Dog bite incidents are sometimes more than painful experiences; they can be life-altering events leaving victims grappling with physical injuries, emotional scars, and financial burdens. In Calgary, dog bite laws are designed to ensure victims can seek justice and hold dog owners accountable for their actions – or lack thereof. Understanding dog bite laws is essential for anyone who has suffered a dog bite attack.
At Grover Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a dog bite can feel. Our mission is to support victims by helping them navigate Calgary’s complex dog bite laws while advocating for the justice they deserve.
This article will delve into Calgary’s dog bite laws, explain the responsibilities of dog owners, and explore how victims can pursue justice. Whether you are seeking clarity about your rights or considering legal action, our aim is to provide comprehensive information in an empathetic and reassuring tone.
What Is the Responsible Pet Ownership (RPO) Bylaw?
In Calgary, the Responsible Pet Ownership (RPO) Bylaw plays a big role in keeping residents safe from dangerous animals.
This bylaw holds dog owners accountable for their dogs’ behaviour, ensuring vicious animals are not a risk to the public. Failure to comply with these laws could lead to fines and legal action. If you have been bitten by a dog, it is important to understand how this law works.
The statute gives the Chief Bylaw Officer the power to declare a dog “vicious” if it has shown clear signs of being dangerous. If the Chief Bylaw Officer believes a dog poses a risk, he or she can label it as vicious immediately and impose certain safety measures. Knowing whether or not a dog’s owner is complying with the law is crucial for any dog bite case.
What Happens If a Dog Is Considered Vicious?
Calgary’s dog bite laws ensure that victims can seek justice for the harm inflicted by their animals. Therefore, if a dog has shown aggressive behaviour or caused harm in the past, it could be classified as vicious.
The term “vicious” isn’t used lightly. It’s reserved for dogs that pose a serious threat to public safety. The owner of a vicious dog is required to keep the animal under strict supervision.
For example, when on private property, a vicious dog must either:
- Be confined indoors under the control of an adult over 18
- Be locked in a secure outdoor structure, or;
- Be muzzled and leashed while under the supervision of an adult
If the dog is taken outside, it must be muzzled, leashed, and under the control of an adult. On public property, the dog must always be muzzled and leashed.
If you have been bitten by a dangerous dog that was classified as “vicious,” and the dog owner was negligent in controlling the animal, this designation can make it easier for you to pursue compensation.
How Does the Alberta Dangerous Dogs Act Affect You?
On top of municipal bylaws, Alberta also hasthe Dangerous Dogs Act, which lays out penalties for when a dog is considered dangerous. Upon receiving a complaint, a dog can be classified as dangerous if it has bitten, tried to bite someone, or shown aggressive behaviour toward people or other animals.
If a dog is deemed dangerous in the eyes of the law, the animal may be ordered to be put down. In some cases, the dog may be allowed to remain with the owner, but with strict restrictions.
The Dangerous Dogs Act is meant to ensure the safety of the community. So the good news is that if you are a victim of a vicious dog attack, the law is on your side and the owner will face consequences.
What Are Your Legal Options After a Dog Bite Incident?
Dog bite victims in Calgary have several legal avenues to pursue justice and compensation. Understanding these options empowers victims to make informed decisions about their recovery and the legal steps they wish to take.
Filing a personal injury claim against the dog’s owner
The most common avenue is to pursue a personal injury claim against the dog owner. Filing a personal injury claim is particularly effective in cases where the dog has a history of aggression.
If you can prove the dog owner’s actions directly contributed to the incident – such as failing to keep the dog properly confined, failing to follow Calgary’s dog bite laws, or allowing the dog to roam free – he or she can be held liable for your injuries.
The compensation you receive for your damages and losses depends on the circumstances of your case. For example, you may receive a settlement that provides compensation for emergency care, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation or other medical expenses related to the dog bite.
You may also be entitled to reimbursement for income lost during recovery. Additionally, you could receive compensation for any physical pain and emotional distress caused by the attack.
In cases where the attack occurred on private property, victims may file claims against property owners or occupiers under the Occupiers’ Liability Act. If property owners knowingly allow a dangerous dog on their property without implementing safety measures, then they could share liability for an attack.
This liability can also extend to situations involving homeowners hosting social gatherings. If a homeowner fails to secure his or her dog during an event and the dog bites a guest, the homeowner could face legal action.
Negotiating settlements
Many dog bite cases are resolved through settlements with the dog owner’s insurance company. A knowledgeable lawyer can help victims negotiate a fair settlement that accounts for all aspects of their injuries, from medical expenses to emotional trauma.
Taking legal action in court
If settlement negotiations fail, victims have the option to file a lawsuit. In court, a lawyer will present evidence, call witnesses, and argue for maximum compensation. While litigation can be complex, it often provides a clearer resolution to challenging cases involving disputed liability or contributory negligence.
What If You Contributed to the Attack?
Calgary’s dog bite laws are designed to protect victims. However, in rare cases, a dog bite victim may have played a role in provoking the attack. If you were teasing the dog or acted aggressively toward it, your actions could affect the outcome of your claim.
Still, even if your actions contributed to the incident, the dog’s owner has a responsibility to control his or her animal – you still may have a right to compensation. Under the principle of contributory negligence, when a victim’s actions may partially contribute to the incident, the compensation he or she receives is reduced.
How to Protect Your Legal Rights
If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, taking swift action is crucial for your health and potential legal cases.
Even if the injury appears minor, dog bites can introduce bacteria that lead to infection. Prompt medical care can prevent complications.
Next, you should file a report with animal services or local law enforcement. This ensures there is an official record of the attack, which is vital for legal purposes.
Be sure to take photographs of your injuries, the location of the attack, and (if possible) the dog involved. Collecting evidence strengthens your case.
Remember to obtain the dog owner’s contact information as well as the names of any witnesses. This information is essential for pursuing a claim under Calgary’s dog bite laws.
Lastly, consult a dog bite lawyer. He or she can provide guidance on your next steps, ensuring you understand your rights and options. Whether you have suffered minor injuries or permanent scarring, having a knowledgeable lawyer by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
How Grover Law Firm Advocates for Dog Bite Victims
At Grover Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping personal injury victims, including those who have been hurt by animals, navigate the legal system with confidence and clarity. Our empathetic approach ensures that each client feels heard, supported, and empowered to pursue justice.
At Grover Law Firm, we assist dog bite victims by:
- Explaining dog bite laws: Helping you understand how Calgary’s laws apply to your case
- Gathering evidence: Collecting medical records, witness statements, and other documentation to build a strong case
- Negotiating settlements: Working with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement that covers medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma
- Representing you in court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to advocate for you in court
The aftermath of a dog attack extends far beyond physical injuries. Victims often face emotional trauma, financial strain, and changes to their quality of life.
For children, the psychological impact of a dog bite can be profound. Many develop a fear of dogs or experience difficulty trusting animals in the future.
Elderly victims, on the other hand, may face prolonged recovery times and complications from injuries. Families of victims also endure challenges, particularly when the injured person requires ongoing medical care or rehabilitation.
We understand the challenges that many dog bite victims face – financially, physically, and emotionally. That’s why our compassionate team works diligently to build a strong case for compensation on behalf of our clients.
Since we handle the complexities of legal proceedings, our clients can focus on healing and moving forward. We stand ready to fight on your behalf too.
A Path Forward for Dog Bite Victims
Dog bites can have devastating consequences, but victims should know they are not alone in their struggle. Calgary’s and Alberta’s dog bite laws are designed to protect victims and ensure accountability for those responsible. These statutes exist to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially from injuries that are not your fault.
Dog owners have a responsibility to make sure their pets don’t cause harm, and property owners also play a role in ensuring safety. If you have been injured, you shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden on your own – our team is here to support you in every way possible.
At Grover Law Firm, we are here to guide you every step of the way, offering compassionate legal representation tailored to your unique needs. We understand the emotional, physical, and financial strain you are facing, and we are committed to fighting for your rights.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a dog bite, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Grover Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation, and let us help you reclaim your rights and secure the justice you deserve.