[vc_row content_width=”grid” triangle_shape=”no” css=”.vc_custom_1753600001{padding-top: 70px !important;}”][vc_column offset=”vc_col-lg-9 vc_col-md-12″][mkd_elements_holder][mkd_elements_holder_item background_color=”#282e3f” item_padding=”3% 16%” horizontal_aligment=”center” vertical_alignment=”bottom”][mkd_separator type=”with-icon” animate=”no” color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” width=”120″ top_margin=”20″ bottom_margin=”20″ custom_icon=”2012″][mkd_counter type=”zero” show_icon=”no” position=”center” font_weight=”900″ digit=”747686941″ font_size=”74″ digit_color=”#ffffff” currency=”$” title=”Recovered for Our Clients Since 1981″ title_color=”#ffffff” text=”Robert J. DeBry and Associates has fought for injured Utahns for over four decades. Our experience, results, and reputation make us a firm Utah dog bite victims turn to after a serious attack.” text_color=”#ffffff”][/mkd_elements_holder_item][/mkd_elements_holder][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_column_text]
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][mkd_blockquote text=”If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Utah, you do not have to carry the financial burden of someone else’s animal. Utah is a strict liability state, which means a dog owner can be held responsible for a bite even if the dog never showed aggression before and even if the owner knew nothing about it. Robert J. DeBry and Associates helps injured Utahns pursue fair compensation, with free consultations and no fee unless we win.” title_tag=”h3″ border_color=”#D71209″][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][vc_column_text]This page explains how Utah dog bite claims work: why Utah is a strict liability state, who can be held liable for an attack, the compensation you may recover, the steps to take immediately after a bite, what hiring a lawyer costs, and how our firm handles these cases from investigation through trial.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h3″ font_size=”18″ line_height=”24″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Three things to do right now” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”12px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Seek immediate medical attention. Even a wound that looks minor can carry a serious risk of infection and deeper tissue damage, and prompt care creates the records that support your claim.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Document everything and identify the owner. Photograph your injuries, the location, and the dog, and get the name, address, and homeowner’s or renter’s insurance information of the person responsible for the animal.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Do not give a statement to the insurance company before speaking with a dog bite attorney, because adjusters may use what you say to reduce or deny your claim.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][vc_column_text]Call Robert J. DeBry & Associates at 801-888-8888 for a free consultation. We handle dog bite cases on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][vc_single_image image=”30269″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][vc_row_inner css=”.vc_custom_1447678838422{padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h2″ font_size=”30″ line_height=”36″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”As Your Dog Bite Lawyers, We Have:” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”18px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Represented injured Utahns since 1981, over four decades of proven results” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”A support staff of over 50 legal professionals dedicated to personal injury cases” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”A free initial consultation to evaluate your dog bite claim” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”No fee unless we win your case” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Offices in Salt Lake City and Sandy, serving clients statewide” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h2″ font_size=”30″ line_height=”36″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”As Our Client, Your Rights to Compensation Are:” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”18px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Payment of medical bills” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Lost wages and earning capacity” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Pain and suffering” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Scarring and permanent disfigurement” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space height=”44px”][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h2″ font_size=”30″ line_height=”36″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Explore Utah Dog Bite Topics” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”18px”][vc_column_text]Dog bite claims raise questions that other injury claims do not. These pages go deeper on the issues Utah victims ask about most.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h3″ font_size=”18″ line_height=”24″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Utah Dog Bite Laws and Strict Liability” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”12px”][vc_column_text]Why Utah holds owners responsible even for a first-time bite, and the exceptions written into the statute.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_btn title=”Read more” style=”text” link=”url:/personal-injury/dog-bite-lawyer/utah-dog-bite-laws/|title:Read more|”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h3″ font_size=”18″ line_height=”24″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”What to Do After a Dog Bite” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”12px”][vc_column_text]The steps that protect your health and your claim in the hours and days after an attack.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_btn title=”Read more” style=”text” link=”url:/personal-injury/dog-bite-lawyer/what-to-do-after-dog-bite/|title:Read more|”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h3″ font_size=”18″ line_height=”24″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Cost of a Dog Bite Lawyer” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”12px”][vc_column_text]How the contingency fee works, and why there is no financial risk to pursue your claim.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_btn title=”Read more” style=”text” link=”url:/personal-injury/dog-bite-lawyer/cost-of-dog-bite-lawyer/|title:Read more|”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h3″ font_size=”18″ line_height=”24″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Service and Unique-Circumstance Dog Attacks” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”12px”][vc_column_text]Attacks involving service animals, police canines, and other less common situations under Utah law.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_btn title=”Read more” style=”text” link=”url:/personal-injury/dog-bite-lawyer/service-unique-circumstance-dog-attacks/|title:Read more|”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h3″ font_size=”18″ line_height=”24″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Dog Breeds Most Likely to Bite” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”12px”][vc_column_text]What the data says about bite risk by breed, and how breed comes up in a Utah claim.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_btn title=”Read more” style=”text” link=”url:/personal-injury/dog-bite-lawyer/dog-breeds-most-likely-to-bite/|title:Read more|”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h3″ font_size=”18″ line_height=”24″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Salt Lake City Dog Bite Lawyer” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”12px”][vc_column_text]Local representation for dog bite victims in Salt Lake City and Salt Lake County.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_btn title=”Read more” style=”text” link=”url:/personal-injury/dog-bite-lawyer/salt-lake-city-dog-bite-lawyer/|title:Read more|”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h3″ font_size=”18″ line_height=”24″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Provo and Utah County Dog Bite Lawyer” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”12px”][vc_column_text]Local representation for dog bite victims in Provo, Orem, and Utah County.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_btn title=”Read more” style=”text” link=”url:/personal-injury/dog-bite-lawyer/utah-county-provo-dog-bite-lawyer/|title:Read more|”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space height=”44px”][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h2″ font_size=”30″ line_height=”36″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Utah Is a Strict Liability State for Dog Bites” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”18px”][vc_column_text css=””]Under Utah Code section 18-1-1, anyone who owns or keeps a dog is strictly liable for injuries that dog causes to another person. This is a critical distinction that sets Utah apart in how it handles dog bite cases.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”16px”][vc_column_text]What strict liability means in practice is straightforward: you do not have to prove that the owner was negligent, that the dog was a dangerous dog, or that the animal had a history of aggression. The duty imposed on dog owners in Utah attaches simply because they own or control the animal. If a dog bite occurs and you are lawfully present, the owner or keeper is held liable for the resulting injuries.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”16px”][vc_column_text css=””]Some states follow what is known as the one bite rule, which requires a victim to show that the dog owner knew the dog had previously shown aggressive behavior or had bitten someone before. Utah does not follow the one bite rule. Dog owners can be held responsible for a first-time bite just as readily as a repeat incident.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”16px”][vc_column_text]There are limited exceptions written into the statute. For example, the law provides an exception for certified law enforcement canine handlers acting under agency policy, and for situations where a dog is reasonably secured within a fence or enclosure on private property and the injured person was trespassing in violation of Utah law.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”16px”][vc_column_text]In 2024, Utah passed SB 62, which amended section 18-1-1 to further clarify dog-related liability and codify a four-year statute of limitations for dog injury actions arising on or after May 1, 2024.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”44px”][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h2″ font_size=”30″ line_height=”36″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Who Can Be Held Liable for Your Dog Bite Injuries” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”18px”][vc_column_text]Identifying every potentially liable party is an important part of building a dog bite claim. Utah law extends responsibility beyond just the registered owner of the animal.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Dog owners bear primary responsibility under Utah Code section 18-1-1. If you are attacked, the registered owner is strictly liable for your injuries.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Keepers and handlers, meaning anyone who had custody or control of the dog at the time of the bite, can also be held responsible. This includes a family member, friend, dog walker, or pet sitter caring for the animal.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Landlords may bear liability in certain circumstances if they had knowledge of a dangerous dog on their property and failed to act or enforce property rules.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Parents of minor dog owners can be held liable when a child owns or keeps the dog that caused the injury.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Property owners may face responsibility if the attack happened on their premises and they exercised some control over the animal or had a duty to warn visitors.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][vc_column_text]Understanding who is liable matters because it affects where a personal injury claim is directed and which insurance company may be responsible for paying damages. Not all personal injury attorneys have experience with dog bite cases, and the question of liability often requires a careful investigation. Legal teams gather evidence including medical records and eyewitness reports to establish who was in control of the animal, whether a negligent owner or another responsible party contributed to the attack, and under what circumstances the attack occurred.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”44px”][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h2″ font_size=”30″ line_height=”36″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Compensation You Can Recover After a Dog Bite” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”18px”][vc_column_text]Dog bite victims may recover both economic and non-economic damages under Utah law. The severity of a dog bite injury can range from puncture wounds requiring basic care to serious injuries involving broken bones, nerve damage, permanent disfigurement, and deep emotional distress that affects victims for years after the attack.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”16px”][vc_column_text]Recoverable damages in a Utah dog bite claim generally include:[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Medical expenses, including emergency room visits, surgery, antibiotics, reconstructive surgery, rabies vaccinations, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment. One in five dog bites become infected, requiring care beyond the initial wound treatment.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Scarring and permanent disfigurement, with compensation for visible or permanent scars, particularly when they affect appearance or function.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Lost wages and earning capacity, both income lost during recovery and any long-term reduction in your ability to earn a living.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Pain and suffering, covering physical pain, mental anguish, and the lasting impact of the attack on your daily life.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Emotional trauma, which can be severe, particularly for children. Children make up about half of dog bite victims, and the psychological effects can persist long after physical wounds heal.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Property damage, such as torn clothing, damaged personal items, or other belongings destroyed during the attack.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][vc_column_text css=””]For attacks involving service animals, Utah Code section 78B-3-702 provides for specific damages including veterinary costs, replacement animal costs, and recovery-related expenses. You can read more about these and other less common situations on our service and unique-circumstance dog attacks page.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”16px”][vc_column_text]Building a dog bite claim may require medical specialists and experts to document the full extent of your injuries and project future care needs. Without thorough documentation, insurance companies may undervalue what you are owed.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][vc_single_image image=”30268″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h2″ font_size=”30″ line_height=”36″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”18px”][vc_column_text]The steps you take in the hours and days after a dog bite directly affect both your health and the strength of your legal claim.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Seek immediate medical attention. Even if the wound appears minor, dog bites carry a significant risk of infection and may involve deeper tissue damage that is not visible. Follow all treatment recommendations.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Document everything. Take clear, time-stamped photographs of your injuries, the location where the bite occurred, and the dog itself if it is safe to do so, along with torn clothing and any property damage.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Identify the dog owner or keeper. Get the name, address, phone number, and homeowner’s or renter’s insurance information of the person responsible, which is often the primary source of compensation.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Gather witness information. Collect names and contact details of anyone who saw the bite or the events leading up to it.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Report the incident. File a report with local animal control or the health department. This creates an official record and may trigger a quarantine of the animal.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Preserve all records. Keep every medical bill, receipt, prescription, and written communication related to your injury.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Do not give statements to the insurance company before consulting a dog bite attorney. Adjusters may try to minimize your claim or get you to say something that reduces your recovery.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][vc_column_text css=””]An initial consultation with a dog bite lawyer often includes discussing your medical treatment and evidence, so thorough documentation from the start strengthens your position. For a full walkthrough, see our guide on what to do after a dog bite.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”44px”][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h2″ font_size=”30″ line_height=”36″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”How Much a Dog Bite Lawyer Costs in Utah” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”18px”][vc_column_text css=””]Cost should never be a barrier to pursuing a dog bite claim. At Robert J. DeBry & Associates, we handle dog bite cases on a contingency fee basis. That means no upfront costs to hire a lawyer, and you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”16px”][vc_column_text]Here is how the arrangement works:[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Free case review. Your initial consultation costs nothing. We evaluate your claim, discuss the legal process, and help you understand your options.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”No fees during litigation. We advance case expenses such as medical record fees, filing costs, and expert witness fees throughout the process.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Payment only from recovery. Our legal fees come from the compensation we obtain on your behalf. If there is no recovery, you owe us nothing.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][vc_column_text]This structure means there is no financial risk to pursue your claim. Many dog bite claims settle without going to court, but when a fair settlement cannot be reached, our firm has the resources and willingness to take your case before a judge and jury. Insurance companies often offer better settlements when a lawyer has trial experience.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”44px”][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h2″ font_size=”30″ line_height=”36″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Why Choose Robert J. DeBry and Associates for Your Dog Bite Case” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”18px”][vc_column_text]Dog bite litigation is a specific area within personal injury law, and not every firm has deep experience with the statutes, insurance issues, and medical complexities these cases involve.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Focused knowledge of Utah dog bite law. We handle cases under Utah’s strict liability framework and understand the exceptions, defenses, and comparative negligence rules that affect every claim. Under Utah Code section 78B-5-818, a victim’s own fault, such as provocation, can reduce or eliminate recovery, and we work to counter those defenses with thorough preparation.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Experience with injury claims involving animal attacks. We know how to document liability, evaluate insurance issues, and build claims around the full impact of a serious injury.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Personalized support. We keep clients informed throughout the process so you always know where your case stands.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][mkd_icon_list_item icon_pack=”font_elegant” fe_icon=”icon_check” title_transform=”none” icon_size=”18″ icon_color=”#D71209″ title=”Willingness to go to trial. We pursue every opportunity to negotiate a fair settlement, but we prepare every case as if it will go to trial, and that preparation changes how seriously the insurer treats your claim.” title_size=”18″ title_color=”#6a6a6a”][vc_empty_space height=”26px”][vc_column_text css=””]With a personal injury team of over 50 legal professionals, our firm has the staff and resources to thoroughly investigate your case, handle complex medical documentation, and manage the litigation process from filing through discovery, mediation, and trial if necessary.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”44px”][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h2″ font_size=”30″ line_height=”36″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Serving Salt Lake City, Sandy, and All of Utah” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”18px”][vc_column_text css=””]Robert J. DeBry & Associates represents dog attack victims throughout Utah. With offices in Salt Lake City and Sandy, we provide legal representation to clients across the greater Salt Lake Valley, Sandy and the South Valley, Utah County including Provo and Orem, Davis County including Bountiful, Layton, and Farmington, Weber County including Ogden, and Washington County, Cache County, and every other Utah county.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”16px”][vc_column_text]No matter where in Utah your dog bite occurred, on public or private property, we can evaluate your case and provide statewide representation. We are also available for home or hospital visits if your injuries prevent you from traveling to our offices.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”44px”][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h2″ font_size=”30″ line_height=”36″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Frequently Asked Questions” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”18px”][vc_column_text el_class=”rjd-faq”]
No. Utah does not follow the one bite rule. Under Utah Code section 18-1-1, dog owners can be held liable even if the dog has no prior bites or history of aggression. Utah is a strict liability state, meaning liability attaches based on ownership or control of the dog, not on whether the owner knew the animal was dangerous.
For dog injury actions arising on or after May 1, 2024, Utah Code section 18-1-1 specifies a four-year period from the date of the incident to file a claim. Claims involving government entities may have additional notice requirements with shorter deadlines. Because missing these deadlines can result in losing your right to recover compensation entirely, it is important to act quickly and consult a dog bite attorney as soon as possible.
You may still have a valid dog bite claim. In most cases, the claim is handled through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy rather than as a personal dispute. Most homeowners policies in Utah include personal liability coverage that can respond to dog bite claims. Filing a claim does not necessarily mean suing a friend or family member personally, because the insurance company typically handles the payment.
Potentially, yes. Utah follows a comparative negligence framework under Utah Code section 78B-5-818. If you are found to be less than 50 percent at fault, your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are found to be 50 percent or more at fault, for example if you provoked the dog, you may recover nothing. An attorney can help evaluate whether comparative negligence applies to your situation.
No. Under Utah’s strict liability law, you do not need to prove that the dog was known to be vicious, that the owner knew the dog was aggressive, or that the animal had any prior history of biting or threatening behavior. You need only show that the dog caused your injury and that the defendant owned or kept the animal.
If the dog owner lacks homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, or the policy excludes coverage for the incident, you may still be able to pursue a personal injury claim directly against the owner. Standard liability limits on homeowner’s policies often range between $100,000 and $300,000, and some policies contain breed exclusions or prior-bite exclusions that limit coverage. If damages exceed policy limits, the owner may be personally responsible for the remaining amount. An experienced dog bite lawyer can assess all potential sources of recovery in your case.
[/vc_column_text][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”h2″ font_size=”30″ line_height=”36″ font_weight=”900″ content_custom_font=”Contact Our Utah Dog Bite Lawyers Today” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”18px”][vc_column_text]If you have been attacked by a dog in Utah, do not wait to explore your legal options. Evidence can deteriorate, memories fade, and statutory deadlines apply to every personal injury claim. The sooner you speak with a dog bite lawyer, the stronger your position will be. Robert J. DeBry & Associates offers a free consultation to every dog bite victim, and we will review the facts of your case, explain how Utah’s strict liability law applies, and outline the next steps, all at no cost to you.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][mkd_custom_font custom_font_tag=”p” font_size=”18″ line_height=”26″ font_weight=”700″ content_custom_font=”Call 801-888-8888 or request your free case review online today. No fee unless we win.” color=”#282e3f”][vc_empty_space height=”12px”][vc_column_text]This is general information, not legal advice. Contacting Robert J. DeBry & Associates or submitting a form does not create an attorney-client relationship.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][mkd_call_to_action full_width=”yes” content_in_grid=”no” type=”with-icon” icon_pack=”simple_line_icons” simple_line_icons=”icon-globe” show_border=”yes” show_button=”yes” button_main_color=”#D71209″ button_target=”_self” button_icon_pack=”font_elegant” button_fe_icon=”arrow_carrot-right” icon_size=”33″ icon_color=”#D71209″ background_color=”#f2f2f2″ button_text=”Free Case Evaluation” button_link=”/contact/” box_padding=”2%”]Bitten by a dog in Utah? Talk to a dog bite attorney today, free.[/mkd_call_to_action][vc_empty_space height=”44px”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-lg-3 vc_col-md-offset-3 vc_col-md-6 vc_col-sm-offset-3″ css=”.vc_custom_1448019881202{padding-right: 0px !important;padding-left: 0px !important;}”][mkd_elements_holder][mkd_elements_holder_item item_padding=”0px 15px” horizontal_aligment=”center”][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”page-sidebar”][/mkd_elements_holder_item][/mkd_elements_holder][vc_empty_space height=”44px”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
