Statutes of Limitations for Dog Bite Cases

Statutes of limitations restrict the time period that a person can file a lawsuit for their dog bite case. These statutes not only vary by state, but they also vary by cause of action. It is important that you contact an experienced attorney who can provide you specific time lines regarding your dog bite case. Not preserving your rights within your state’s specified statute of limitation will cause your dog bite claim to be barred from recovery, forever.

Special Rules for Minors: 

Because dog bites are often associated with children, it is very important to understand the laws associated with Minors.

Except in cases of wrongful death, an "unemancipated minor" must file suit within two years of his or her 18th birthday. An "unemancipated minor" is a person under 18 who is not totally self-supporting. In cases where the minor is emancipated, or totally self-supporting, at the time of the injury, he or she must file suit within two years of the date when the injury occurred.