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What You Need to Know About Dog Bite Law in Idaho
Idaho does not follow the traditional “one-bite rule” in the way many people assume. Dog owners can be held liable the first time their dog injures someone.
Under Idaho law, owners are responsible when:
- Their dog bites or attacks someone
- The victim was lawfully on the property
- The victim did not provoke the animal
You do not have to prove the dog had a history of aggression. Liability often attaches immediately, making these claims more straightforward than many other injury cases.
Who Can Be Held Responsible?
Liable parties may include:
- The dog’s owner
- A property owner who allowed a dangerous dog on the premises
- A landlord who knew of a dangerous animal and failed to act
Identifying the correct source of insurance coverage is critical to recovering full compensation.
Idaho does not follow the traditional “one-bite rule” in the way many people assume. Dog owners can be held liable the first time their dog injures someone.
Common Injuries in Dog Bite Cases
Dog attacks often cause more than puncture wounds. Victims may suffer:
- Deep lacerations and scarring
- Nerve damage
- Infections
- Broken bones
- Facial injuries
- Permanent disfigurement
- Emotional trauma, especially in children
Many victims require surgery, rehabilitation, or long-term psychological treatment.
What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite
1. Clean the Wound and Seek Medical Care
Dog bites carry a high risk of infection. Prompt medical treatment protects your health and creates critical documentation for your claim.
2. Identify the Dog and Owner
Obtain the owner’s contact information and confirm vaccination status if possible.
3. Document Everything
Take photos of injuries, torn clothing, and the location. Gather witness contact information.
4. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Alone
Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. Speak with a lawyer before giving recorded statements.
Compensation Available in Meridian Dog Bite Claims
Dog bite victims may recover compensation for:
Medical Expenses
- Emergency treatment
- Surgery
- Hospital stays
- Physical therapy
- Scar revision procedures
- Future medical care
Lost Income
- Missed work
- Reduced earning capacity
- Long-term disability
Pain and Suffering
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress
- PTSD
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Every case is different. We carefully calculate both current and future damages to ensure you pursue full and fair compensation.
Speak With a Meridian Dog Bite Lawyer Today
If you or your child was bitten by a dog in Meridian, early legal guidance can protect your rights and strengthen your claim. Idaho law provides strong protections for victims — but acting quickly matters.
Contact Johnson & Lundgreen today for a free consultation. There are no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Idaho?
In most cases, Idaho’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury.
What if the dog belonged to a friend or neighbor?
Claims are typically handled through homeowner’s insurance, not paid personally by the dog owner.
Can I recover compensation if the bite happened on private property?
Yes, as long as you were lawfully present and did not provoke the animal.
What if the dog didn’t bite but knocked me down?
You may still have a valid claim if the dog’s actions caused injury.
Johnson & Lundgreen proudly serves injury victims across Meridian, Boise, Eagle, Nampa, Kuna, and Caldwell, as well as throughout Ada County and Canyon County.