The dog bite laws in Wisconsin are strict liability laws that hold dog owners responsible when their dog injures someone. In Wisconsin, an owner is legally responsible if their dog bites or attacks another person, even if the dog never showed aggressive behavior before.
This means you do not have to prove the owner was careless—the law assumes the owner is responsible. Still, dog bite cases can quickly become complex. Victims in these cases can face medical bills, lost income, and insurance companies that fight hard to avoid paying damages.
This is where our experienced Milwaukee dog bite injury lawyers can help. We will gather evidence, prove liability under the law, and fight for the damages you deserve.
Understanding How Wisconsin’s Dog Bite Law Works
Wisconsin uses a strict liability rule for dog bites, as outlined in Wis. Stat. § 174.02. Here’s what the law says in plain language:
- First bite or injury: If a dog injures someone, the owner must pay all damages that the animal causes. It does not matter if the dog had never bitten anyone before or if the owner had no warning that the dog might attack.
- Second bite or repeat injury: If the dog has already injured someone before and then hurts another person, the owner may owe double damages.
Strict liability makes Wisconsin one of the toughest states for dog owners. The law protects others by making sure owners cannot avoid responsibility.
What Are Double Damages?
In Wisconsin, double damages mean the victim can collect twice the amount of money they would normally get if the dog had already bitten or injured someone before.
For example:
- If a dog bites a person for the first time and their medical bills are $10,000, the owner must pay $10,000.
- If the same dog bites someone again later, and the damages are $10,000, the owner could be forced to pay $20,000.
This rule exists to encourage dog owners to take action after the first incident. If they fail to prevent another attack, the law punishes them by increasing the damages.
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Why Dog Bite Injury Cases Matter in Wisconsin
Dog bite cases matter because they protect injured parties and the community. When someone files a claim, it’s not only about recovering damages for medical bills or lost wages. It also holds dog owners accountable and pushes them to prevent future attacks.
Wisconsin’s strict dog bite laws exist to:
- Protect those who have been injured: Medical care, scarring, and lost income can have lasting effects.
- Encourage responsibility: Owners are expected to control their dogs after the first incident.
- Prevent future harm: By holding owners accountable, the law reduces the risk of repeat attacks.
Every case has a bigger purpose. Seeking damages can provide closure, support recovery, and help keep neighborhoods safer.
Who Pays for Damages in a Dog Bite Case?
In most cases, the dog owner’s homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy pays for damages. This can include:
- Medical bills: Hospital visits, stitches, surgeries, medications, exams, or long-term care.
- Lost income: Wages or earnings missed while recovering.
- Pain and suffering: The physical and emotional impact of the injury.’
- Scarring and disfigurement: Permanent injuries, especially on the face or hands.
Insurance companies, however, often try to pay less than what a victim deserves. That’s why having a lawyer on your side is important.
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Do the Dog Attack Laws in Wisconsin Cover More Than Bites?
Yes. Wisconsin’s dog bite statute does not apply to bites only. If a dog injures someone in another way, the owner may still be held responsible for their damages. Examples include:
- A large dog knocks someone over, causing broken bones.
- A dog scratches a child’s face, leaving scars.
- A dog runs into the road and causes a bicyclist to crash.
In all of these cases, the injured person may be able to recover damages from the dog’s owner.
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What Happens If the Dog Owner Denies Responsibility?
Sometimes, owners argue that the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing. Wisconsin law makes exceptions in these cases.
- Provocation: If you teased, hurt, or provoked the dog, the owner may not be fully responsible.
- Trespassing: If you were illegally on the dog owner’s property, you may not be able to recover damages.
Because these defenses can complicate your case, it helps to have legal representation to challenge unfair arguments.
How Long Do You Have to Sue for Dog Bite Injuries in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bite cases, is three years from the date of the injury under Wis. Stat. § 893.54. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover damages.
We know that the aftermath of a dog bite can be a lot to deal with, but it is important to get legal help right away if you want to hold someone responsible for your damages.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Dog Bite Injury in Wisconsin
Taking the right steps after a dog bite can protect your health and your legal case:
- Get medical help right away: Dog bites can lead to infections and scarring.
- Report the bite or injury: File a report with local animal control or the police. This creates a record of the incident.
- Identify the dog and owner: Write down the owner’s name, address, and insurance information. If possible, get the dog’s name and a description of how it looks.
- Collect evidence: Take photos of the injuries, the dog, and where the attack happened.
- Talk to witnesses: Get contact information from anyone who saw the attack.
- Get legal help: Our attorney for dog bite injuries will lead the claims process for you and deal with the insurance company.
Our Wisconsin Dog Bite Injury Lawyers Are Ready to Help You
Dog bite cases are not always simple. Insurance companies often try to blame the victim or downplay the seriousness of injuries. Our dog bite injury lawyers in Milwaukee know these tactics and will fight for the damages you deserve.
If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a canine attack, we will lead your case. Gruber Law Offices, headquartered in Milwaukee, has fought for Wisconsin’s injured for more than 40 years. Our team of 130+ legal professionals has the resources to take on insurance companies right away.
It costs nothing up front to hire us. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not pay us a dime unless we win your case. Your first consultation is always free. Make One Call…That’s All to learn how we can help you move forward after a dog bite or animal attack.
Call or text (414) 276-6666 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
