Dog Bite Lawyers in Minnesota

Minnesota’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law

Understanding “Provocation” Under Minnesota Law

Owners often claim the victim “provoked” the dog to avoid paying damages. However, Minnesota law sets a high bar for that defense.

Provocation generally means the victim intentionally irritated, harmed, or frightened the dog in a way that would cause a normal animal to attack.

Simply walking near, petting, or startling a dog does not count as provocation.

Our attorneys investigate each case carefully – reviewing witness statements, photographs, and veterinary reports to disprove provocation claims and protect your right to full compensation.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks can cause severe physical and emotional damage.

Typical injuries include:

• Deep puncture wounds and lacerations
• Infection (including MRSA and rabies)
• Nerve, tendon, and muscle damage
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and fear of animals

When children are involved, injuries can affect growth, appearance, and confidence for years. TSR works with pediatric and trauma specialists to calculate both immediate and long-term impacts.

Compensation for Dog Bite Victims

Minnesota law allows recovery for both economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Medical expenses and future surgeries
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
• Permanent disfigurement or scarring
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs

Dog bite cases are often covered by homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, which means victims can usually recover compensation without personally suing a friend or neighbor. TSR handles all insurer contact and negotiations on your behalf.

Who Can Be Held Responsible

Liability most often falls on the dog’s legal owner, but other parties may share responsibility if they contributed to the attack, such as:

• Landlords or property managers who allowed a dangerous dog to remain on the premises
• Caretakers or dog-sitters who ignored prior aggression or safety warnings
• Parents or guardians of minors who own the dog

TSR investigates every potential source of recovery to ensure you’re not left paying for someone else’s negligence.

What to Do After a Dog Bite

1. Seek immediate medical attention – even small wounds can become infected.
2. Report the attack to animal control or law enforcement.
3. Document everything: take photos of your injuries, the dog, and the location.
4. Get contact information for the dog’s owner and any witnesses.
5. Avoid direct contact with insurers until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.

Prompt reporting also helps local authorities monitor potentially dangerous dogs to prevent future attacks.

Time Limits for Filing a Claim

In Minnesota, most dog bite claims must be filed within two years of the attack. Waiting too long can make it impossible to recover damages. TSR will ensure all deadlines are met and evidence preserved while you focus on healing.

Preventing Future Attacks

Dog bite prevention starts with responsible ownership. Common-sense steps can prevent serious harm:

• Always leash and control dogs in public
• Supervise dogs closely around children
• Secure yards and gates
• Train and socialize dogs early

When owners fail to take these precautions, legal action can both compensate victims and encourage safer behavior in the community.

Bitten or Attacked by a Dog? It’s TSR Time.

If you or your child was bitten or attacked by a dog, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. TSR Injury Law offers free consultations, day or night, and we only get paid if you do.

CALL 612-TSR-TIME (612) 877-8463