Best Dog Bite Attorneys in Salt Lake City

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Salt Lake City, Utah?

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Salt Lake City, Utah is (801) 799-3000.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Salt Lake City, Utah?

  To get a copy of police reports for incidents related to your case in Salt Lake City, Utah, you may submit a GRAMA request or submit the form to the Service Desk in the lobby of Salt Lake City Police Department in person or by mail.

• Can police officers be held liable if their dogs bite while trying to find or arrest a suspect in Salt Lake City?

  Victims who were bitten by police dogs while being apprehended by the law in Salt Lake City are ineligible for compensation. If a dog bites a suspect during a pursuit, the dog is immune under Utah law. Plaintiffs may have an injury claim if police officers were negligent or violated their law enforcement agency's policies, such as when dogs bite a person while they are not on official police business.

• Can victims in Salt Lake City recover compensation for injuries even if the dog never actually bit them?

  Yes, Utah bite laws cover both injuries directly related to the attack and those caused by the dog's actions, such as when the animal knocks a person to the ground. Victims in Salt Lake City can file negligence claims if the owner failed to exercise reasonable care, resulting in the injuries.

• Can a person in charge of a dog during a bite incident in Salt Lake City be held liable?

  Yes, a person who is in control of, or should be in control of, a dog during a bite incident in Salt Lake City can be held liable. In Utah, the strict liability statute applies to both dog owners and third-party caretakers. Furthermore, there is no requirement to allege or prove that the owner or keeper was aware of the animal's mischievous or vicious behavior.

• What damages can victims recover after a dog bite injury in Salt Lake City?

  Dog bite victims in Salt Lake City can seek compensation for expenses such as surgical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and therapy. They can seek compensation for lost income if their injuries have limited their ability to work or perform the same job functions as before the incident. Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, may also be awarded to plaintiffs.

• Can a dog owner in Salt Lake City be criminally charged after a bite incident?

  Yes, after a bite incident, dog owners in Salt Lake City may face up to class B misdemeanor charges. They may be exempt from liability if their dogs injured or killed another animal that entered their private property without permission and the incident occurred while the dogs were reasonably secured within a fence or other enclosure.