Bradshaw & Bryant

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Minnesota Pet Injury Lawyer

Injured by someone else’s dog or pet in Minnesota? Bradshaw & Bryant helps victims recover compensation for bites, attacks, and pet-related injuries.

Pets are a big part of life for many families. However, keeping animals in the home can lead to dangers. Pet owners who neglect to properly restrain their animals can put others at risk, unfairly leading to serious injuries and worse. Children are often victims of pet attacks, and they may be susceptible to more serious injuries. For those injured by someone else’s pet, there might be compensation available under Minnesota law.

Bradshaw & Bryant fights for Minnesotans injured by negligent pet owners. If you or a loved one suffered severe harm, reach out to our Minnesota pet injury lawyers today to learn more about your legal options for pursuing compensation.

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Common pet-related injuries in Minnesota

Pet-related injuries may happen more often than you realize. After all, approximately 54% of Minnesota households own a pet, and just over one-third own a dog. Dogs, cats, and other pets are capable of causing injuries. Some of the more common types of pet-related injuries in Minnesota include:

  • Dog bites and maulings: Dog bites and maulings can lead to severe puncture wounds, torn skin, and a severe risk of infection. A few of the breeds of dogs known to bite include pit bulls, Chihuahas, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, and Boxers.
  • Cat bites and scratches: People often underestimate the risks associated with cat scratches and bites. These can lead to severe infections, including cellulitis or sepsis, which may require hospitalization.
  • Knockdowns/falls caused by large or aggressive pets: Fall injuries can be seriously dangerous, especially for the elderly. Unruly, aggressive animals may trip or jump on someone, causing severe harm.
  • Injuries from being chased or lunged at: Even if the animal doesn’t directly injure the person with its teeth or claws, being chased can result in injuries from falling while trying to escape an attack.
  • Secondary injuries: Falling because of an attack can lead to broken bones or head injuries.
  • Psychological trauma: Being attacked by a dog is especially traumatic for children and may lead to PTSD or anxiety around animals.

All of these injuries may have catastrophic and life-changing effects for victims. Pursuing compensation is one way to shift some of the burden onto the person or persons who caused the injuries.

What does Minnesota law say about dog bites and animal attacks?

States have different approaches to dog bites and animal attacks. Some, including Minnesota, have versions of strict liability that protect those who suffer injuries. Under Minnesota Statute § 347.22, owners are liable if their dog (or pet) attacks or injures someone who is lawfully in a public or private place, even without prior aggression.

Essentially, the law means that there is no requirement to prove negligence or that the dog has bitten before in order to recover compensation for resulting injuries. The policy does not only apply to bites. It will also cover anyone who is hurt because of knockdowns and other injuries caused “without provocation.” Other animals, such as cats and exotic pets, may be covered under general negligence or premises liability laws. Contact a Minnesota pet injury lawyer to determine the proper legal grounds for your case.

Who can be held responsible for a pet injury?

Pet owners, including family members, friends, or neighbors, may be liable if their pet causes you injuries. Property owners and landlords, in some cases, may share liability if they knew of a dangerous animal and failed to take steps to prevent injuries. Dog walkers, pet sitters, or kennels could be liable as well. For example, if a dog walker is walking an animal and lets it off its leash, they could share liability. Event organizers are another possible responsible party if the animal was present at a special event.

What to do if someone else’s pet injures you

The very first thing to do is seek medical attention. It’s essential to seek treatment—even small bites can become infected and lead to severe medical complications.

  • Report the incident: Contact animal control or the local police to report the attack or injury and make sure there is a record.
  • Get the pet owner’s contact information: If you are injured by someone else’s pet, and you don’t know the person, get their name and contact information right away.
  • Take photos of your injuries, the animal, and the location: You can often get the best images right after the attack, before the scene is cleared, weather changes, or other factors change the conditions.
  • Gather witness names and contact information: Witnesses to the attack may be critical in building your case. Get their information right away so that you don’t lose the ability to get in touch with them.
  • Do not discuss fault or accept money from the owner: If the owner tries to resolve things quickly with an offer, do not accept. You need to speak to an attorney about your options before you agree to anything.
  • Call Bradshaw & Bryant: We are prepared to start investigating your claim and can advise you on what to do next.

Can I still sue if the pet owner is a friend or family member?

Yes. In most cases, you can file a claim, and the person’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance will cover the losses. While these types of cases may be awkward, at least the compensation will not often come out of their personal pocket. Considering that the injuries might lead to significant financial losses, you might need to file a claim to avoid hardship. If you have questions about filing a claim against someone you know, reach out. Our Minnesota pet injury lawyers often help clients navigate these sensitive cases with discretion and professionalism.

What compensation can you recover after a dog or pet attack?

Damages in a pet injury case can fall into a few different categories, including:

Economic damages

Economic damages are the real financial losses associated with a personal injury. For instance, they include your medical bills and lost wages. In the case of a serious animal attack, you might have financial losses that include:

  • Emergency room and hospital bills
  • Rabies shots or tetanus shots
  • Surgeries (scar revision or reconstructive procedures)
  • Lost wages
  • Therapy related to PTSD and trauma

Non-economic damages

Anyone who suffered a severe injury from an animal attack knows that the consequences aren’t limited to the financial losses. Minnesota courts recognize this as well. You can also recover for your:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress and trauma
  • Disfigurement or scarring
  • Loss of quality of life

In the rare but tragic case of a deadly animal attack, families might be able to file wrongful death claims.

Pet injuries involving children

Children are disproportionately injured in dog and other animal attacks, often, because they don’t appreciate the dangers. The injuries may also be more serious in these cases, including facial bites and disfigurement. Children often experience long-term emotional consequences as well. Our attorneys understand these aspects and provide compassionate legal support for families whose children are injured in these attacks. We work to protect the future of those children, including their long-term medical and psychological care.

How long do I have to file a pet injury lawsuit in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, you have six years to file a claim related to an animal attack. In some cases, exceptions may apply, such as when the injured person is a minor or when injuries are not immediately  .

It’s important to note that delaying action isn’t a good idea, even if you believe you have plenty of time. Evidence becomes harder to find, and witness memories start to fade soon after the attack.  It’s especially critical to seek prompt medical care to reduce the risk of diseases and infections.

Why you need a Minnesota dog bite & pet injury lawyer

Just because you think you have an open and closed case for damages doesn’t make it so. Insurance companies often work to minimize your damages or to blame you for your injuries. Some defenses they might use include blaming you for the attack, stating that you “provoked” the animal. They may also offer lowball settlements to try to resolve the case as quickly and cheaply as possible.

When you have a lawyer representing your interests, you can more effectively challenge these tactics. Our attorneys help by:

  • Investigating the animal’s history and the owner’s responsibility
  • Working with medical experts to document your injuries
  • Negotiating with the insurer for maximum compensation
  • Going to trial when the defendants refuse to offer a fair settlement

Why choose Bradshaw & Bryant for your pet injury case?

Bradshaw & Bryant have been representing injury victims in Minnesota for decades. Our team of dedicated litigators is ready to stand up to powerful insurance companies and others who may be fighting to prevent you from recovering the compensation you deserve. We have a track record that speaks for itself. And, you don’t pay us unless we are able to reach a successful resolution in your case.

Do you have a pet injury lawyer near me?

Yes. Bradshaw & Bryant proudly serves clients across Minnesota, including from our office at 1505 Division St, Waite Park, MN 56387. If you’re unable to meet us, we can often come to you, or arrange a video or phone consultation at your convenience.

Contact us for a free consultation today

A pet attack can result in devastating injuries. We’re ready to help you get the compensation and care you need to move forward with your life. Call us today, or complete our online form to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our dedicated Minnesota animal attack lawyers. At Bradshaw & Bryant, we’re here to fight for justice while you focus on healing.