What should I do if my dog bit someone? 23 Answers as of February 17, 2012

If your town has an 'aggressive animal' ordinance you might end up being charged with violating that ordinance if the mother of the child reports the matter to the police. However, it did not sound like she was going to do that, from your description. There is some concern about a civil suit I suppose but it would seem to make sense to wait and see what happens on that score before doing anything.

Your insurance company should take care of it if there is a claim made. If the woman doesn't ask for your information you probably don't need to notify your insurance carrier. If she does or you get a letter from an attorney, do so then. If she wants the kids medical bills paid for, also do so then. In the future though, make sure your dog is restrained. What you have described would likely subject you to liability if a claim were to be made. Any dog that is willing to rip through a fence to get to someone, certainly places them in danger and has the propensity to injure. Also, remember, it's not your dog's fault so don't blame him and treat him well.

Not yet. Wait until you get a demand.

Yes. It seems unlikely that a formal claim will be filed, but you are required to notify your insurer of a possible claim so they don't refuse to help you later if this trick or treater comes back to haunt you.

Your homeowner's insurance would cover you for any injuries caused by your dog. Call your insurance company and let them know. The injured party may not pursue, but you should at least put the company on notice.

Yes. You should contact your insurance company if you believe a claim will be brought. In Utah, we have strict liability for dog bites which makes cases easy to prove. You have a contract with your insurance company and they are obligated contractually to defend you.

From the facts stated, it appears that you are liabile for the child's injury from the dog bite. The dog should have beensecurely fastensince it was Halloween. Not only should you inform your homeowner's insurance company, you should also try to locate the injured child's parent(s) to find out the extent of the child's injuryand the medical expenses whichwill beincurred.

You should definitely call your insurance company just to be safe. In the event that a claim or a lawsuit is filed in the future, your insurance carrier has a duty to defend you.

This question is more of a personal injury issue than a criminal defense issue. It's not usually a crime in California for a dog to accidentally get loose and bite someone.

If I were in your shoes, I would inform the insurance company that a claim might be forthcoming. It's the safest course of action. I would do it by simply informing my insurance agent of what happened. There likely will not be a formal claim unless the lady actually pursues it.

No, I wouldn't call to inform your insurance company just yet. At this time, you are not even aware that there is a claim to be filed. If she contacts you again, then I would consider calling to advise them of the potential claim.

You should advise your insurance of the possible claim in order to protect your insurance coverage for the incident. You are absolute liable for injuries suffered by someone who is bitten by a dog owned by you.