The law governing dog bites can be found in state laws, county and city ordinances, and rules developed from actual cases. Dog bites can fall under both civil (personal injury) and criminal law.

One of the most interesting rules is an old English law called the “one bite rule.” This ancient law protected a dog owner from criminal or civil liability/responsibility until the owner had a certain degree of knowledge that his dog is dangerous. Most states have ended the “one bite rule” and now dog owners can be held liable if their dog bites a person and the victim was not trespassing or provoking the dog.

Precautions to Take when Around Dogs

There are some danger signs that every person should be aware of when dealing with strange dogs. It is particularly important to teach children to exercise caution when approaching or trying to handle an unfamiliar dog. There are several factors that are commonly present in dog bite attacks:

• More than one dog has been present in the yard without the owner supervising.
• Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Akitas and Chows are most frequently involved in attacks. The two most common breeds involved in dog bites are Pit Bulls and Rottweilers.
• Beware of a pack mentality. Dogs act differently in a group and can become uncharacteristically violent.
• Chained or tethered dogs can still attack you if you get too close to them.
• Male dogs are more dangerous than females.

If you have been the victim of a dog bite in Jackson, Mississippi, please contact Coxwell & Associates, PLLC today to schedule a consultation.