Many people in Oregon own dogs, and while dogs can be a source of playful exercise and a loyal, trusted friend, they can also bite people and cause serious injuries. Oregon laws regarding dog attacks and dog bite cases have two important aspects: the dog’s history, and the presence or absence of insurance for the dog’s owner.
To recover damages for pain and suffering and scarring, the first thing a victim must do is to prove that the dog has bitten before, or that the dog has “dangerous propensities” (has the dog indicated that he would bite someone). While Oregon law does provide for medical expenses in dog bite cases, you will have to prove these points to recover more
The best routes to go about obtaining the dog’s history would be to the local police, a private investigator, or a lawyer. Trying to obtain this kind of information from the dog’s owner is usually futile.
The second factor to consider is whether the dog owner has insurance. If they own the home where the accident occurred, their Homeowner’s policy may provide a way to pay, but it’s a whole different story if you’re dealing with a renter. If they have Renter’s Insurance, you’re in luck – but many renters have no insurance. In that case, recovery may be very difficult.
If you, or someone you know, has been injured in a dog attack or been bitten by a dog, consider calling the attorneys at Dwyer Williams Cherkoss PC at 541-617-0555.