Indiana accident laws follow the one-bite ruling. This indicates that the pet owner is liable if they possessed previous knowledge that the dog could become aggressive or malicious. This ruling applies strictly to victims who were inside the area lawfully and behaved peacefully.
Reviewing Statute IC 15-20-1-3
This Indiana state statute indicates that the pet owner must cover the cost of medical expenses when the victim was inside the area performing a duty. This encompasses law enforcement, emergency medical staff, and repair service technicians. However, it isn’t limited to these individuals only. The statute indicates that these victims were inside the area in question legally.
Quarantine Orders for Animals
After an animal bite in Terre Haute, IN occurs, an investigation is conducted. Whenever a victim seeks medical attention for a dog bite, the medical staff must notify animal control. This notification results in a quarantine order. The county requires the pet owner to place the animal in quarantine to determine if it is infected with rabies or exhibits any aggressive behaviors. This evaluation takes up to twelve days to complete and determines if the animal is a danger to society.
Comparative Fault in Animal Attacks
The comparative fault would come into play if the victim didn’t possess the legal right to enter the premises. For example, if the victim was trespassing during the time of the incident, it is possible that the pet owner could claim that the animal was protecting its property. Equally, if the victim provoked the animal deliberately, comparative fault is present. In these cases, the animal must act on its own accord without encouragement.
Previous Claims Against the Pet
Pet owners who harbor animals that were identified previously in attack cases are liable. In these instances, they are required to ensure that the animal doesn’t come in contact with others to prevent further attacks. In some instances, the state could order euthanization of the animal as well as monetary damages to the victim.
Under Indiana laws, all pet owners are responsible for preventing personal injuries. They are required to follow any lease laws that are applicable to their area and to restrain any animals that are known threats to others. When an animal bite in Terre Haute, IN occurs, the victim has the legal right to file a formal claim to seek damages. Victims of animal attacks are encouraged to contact Dan McGlone for further assistance with these cases.
