Best Dog Bite Attorneys in Providence

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Providence, Rhode Island?

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Providence is 401-272-3121.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Providence, Rhode Island?

  You may reach The Records Office at (401) 243-6416 to request a copy of police reports and pick it up between the hours of 8:15 a.m. and 2:45 p.m.

• Are dog owners in Providence obligated to pay the victim's damages if they did not know their dog could be dangerous?

  Yes, dog owners in Providence are obligated to pay for any damages brought on by a bite or assault, even if they were unaware that their dogs would be a hazard, in accordance with Rhode Island General Laws § 4-13-16. Rhode Island is a strict liability state, meaning that liability applies even if the bite or attack happened outside the owner's enclosure.

• What happens to the dog in a second offense for assault in Providence?

  According to a court order, the Providence dog that has caused trouble twice will be put down. In addition, if a dog determined to be vicious under section 4-13.1-11 kills or severely injures a person or domestic animal, the hearing panel may decide unanimously to euthanize the dog at the owner's expense.

• Can a petition be submitted on behalf of a dog that has been impounded in Providence due to an alleged violation?

  Yes. Owners or caregivers of dogs taken in Providence for an alleged offense may petition the district court with jurisdiction in the city or town to prevent their canines from being put to death. The petition must be filed within five days of the dog's impoundment.

• What sort of compensation would a dog owner in Providence be obligated to provide the dog's victim?

  Dog owners in Providence would be obligated to provide the victim the entire amount of damages in the first offense. These include economic and non-economic damages, such as medical expenses, inconvenience, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. For the second offense, owners are required to pay the victim twice as much in damages.

• What consequences would owners face if their dogs that have been declared vicious attacked another animal in Providence?

  If a dog has been deemed vicious and attacked another animal in Providence, its owner or keeper is required to pay a fine of $550, per Gen. Laws, 1956, 4-13.1-11. After a waiting time of five days, except Sundays and holidays (which shall not include any day or portion of a day on which the public pound is closed), the offending dog will also be taken by the dog officer. In addition, the dog's owner or caretaker must pay a $1,000 fine for each successive infraction.