What Are the Virginia Dog Bite Laws?

At Wind Law, LLC, our Richmond personal injury lawyer knows Virginia has specific laws governing dog bites and owner liability.

Virginia follows a “one bite” rule for dog bites. This means that a dog owner can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog if they knew or should have known the dog could be dangerous. Strict liability means that an owner is legally responsible even if they took all the precautions a careful owner should take.

The strict liability rule applies to injuries on public property and private property, including the owner’s property, as long as the individual who was bitten was not trespassing or committing another criminal offense on the owner’s property at the time of the incident.

Are Virginia Dog Owners Required to Keep Their Pets on Leashes?

In some localities, leash laws may require owners to keep their dogs on a leash or under control when in public areas. Violations of leash laws can contribute to the owner’s liability in the event of a dog bite incident.

Who Can Be Pursued for Dog Bite Injuries and the Resulting Damages in Virginia?

If the dog’s owner has a homeowner insurance policy, it would most likely cover injuries caused by the dog’s owner. However, some policies will exclude coverage if the dog is a dangerous breed or has aggressive tendencies.

What Happens If the Owner Knows the Dog is Dangerous and It Bites Someone Anyway?

Virginia law also addresses the designation of certain dogs as “dangerous.” If a dog has been declared dangerous due to a history of aggressive behavior, the owner may be subject to additional regulations, including the requirement to register the dog as dangerous, maintain certain enclosures, and obtain liability insurance.

How Long Do I Have to Pursue a Dog Bite Injury Claim in Virginia?

In Virginia, the injured person generally has two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit.

If you have been bitten by a dog in Virginia, contact our dedicated Richmond personal injury attorney today to discuss how the attack has impacted your life during a free consultation. We can help you understand your rights, assess the strength of your case, and guide you through the legal process.