-
Dogs Vs. Postman — More Than Just a Cliche
Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night keeps the mailman from his or her appointed rounds. What does? The family dog. Whereas mail carriers are frequently depicted as courageous and unstoppable couriers, they are often also portrayed as the favorite target of the family dog. But is this just a funny meme or cliche? It seems as if there is some basis in fact.
The United States Postal Service has embarked on a weeklong campaign to highlight the problem of dog attacks. They reported that over 5,800 USPS workers were the subject of dog attacks last year alone. Dogs that exhibit aggressive behavior pose a significant risk not only to postal workers but also to the public.
What Are the Laws Concerning Dog Bites in Nevada?
Although Las Vegas didn’t represent some of the highest incidents of dog bites in the United States — those went to Chicago and Las Angeles — dog bites are still a serious problem in Nevada. Even though we don’t have statewide statutes concerning dog bites, those who have been bitten by a dog that has displayed previous aggressive behavior may have the right to hold an owner civilly liable.
In Nevada, unlike many other states, a dog owner is not responsible to the victim of a bite unless that dog is considered dangerous or vicious.
But in Las Vegas, Henderson, or unincorporated Clark County, a dog is immediately regarded as dangerous or vicious if it has bitten someone one time. This is considered the “one bite” rule and determines the owner’s liability if that dog bites anyone again. It’s important to note, however, that different municipalities will have their own regulations concerning dog bites in Nevada.
What is Considered a Dangerous Dog in Nevada?
Some states have designated particular breeds as “dangerous” for purposes of civil liability laws. Nevada has not done that, but state law does recognize a dog that has bitten someone twice in an 18-month time period, bitten someone without being provoked by pain or torment, or one that has bitten someone while being off-leash as a “dangerous” dog.
While it is not against the law to keep a dog that has been considered dangerous in Las Vegas or Clark County, the owner needs to comply with strict requirements. Failure to do so is punishable by law, and the owner can be found negligent and liable if the animal bites someone.
Dog Bite Awareness Week
In the meantime, the United States Postal Service wants everyone to know that aggressive dogs are a real issue to letter carriers and the public alike, not just a silly cliche. You can find out more about dog bite awareness at https://about.usps.com/what/corporate-social-responsibility/activities/dog-bite-awareness.htm.
Getting Legal Assistance After a Dog Bite in Las Vegas
If you have been bitten by a dog in Las Vegas or the surrounding areas, you may be able to hold the owner liable for your injuries.
Contact our team of Las Vegas personal injury attorneys to see how we can help.
Associations
Awards
Reviews
Office Location
LV Personal Injury Lawyers
400 S. 7th St #450
Las Vegas, NV 89101