Nevada Law on Dog Bites

Many factors cause a dog to bite. A dog that feels threatened or endangered might attack, or one who has experienced neglect or physical abuse might also be inclined to bite. Sometimes dog biting can be breed-specific, such as with pit bulls and rottweilers. Like most other states, Nevada has laws in place to help if you or a family member is a victim of a dog bite.

  1. Liability

    • Currently in Nevada there is no liability statute for average dog bites. However, if you own a dog that harms someone, you can be held liable in court for physical and even emotional damages suffered by the victim. All the victim has to prove is that your negligence led to her injury. Claims for dog bites should be filed as soon as possible because there is a two-year statute of limitations.

    Dangerous Dog Law

    • In Nevada, there is a distinction between a "dangerous dog" and a "vicious dog." A dangerous dog is defined as one, that within an 18-month period, threatens bodily harm against a person or child without being provoked in any fashion. A dog can be seen as dangerous both on and off the owner's property.

    Vicious Dog Statute

    • A vicious dog is that who inflicts bodily harm on a person or child or kills him. A dog can be seen as vicious if in the past, an owner has been notified of its "dangerous" status. It is illegal for anyone to keep a vicious dog. If someone is found guilty of owning a dog that caused bodily harm or death, she can face not only a fine of up to $5,000 and the dog being destroyed, but also a prison term of one to four years.

    One-Bite Rule

    • Nevada is one of many states that follow the "one-bite rule." This rule means if you have knowledge that your dog has even tried to bite someone but was not successful, your dog can be labeled "dangerous." If in the future your dog is successful in biting and harming someone, you can be held liable in court.

    Legal Advice

    • If you are the victim of a dog bite, consult a lawyer as soon as possible. You should find one that has experience in dog bite cases because the laws can be complex.