Rhode Island’s Dog Bite Law: Location Matters
Rhode Island dog bite law differs depending on where the attack happened.
Dog Bites on the Dog Owner’s Property
Rhode Island’s "one bite rule" states that a dog owner can be held liable for a bite or attack on their property only if they knew about the dog’s aggressive tendencies. If the dog had never bitten or attacked anyone before, the owner might argue they were unaware that their dog was dangerous.
Dog Bites on Other People’s Property
RI Gen Laws § 4-13-16 states that if a dog harms or kills any domestic animal or injures a person while away from its owner’s property, the owner is responsible for all damages. The owner must pay double the amount if the dog causes more damage later. Additionally, the court may order the dog to be put down. It doesn’t matter if the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
How a Warwick Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help You
Working with an experienced lawyer from Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum can help you understand how the law applies to your case. We can protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and fight for your full compensation. With the right evidence and advocacy, you could recover compensation for damages such as:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages and loss of future income earnings
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Other related expenses
Real Results for Rhode Island Dog Bite Victims
At Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum, we are dedicated to getting our clients the results they deserve. For example, we helped a woman who was walking her leashed dog in her neighborhood when another dog attacked. She was bitten multiple times while trying to separate the two dogs and suffered a broken thumb. We secured a successful $15,000 settlement for her. In another case, we represented a young boy who was bitten by a friend’s family dog who lunged and attacked him. Despite the challenge of proving the dog’s owners knew it was dangerous, we secured a $155,000 settlement for the boy.
Every case is unique, but our goal remains the same—to help our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. To learn more about how our lawyers have helped other Rhode Island dog bite victims, check out our case results and testimonials.