Attacked by a Dog?
We Hold Owners Responsible.
Dog bites are not "accidents"—they are the result of negligent ownership. We help victims in Nampa secure compensation for reconstructive surgery and psychological trauma.
Idaho Dog Bite Laws
Idaho law protects victims of vicious animals. Liability often depends on the owner's knowledge of the dog's aggression. We investigate:
- ✓ Prior Attacks ("One Bite Rule")
- ✓ Violation of Leash Laws
- ✓ Trespassing Defenses
- ✓ Homeowners Insurance Coverage
Recovering from a Traumatic Animal Attack
A dog attack is a terrifying event that happens in seconds but leaves scars that last a lifetime. In Nampa and Caldwell, we frequently see cases involving pit bulls, rottweilers, and other powerful breeds capable of inflicting massive tissue damage.
At Nampa Injury Attorney, we treat dog bite cases with the seriousness they deserve. We know that the physical wounds are only half the battle. Many of our clients—especially children—suffer from severe Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and a lifelong fear of animals. We fight to ensure your settlement covers both the plastic surgery needed to repair the skin and the therapy needed to heal the mind.
Proving Liability: Negligence vs. Scienter
Idaho operates under a mix of negligence and strict liability principles. There are generally two ways we win these cases:
1. Negligence Per Se (Leash Laws)
Nampa and Canyon County have strict leash laws. If a dog was running at large in violation of a local ordinance and attacked you, the owner is often automatically considered negligent.
2. Knowledge of Viciousness ("Scienter")
If the owner knew (or should have known) the dog had "dangerous propensities"—such as a history of biting or snapping—they are strictly liable for your damages, regardless of how careful they were attempting to be.
Severe Injuries We Litigate
Dog bites often result in complex medical issues that require specialists to treat:
- Nerve Damage & Loss of Sensation
- Severe Infection (Pasteurella)
- Keloid Scarring
- Fractured Bones (Crush Injuries)
Children are the Most Common Victims
Tragically, children are the most frequent victims of dog bites, and because of their height, injuries often occur to the face, neck, and scalp. We work with pediatric plastic surgeons to estimate the cost of future surgeries that must be performed as the child grows.
Immediate Steps to Take
Preserve your claim by acting fast:
- Identify the dog and owner immediately.
- Report the attack to Nampa Animal Control.
- Take photos of the wounds before bandaging.
- Verify the dog's rabies vaccination status.
- Do not speak to the owner's insurance adjuster.
Related Practice Areas
Who Pays for Your Injuries?
In most cases, we file a claim against the dog owner's Homeowners or Renters Insurance policy.
Medical Bills
Coverage for ER visits, rabies shots, antibiotics, and surgical reconstruction of torn tissue.
Scarring
Compensation for permanent disfigurement, which can affect self-esteem and quality of life.
Psychological Care
Funding for therapy to treat PTSD, anxiety, and fear of dogs (cynophobia).
Dog Bite FAQs
Does Idaho have a "One Bite Rule"?
Idaho generally follows the "One Bite Rule," meaning an owner might not be liable for the first time their dog bites someone unless they were negligent (e.g., violating a leash law). However, if the dog has bitten before, the owner is strictly liable.
What if the owner is a friend or family member?
This is common. Remember, you are not suing your friend personally; you are filing a claim against their insurance company. That is what insurance is for. We handle these cases diplomatically to preserve relationships while securing necessary funds.
What if the dog owner rents their home?
If the tenant has Renters Insurance, it may cover dog bites. In some cases, if the landlord knew the dog was dangerous and allowed it on the property anyway, we may also have a claim against the landlord.
Get the Justice You Deserve
Don't let a negligent dog owner ruin your life. We fight for maximum compensation.