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Understanding Wisconsin Dog Bite Laws: What Every Family Should Know
Common Injuries and Why Immediate Medical Care Matters
Dog bites can range from minor punctures to serious wounds. The most common injuries occur on the legs, hands, and face—with the latter two being especially concerning due to infection risks and the delicate nerves and muscles involved. Benson stresses that even seemingly minor bites need professional medical attention. Dog mouths harbor bacteria, and untreated infections often cause the most long-term damage.
Beyond seeking medical help, Benson emphasizes the importance of calling law enforcement right away. This ensures the dog’s vaccination records are checked and that proper quarantine procedures are followed if necessary. In Wisconsin, the sheriff’s department oversees that process to protect public health and prevent future incidents.
Understanding Wisconsin’s Strict Liability Law
Wisconsin has some of the strongest dog bite laws in the nation, and Benson says that’s by design. The state follows a strict liability statute, which means a dog owner is automatically responsible if their dog injures someone—regardless of negligence. The injured person doesn’t have to prove that the owner knew the dog was dangerous. This approach encourages responsible pet ownership and ensures victims aren’t left to prove what the owner knew or didn’t know about their pet’s behavior.
Additionally, double damages may apply if the dog has previously bitten someone. That’s why Benson always advises victims to file a report—so others are aware of potentially dangerous dogs in their communities.
Insurance Coverage and Common Misconceptions
In most cases, homeowners insurance covers dog bite incidents. While many people assume a homeowners policy only applies to property damage, Benson explains that it actually protects against personal liability—no matter where the incident occurs, even on hiking trails.
When clients worry about filing a claim against a friend or neighbor, Benson reminds them that insurance exists for this reason. Victims aren’t taking money directly from anyone’s pocket; they’re using a policy designed to handle such situations. This perspective often helps both sides approach the case more calmly and cooperatively.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
Benson outlines several key steps that victims should take after a dog bite:
- Call the police or sheriff’s department immediately.
- Seek medical attention to prevent infection.
- Take photos of the wound as it heals—these images are valuable evidence, especially since cases can take years to resolve.
- Avoid confrontation with the dog owner. Emotions run high, and Benson warns that arguments sometimes lead to re-attacks.
He advises clients to move to safety, let law enforcement handle the situation, and allow the attorney to take care of the legal follow-up.
Special Considerations for Children
When the victim is a minor, Wisconsin law provides extra protection. The statute of limitations doesn’t begin until the child turns 18, and any settlement must be approved by a judge to ensure the funds are managed properly.
Because children are smaller, their facial injuries are often more severe, and since they’re still growing, even minor wounds can lead to long-term complications. Benson also points out that curiosity often puts children at risk—many simply don’t know how to safely approach unfamiliar dogs.
When a Dog Injures Another Dog
While Wisconsin law offers strong protections for people, the same isn’t true for pets. When one dog injures another, the law treats the injured pet as property, limiting recovery to veterinary expenses only. However, Benson often represents people who were injured while trying to protect their pets—such as being bitten or knocked down—and those cases can qualify under the strict liability statute.
The Legal Process After a Dog Bite
When someone contacts Benson’s firm, the first priority is confirming that the victim received proper medical treatment and that the incident has been reported. From there, Benson’s team ensures that medical bills are properly submitted and that insurance claims are opened promptly.
Most dog bite cases are resolved amicably, but disputes can arise when dog owners refuse to share their insurance details. In those cases, Benson’s firm steps in to file suit and compel disclosure. He reminds dog owners that this is why they have insurance—to handle accidents responsibly without personal financial loss.
Final Thoughts
Dog bite cases can be emotional for everyone involved, but Wisconsin law is clear: owners are responsible for the actions of their pets. Prompt reporting, proper medical care, and the guidance of an experienced attorney can make all the difference in protecting both victims and communities.
Learn more about
Paul Benson and how his firm helps Wisconsin families recover after serious injuries at
paulbensonlawfirm.com.
