Bit By A Dog in Wisconsin? What You Need To Know About Your Legal Rights

A dog bite can be a traumatic and life-altering experience. Whether it happens at a neighbor’s home, in a public park, or even during a casual walk, the injuries caused by a dog attack can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial consequences.

In Wisconsin, dog bite victims have important legal rights designed to hold dog owners accountable and ensure victims receive compensation for their injuries. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in La Crosse, Sparta, or surrounding communities, understanding these rights is essential.

At Bosshard Parke, we help personal injury victims navigate Wisconsin’s dog bite laws and secure the compensation they deserve. Here’s what you need to know.

Wisconsin’s Dog Bite Laws

Unlike some states that follow a “one-bite rule,” Wisconsin enforces a strict liability statute for dog owners.

Under Wisconsin Statutes Section 174.02, a dog owner is strictly liable for any damages caused by their dog biting or injuring a person, regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any aggressive tendencies. This means:

• The victim does not need to prove the dog had a history of biting.
• Negligence does not have to be established — simply owning the dog makes the owner responsible.

This strict liability applies whether the bite occurs on public or private property, as long as the victim was legally present at the location.

Double Damages For Repeat Offenses

Wisconsin law also imposes double damages if the dog had previously bitten someone and the owner was aware of the prior incident. This serves as a deterrent for negligent owners who fail to control dangerous animals.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can cause a range of injuries, including:

• Puncture wounds and lacerations
• Infections (such as rabies or tetanus)
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Nerve damage
• Emotional trauma, including anxiety and PTSD

In severe cases, reconstructive surgery or long-term medical care may be necessary, especially for vulnerable victims like children or the elderly.

What To Do After A Dog Bite In Wisconsin

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, taking the right steps immediately after the incident is critical to protect both your health and your legal rights.

1. Seek Medical Attention

Even seemingly minor bites can lead to serious infections. Prompt medical evaluation ensures your injuries are treated properly and creates important documentation for your personal injury claim.

2. Report The Incident

Report the dog bite to your local animal control agency or police department. In La Crosse and Sparta, local authorities will document the incident and verify the dog’s vaccination records. This official report is vital evidence for your case.

3. Document Everything

Gather as much information as possible, including:

• The dog owner’s name and contact information
• Photographs of your injuries, the dog, and the location of the attack
• Names and contact information of any witnesses
• Copies of medical bills and treatment records

4. Avoid Speaking With Insurance Adjusters Alone

The dog owner’s homeowners insurance may contact you. Be cautious — insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Avoid making statements or accepting settlement offers without first consulting a personal injury attorney.

5. Contact An Experienced Dog Bite Attorney

Navigating a personal injury claim after a dog bite involves legal complexities. An experienced attorney can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Potential Compensation For Dog Bite Victims

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (including future medical care)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Emotional distress
• Property damage (e.g., torn clothing or personal items)

In cases involving a previous bite by the same dog, you may also be eligible for double damages under Wisconsin law.

How Bosshard Parke Can Help

At Bosshard Parke, we have a deep understanding of Wisconsin’s dog bite laws and a long-standing commitment to protecting injury victims throughout La Crosse, Sparta, and the surrounding areas. We will work diligently to ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries.

Dog bite cases can be sensitive, especially when they involve friends, neighbors, or family members. Our attorneys handle these situations with professionalism and discretion, often securing compensation through insurance claims rather than personal lawsuits.

Contact Bosshard Parke today to request a consultation and learn how we can help you protect your rights after a dog bite injury.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized guidance, please consult an attorney at Bosshard Parke.