Legally Reviewed by William Pemberton on September 22, 2026
If you’ve suffered a dog bite and you’re unsure what to do next, you’re in the right place. We’re here to provide answers and help you navigate the process. The first thing you need to do after a dog bite is to seek medical attention immediately. Dogs can carry diseases that humans do not, and your exposure to them can pose serious health risks.
Dogs can be our best friends, but they can also become unpredictable under specific circumstances. The behavior of individual dogs can be influenced by various factors, such as breed and training, which can shape their temperament.
Understanding Wisconsin Dog Bite Laws
In Wisconsin, dog bite laws are primarily covered under Wisconsin Statute 174.02, which holds dog owners liable for damages caused by their dogs. Here are the key details:
- Strict Liability for Injuries: Dog owners are liable if their dog causes injury to a person, domestic animal, or property, regardless of the dog’s past behavior. This means that even if the dog had no history of aggression, the owner is still responsible.
- Double Damages for Repeat Incidents: If the dog has previously bitten someone or caused injury, and the owner was aware of the prior incident, the law allows the injured party to seek double damages.
- Provocation Defense: An owner may not be liable if it can be proven that the dog was provoked or that the person injured was trespassing.
- Penalties: In addition to civil liability, Wisconsin law allows for local authorities to impose penalties, including fines, on owners whose dogs injure others.
This statute is designed to protect victims while holding dog owners accountable for their pet’s behavior.
Should I Proceed with a Dog Bite Lawyer?
If you’re unfamiliar with the legal world, it can be challenging to decide whether to seek legal assistance for a dog bite. We’re here to shed some light on this issue.
- The timing of the incident is crucial. Wisconsin, for instance, has a three-year statute of limitations for dog bite cases. The sooner you take action, the better. A fresh recollection of events can make your case stronger.
- Consider the severity of your injuries. If they are minor and don’t require significant medical attention, a legal case may not be worth the hassle. If, however, the dog bite resulted in substantial injuries, medical bills, and loss of wages, a personal injury claim may be justified.
If you’re uncertain about pursuing a case, we welcome you to reach out to Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm. We offer free consultations. It’s always better to have clarity than to live with doubt.
How to Approach a Dog Bite Incident
Safety First
Staying calm and composed after a dog bite is crucial. Rapid movements can further agitate the dog and increase the likelihood of additional harm. If possible, create a barrier between you and the dog using an object like a bag or a jacket. Avoid direct eye contact, which the dog might perceive as a threat. Instead, keep your body turned to the side and slowly retreat until you are at a safe distance. Once safe, immediately seek medical attention.
What to Do at the Scene
Once you’ve put some distance between yourself and the dog, contact emergency services and notify the police, especially if the injury is severe. Reporting the incident can prevent the dog from causing future harm. As you wait for help to arrive, try to gather information about the dog and its owner, including their contact details and the dog’s vaccination history.
Documenting the Dog Bite
Take pictures of your injuries and the location where the incident occurred. Prompt recording of the event can provide valuable evidence later on. If you haven’t been able to take pictures yet, don’t worry – pictures taken later can still serve as evidence.
Dealing with Uncooperative Owners
If the dog’s owner isn’t cooperative, keep a detailed record of your interactions with them and with the authorities and medical professionals you’ve contacted. This information could be highly valuable in any subsequent legal proceedings.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites. This means you generally have three years from the date of the bite to file a lawsuit. Waiting too long can result in losing your right to seek compensation, so it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after the incident.
Can a dog owner be held liable even if the dog had no prior history of aggression?
Yes. Wisconsin follows a strict liability standard for dog bites under Statute 174.02. Dog owners can be held liable for injuries their dog causes regardless of whether the dog had any prior history of aggressive behavior. The lack of a prior incident is not a defense under Wisconsin law.
What compensation can I recover after a dog bite in Wisconsin?
Victims of dog bites in Wisconsin may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. If the owner knew about the dog’s prior aggressive behavior, Wisconsin law may allow you to seek double damages. The specific amount depends on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the incident.
What should I do immediately after being bitten by a dog?
After a dog bite, seek medical attention right away, even if the injury seems minor. Report the incident to local authorities and obtain the dog owner’s contact information and vaccination records. Photograph your injuries and the location where the bite occurred. Avoid discussing fault at the scene, and contact a Wisconsin dog bite attorney before speaking with any insurance representatives.
Dog Bite Lawyers in Madison
We understand that dog bite injuries can be physically and emotionally taxing, and they can cause serious financial strain. Our experienced Wisconsin dog bite lawyers are on hand to gather crucial evidence, determine liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Get in touch with us at (608) 448-6242 and find out how we can support you through this challenging time.
ABOUT THE ATTORNEY
William Pemberton
Personal Injury Attorney, Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm
William Pemberton is the founding attorney of Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm, representing injured Wisconsinites across Madison, Eau Claire, Baraboo, Fitchburg, and Sun Prairie. He handles car accidents, motorcycle accidents, dog bites, brain injuries, and wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis.
