Dog bites can have devastating physical and emotional consequences for the victims due to pain, scarring and disfigurement. In Oregon the victim of the bite can recover economic damages such as lost wages and medical expenses without having to prove that the owner should have known the dog would bite. ORS 31.360 (1). This statute makes the owner or possessor of the dog strictly liable for the economic damages caused by the bite, as long as the dog was not provoked. In order to recover non-economic damages, such as physical and emotional pain and suffering, the victim must prove that the dog owner was negligent, which led to the bite.
The long-term effect of a dog bite can be lasting and requires careful evaluation. This firm has tried and successfully settled many claims involving dog bites. We look forward to hearing from you.
