Dog bites can result in serious injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens for victims and their families. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Rhode Island, understanding the state’s laws governing these incidents is crucial for protecting your rights and pursuing fair compensation. At MFC Law, we specialize in representing dog bite victims across Rhode Island, providing expert legal guidance tailored to the nuances of local statutes and case precedents.

Rhode Island Dog Bite Law Explained:

In Rhode Island, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets. This means that regardless of the dog’s history or the circumstances surrounding the incident, the owner is typically responsible for compensating the victim for their damages. Unlike some states, Rhode Island does not have a “one-bite rule” that allows dog owners to escape liability for their pet’s first bite.

1. Premises Liability: Dog bite incidents often occur on private property, such as the owner’s home or a friend’s residence. If you were lawfully on someone else’s property when the attack occurred, the property owner may be held liable for failing to prevent the incident.
2. Leash Law Violations: Rhode Island has strict leash laws in place to protect the public from dog-related injuries. If a dog was off-leash or not properly restrained when it attacked you, the owner may be held accountable for violating these laws and causing your injuries.
3. Provocation Defense: In some cases, dog owners may attempt to argue that the victim provoked the dog, thereby absolving them of liability. Our attorneys are skilled at investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine whether this defense is applicable to your case.
4. Severe Injuries and Emotional Trauma: Dog bites can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe lacerations, fractures, and nerve damage. Additionally, victims may experience long-term emotional trauma, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Our firm understands the full scope of the damages caused by dog bites and will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for your physical and emotional suffering.