If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property in Collinsville—whether due to a slippery floor, unsafe stairs, or poor lighting—you may have a legal right to compensation. At Knight Law Firm, our premises liability lawyer is dedicated to helping you hold negligent property owners accountable. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take, and we’re here to fight for the justice you deserve. Call us today at (918) 496-1200 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
Understanding Your Rights After a Dog Bite in Collinsville
Dog bites can cause serious injuries, both physical and emotional. In Collinsville, victims have legal options if they are hurt by someone else’s dog. Knowing how dog bite liability works in Oklahoma can help injured individuals protect their rights and seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Oklahoma Follows Strict Liability Rules
Oklahoma is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites. This means that a dog owner can be held responsible for injuries caused by their dog, even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression before. Unlike states that require a victim to prove that the dog had a history of biting or violent behavior, Oklahoma law does not give the dog or the owner a “free bite.”
Under Title 4, Section 42.1 of the Oklahoma Statutes, the law states that a dog owner is liable if:
- The bite happens in a public place or lawfully on private property.
- The victim did not provoke the dog.
This makes it easier for victims in Collinsville to file a claim without needing to prove negligence.
When Is a Dog Owner Not Liable?
There are exceptions to strict liability. If the person bitten was trespassing or provoking the dog, the owner may not be held responsible. For example, if someone jumps a fence and enters a yard without permission, and the dog bites them, the law may not support a claim for damages. Similarly, teasing or hitting a dog before a bite can be seen as provocation and might reduce or eliminate the owner’s liability.
Another potential defense is if the dog was protecting its owner from harm. In such cases, the bite may be considered justifiable.
Dog Bites on Private Property
Dog bite incidents on private property often lead to legal questions about whether the victim had the right to be there. If someone was invited onto the property—such as a guest, postal worker, or delivery driver—they are considered lawfully present. In those cases, the dog owner is usually liable for any bite injuries that occur.
However, if the person was trespassing or entering without permission, proving liability becomes more difficult. It’s important to gather details about the nature of the visit and whether the property owner gave consent.
Types of Injuries from Dog Bites
Dog bites can lead to a wide range of injuries. Some are minor, requiring basic wound care. Others can be severe, involving:
- Puncture wounds
- Lacerations
- Nerve damage
- Infections, including rabies
- Emotional trauma or PTSD
- Scarring or disfigurement
In children and older adults, the injuries are often more serious. Prompt medical attention is essential, both for physical recovery and documentation if a legal claim is filed.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Collinsville
If you or someone you care about is bitten by a dog, taking the right steps immediately can strengthen a future injury claim:
- Seek medical attention right away, even if the wound looks small. Infections can develop quickly.
- Report the incident to local authorities. In Collinsville, this may involve the city’s animal control or police department.
- Identify the dog and its owner. Get their names, contact information, and the dog’s vaccination history.
- Document the injury. Take photos of the wounds, location of the attack, and any torn clothing or other damage.
- Talk to witnesses. Their statements could support your version of events.
- Avoid making agreements. Don’t accept money or sign anything from the dog’s owner or insurance company without legal advice.
Filing a Dog Bite Claim
A dog bite claim in Collinsville typically falls under a homeowner’s insurance policy if the attack occurred on the dog owner’s property. These claims often include compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Emotional distress
An experienced personal injury lawyer can guide you through the process, ensuring you gather the right evidence and meet the necessary legal deadlines.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Cases
Oklahoma law gives dog bite victims two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your chance to seek compensation, even if the claim would have otherwise succeeded.
Starting early allows your attorney time to investigate, speak with witnesses, and build a strong case. It also prevents insurance companies from using delays against you.
Liability Beyond the Dog Owner
In some situations, others may share responsibility for a dog bite. For example, if a landlord knew a tenant had a dangerous dog but did nothing about it, the landlord might also be held liable. Similarly, a pet sitter or dog walker who loses control of an aggressive animal could be found partially responsible for an attack.
Determining who is at fault requires a careful review of the circumstances. A lawyer can evaluate whether multiple parties may be liable.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Dog bite cases can seem straightforward, but insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. They might argue that the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing, or they may offer a quick settlement that doesn’t cover long-term costs.
A qualified personal injury lawyer can push back against these tactics. They’ll help ensure your claim reflects the full impact of your injuries—both physical and emotional. They also manage all communication with insurance adjusters, so you can focus on healing.
Injured on Someone Else’s Property? Let a Collinsville Premises Liability Lawyer Fight for You
When a property owner’s negligence turns your everyday routine into a painful and costly ordeal, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. A premises liability lawyer from Knight Law Firm is ready to stand by your side, fight for your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve. With deep roots in the Collinsville community and a commitment to compassionate legal care, we’re here to help you move forward. Call Knight Law Firm today at (918) 496-1200 to schedule your free consultation—because accountability starts with action.
