Dog Bite Attorney in Indiana

What Is Strict Liability & How Is It Different Than Normal "Negligence?"

As Indiana animal and dog bite attorneys, we often see that the most unfortunate aspect of these cases is the impact on the victims, usually young children. In most cases, the owner of a dog or any other domestic animal is “strictly liable” for any injuries or property damage caused by their animal. Strict liability is much easier to prove than negligence.

Victims in Fort Wayne and throughout Allen County may face added stress after an animal attack. Indiana’s dog bite laws create clear grounds for holding owners responsible, even if the dog has never previously acted aggressively. When strict liability applies, the claimant does not need to prove that the owner acted carelessly—only that the bite or injury occurred under the circumstances described by law. Understanding this legal difference can help you make confident, informed choices if you consider pursuing a claim with a dog bite attorney in Fort Wayne or elsewhere in Indiana.

Call now to speak with a trusted Indiana dog bite lawyer about your rights. We’ll guide you through every step with clarity and care.

Under Indiana Code §15-20-1-3, a dog owner is strictly liable for:

1. A dog biting a person without provocation.
2. A dog biting a person who is acting peaceably.
3. A dog biting a person who is in a location where the person may be required to be to discharge a duty imposed upon the person by:
   1. The laws of Indiana.
   2. The laws of the United States; or
   3. The postal regulations of the United States.
   4. The owner of the dog is liable for all damages suffered by the person bitten.
   5. The owner of a dog described in subsection (a) is liable for damages even if:
   6. The dog has not previously behaved viciously; or
   7. The owner has no knowledge of prior vicious behavior by the dog.

Indiana’s strict liability law holds dog owners responsible for injuries their animals cause, whether from a bite or from knocking someone down and causing an accident. Fort Wayne victims often face immediate medical bills and missed work, making prompt treatment at facilities like Parkview Regional Medical Center or Lutheran Hospital important for both health and proper documentation of injuries.

A dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance may cover these damages, but many policies exclude certain breeds or dog-related incidents. This is why it’s important to have Attorney Jeff “JJ” Shaw review the policy for any exclusions that could affect your ability to recover compensation.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Fort Wayne

Acting quickly after a dog bite can make a meaningful difference for your health and peace of mind. Move to a safe area, away from the dog, to prevent further injury, and wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water to lower the risk of infection. Regardless of how minor the bite may seem, seek professional medical care in Fort Wayne so a healthcare provider can assess and document your injuries. If you are able, record key details about the incident—collect the dog owner’s name, address, contact information, and information about the animal, including vaccination records when possible. Take clear photos of your injuries, the location, and the dog if you can do so safely, and write down witness contact information that may assist with a claim involving a Fort Wayne dog bite attorney or insurance review.

Report the attack to Allen County Animal Care & Control or local law enforcement to create an official record, as an investigation may follow to determine whether further steps are needed for community safety. This documentation can also support any discussions with insurance carriers. Avoid speaking with the dog owner’s insurer until you understand your rights, and consider consulting a dog bite lawyer in Fort Wayne who can explain the process and help you protect your interests as you decide how to move forward.

Types of Compensation Available for Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite injuries can result in high costs, both immediately and long-term. Indiana law may allow you to pursue financial recovery for more than just emergency room visits or hospital bills after a dog attack in Fort Wayne. Understanding what damages you might be able to claim helps you decide your next move with a qualified dog bite attorney in Fort Wayne.

Potential compensation in Indiana dog bite cases goes beyond medical costs. You may be able to seek financial relief for:

• Medical expenses: treatment, medication, surgeries, therapy, and future healthcare needs relating to the injury
• Lost income: wages missed during recovery or a lasting impact on your ability to work
• Pain and suffering: compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you experience from the attack
• Scarring or permanent impairment: damages for the long-term changes or limitations that the bite causes
• Property damage: for any clothing, jewelry, or items damaged during the incident

Indiana does not set a cap on recoverable damages for most dog bite injury claims, though insurance policy limits sometimes restrict what can be collected. If the dog’s owner has minimal or no insurance, collecting a full recovery may prove more challenging. Consulting with gives you a clearer understanding of your legal rights and paths to fair compensation.

For immediate guidance and dedicated support, contact our today or request your case evaluation online to get the answers you need.

Why Choose for Your Fort Wayne Dog Bite Case?

With over 30 years serving Indiana families, Shaw Law delivers proven results on personal injury and premises liability cases. Led by attorney Jeff "JJ" Shaw, our team stands apart by providing clients with regular updates and honest advice—including easy, secure access to case status through our exclusive EZ Case app. This client-focused technology gives you real-time updates on the progress of your claim and potential outcomes.

Our firm operates from four offices across Indiana, offering representation for a wide range of injury claims. We take on business-related injury cases on a contingency fee basis, easing financial stress for injured clients. We provide clear guidance about insurance policies and landlord liability and support claims through every stage of the process. Our dog bite lawyer in Fort Wayne remains dedicated to restoring peace of mind and rebuilding our clients’ quality of life. When you reach out, you can expect transparency, compassion, and practical advice throughout your legal journey.

Can I Hold a Landlord Liable for Dog Bites in Indiana?

Yes, under certain circumstances.

Landlords in Indiana may be held responsible for dog bite injuries if they knew a dangerous animal was on the property and failed to take action. If a Fort Wayne landlord receives complaints about an aggressive dog and does nothing, state law may hold them liable if a tenant or visitor is harmed. While the dog owner is typically the primary party at fault, landlords can also be included in claims when their inaction contributes to unsafe conditions, especially in apartment complexes where they have control over the premises.

Dog attacks can occur anywhere in Fort Wayne—apartment buildings, neighborhoods, and public parks—highlighting the need for property owners and managers to take complaints seriously and maintain safe environments. At Shaw Law, we believe every accident is preventable and that no victim should carry the burden of another person’s negligence.

FAQs

What Should I Do If a Dog Bites My Child in Fort Wayne?

First, get your child to safety and seek immediate medical care. Document all injuries, report the attack to Allen County Animal Care & Control, and get the dog owner’s contact and insurance details if you can. A dog bite attorney in Fort Wayne can answer questions about your family’s rights and help outline what steps come next.

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Indiana?

Indiana law generally allows two years from the injury date to file a personal injury claim, including dog bite claims. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation, so start the process as soon as possible.

For detailed information on how we can help resolve your case, fill out our online form or call us at (260) 777-7777 directly.