the event of a dog bite, which damages you can claim, and what you should do immediately to protect your rights.
How common is personal injury caused by a dog bite?
Personal injury caused by dog bites occurs more frequently than many people think. Every year, thousands of people are treated by a general practitioner or hospital after a bite. Victims are often children, postal workers, joggers, or passers-by.
Precisely because a dog bite happens unexpectedly, the consequences are often far-reaching.
Who is liable in the event of a dog bite?
In cases of personal injury caused by a dog bite, the owner of the dog is in principle liable. This liability applies in virtually all cases, regardless of whether the owner did anything wrong.
The law provides for so-called strict liability for animals. This means that the owner is responsible for the behaviour of their dog, even if the bite was unexpected.
What does strict liability mean?
Strict liability means that the owner of the dog is liable for the damage caused by the animal, purely because they are the owner. You therefore do not need to prove that the owner was negligent or careless.
This is why personal injury caused by a dog bite can often be successfully claimed.
Does liability also apply if the dog was on a leash?
Yes. Even when the dog was on a leash, the owner remains in principle liable. The fact that a dog can bite unexpectedly is part of the risk of keeping an animal.
Only in exceptional circumstances can liability be limited, for example when the victim themselves displayed deliberately provocative behaviour.
What if the dog belongs to someone else?
Sometimes a dog is temporarily walked by another person, for example a friend, family member, or professional dog walker. In that case, both the owner and the actual keeper can be liable.
Who ultimately pays depends on the circumstances. For the victim, this makes little difference: your damage must be compensated.
Personal injury caused by a dog bite involving children
Children are especially vulnerable when it comes to dog bites. They not only suffer physical injuries but also develop anxiety more frequently.
In cases of personal injury caused by a dog bite involving children, liability is almost always assumed. Contributory negligence on the part of the child plays virtually no role in practice.
What damages can you claim after a dog bite?
After personal injury caused by a dog bite, you can claim various categories of damages. This involves not only medical costs but also other forms of damage.
Material damages
- costs of medical treatment;
- medication and bandages;
- travel costs to the doctor or hospital;
- costs of domestic help;
- damaged clothing or belongings.
Loss of income
If you are temporarily or permanently unable to work due to the injury, you can claim loss of income. Loss of earning capacity may also be eligible for compensation.
Pain and suffering compensation
In addition to financial damages, you are often entitled to pain and suffering compensation. This compensates for pain, anxiety, scars, and reduced quality of life. More information can be found on our pain and suffering compensation for personal injury page.
Psychological damage after a dog bite
Personal injury caused by a dog bite is not always purely physical. Many victims develop anxiety, sleep problems, or avoidance behaviour.
This psychological damage can also be eligible for compensation, provided the connection with the dog bite is plausible.
What should you do immediately after a dog bite?
After a dog bite, it is important to act quickly and carefully. This increases your chances of full compensation.
- have the wound treated medically immediately;
- take photographs of the injury;
- note the details of the dog and the owner;
- ask for contact details of witnesses;
- keep medical documents and proof of costs;
- seek legal advice.
More general information can also be found on our personal injury lawyer page.
What if the dog is not insured?
In most cases, the owner is insured through a private liability insurance policy (AVP). If this is not the case, the owner remains personally liable.
Even in that situation, compensation can often be enforced.
Can the owner claim contributory negligence?
Sometimes the owner claims that the victim was at fault, for example by petting or approaching the dog. However, this defence rarely succeeds.
Only when there is deliberately reckless behaviour on the part of the victim can the compensation be reduced.
Evidence in personal injury caused by a dog bite
Although liability is often clear, evidence remains important. Consider:
- medical records;
- photographs of the injury;
- statements from witnesses;
- details of the dog and owner.
We actively assist clients in collecting and organising this evidence.
Limitation period: how long do you have to claim damages?
A damage claim for personal injury caused by a dog bite generally expires after five years from the moment you know who is liable and that you have suffered damage.
Different rules apply for minors. Therefore, do not wait too long.
Does legal assistance cost me money?
In personal injury cases, the costs of legal assistance are in most cases recovered from the liable party or their insurer. As a result, you as the victim bear no net financial risk.
Why choose Arslan Advocaten?
We have extensive experience with cases involving personal injury caused by a dog bite. We know the legal pitfalls, understand how insurers operate, and are committed to obtaining full compensation.
In addition, we communicate clearly, act decisively, and guide you personally.
Would you like to know whether you are entitled to compensation after a dog bite? Please feel free to contact us for a no-obligation assessment.