When someone is bitten by a dog that is owned by someone else, the dog owner may be held responsible. If the dog’s owner is not taking their responsibilities seriously, Kentucky law may require the dog owner to take specific steps to protect others from their dog.
At any time that a dog owner is not taking steps to protect others from their dog, they may be required to keep the pet under better control.
When is a dog owner responsible for causing injury to someone?
The dog may not be on a leash when they leave their property. If the unleashed dog runs up to a child and snaps at, or bites the child, the child’s parents may be able to seek legal compensation for any injuries caused to the child. This includes any emotional trauma the child may suffer as a result of the dog attack.
Dog bites and the law in Kentucky
The Agriculture and Animals Statute, Section 258.235 assigns civil liability for dog bites to the owner of the dog. This means that people may be able to seek damages for themselves, their livestock or other property.
If the owner’s dog attacks or bites someone, the injured person may have the dog owner served with paperwork to appear at a court hearing.
Should the court rule that the dog attacked a human while it was not in its yard, the owner may be required to pay a fine that ranges between $50 and $200. They may also serve 10 to 60 days in jail. The dog may be ordered destroyed or the owner may be required to keep the dog securely confined.
Does Kentucky have vicious dog laws?
If a Kentucky court returns a dog to its owner after deeming it “vicious,” the dog must be kept in a 7-foot high locked enclosure, among other requirements.