Delaware Dog Bite Laws

Delaware Dog Bite Laws

What Types of Injuries are Commonly Caused by Dog Bites?

Dog bites are a common form of personal injury. The most common victim is a child under twelve, though anyone can get bitten. And while there are a few breeds of dogs that are notorious for the frequency or severity of their bite, any dog can bite.

The most common injuries received from dog bites include:

  • Face injuries
  • Eye injuries
  • Puncture wounds
  • Scarring
  • Abrasions/superficial injuries

Rabies are common in many foreign countries; however, the biggest concern is damage from the bite itself, followed by infection, nerve and muscle damage, and broken bones in places like Delaware.

Who is Liable in a Dog Bite Accident? 

The dog bite laws in Delaware specify that the owner is strictly liable unless the victim’s actions were the cause of the bite.

For example, if you are legally on someone’s property, and their dog runs up and bites you, they are liable. If you have trespassed and the dog attacks you, then that person is not accountable.

Some areas have laws that let the first bite slide, but not in Delaware. So the dog’s history of biting will not influence any decision made in court.


Are you suffering from a dog bite injury? Call Bifferato Gentilloti LLC today at (302) 429-1900 or contact us online to start your defense! 


When am I Responsible For a Dog Bite?

There are a few circumstances where you may be considered responsible for a dog bite. These include committing or attempting to commit a crime like trespassing or assault. If you were abusing, tormenting, or even teasing the dog, you would also not be able to blame the dog owner.

What Should I Do if a Dog Bites Me

Take these steps after a bite:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention – You can’t tell just by looking at a bite how serious it is. Dog’s saliva contains bacteria that can cause an infection even if it looks like a little bit of broken skin. Proper medical attention will help ensure that lasting damage is minimal and the wound gets cleaned properly. If you haven’t had a tetanus shot in over five years, you may need a booster.

  • You are more likely to develop an infection if you are immunosuppressed, especially if you have had a mastectomy or have asplenia or cirrhosis.

Collect Details – Try to find out what you can. Start with contact details from the owner and then ask about vaccinations. Also, note whether the dog was restrained or not, where it attacked, etc.

Take Photos of Your Injuries 

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Do Dog Bites Have to Be Reported in Delaware?

Yes, all dog bites must be reported to the Delaware Division of Public Health. This can serve as evidence for a future date and is also for the benefit of public safety.

Does a Dog Get Put Down if it Bites Someone? 

Some people may hesitate to file a claim because they don’t want the dog to be put down, but that is not a very common scenario. After you report the bite, there will be an investigation by the Delaware Division of Public Health to evaluate whether or not the dog is dangerous to the public. The owner will usually work with the county Dog Control Panel to develop solutions for reducing potential harm to others.

Dog Breeds

Since 2017, it has been illegal to outlaw or restricts any dog breed in Delaware. The dog’s breed will not automatically cause the dog to be deemed dangerous.

Contact Our Injury Lawyer Today 

After getting medical attention, gathering information surrounding the incident, taking photos, and reporting your bite, you should contact a personal injury lawyer in Delaware.

Contact Bifferato Gentilotti, LLC today to schedule a consultation!

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