What happens when you get bit by a dog when making a delivery? Depending on how exactly it happened, you may be able to sue for your injuries. Here are some of the factors that will determine whether you have a case. 

Unprovoked Attack

One important factor in determining whether a delivery worker can sue for a dog bite while making deliveries is whether the attack was unprovoked. If the delivery worker did not engage in any behavior that could be seen as a threat or instigation towards the dog, it strengthens their case for legal action.

Establishing an unprovoked attack places the responsibility solely on the dog owner to maintain control over their pet and prevent potential harm to others. This argument supports the delivery worker's position that they were carrying out their duties peacefully, and the dog's aggression was unwarranted.

Lawful Presence

Another significant factor is whether the delivery worker had a lawful right to be on the property where the incident occurred. If the worker was lawfully present, such as delivering packages to a customer's address or accessing a designated delivery area, it strengthens their position for pursuing legal action.

Being lawfully present establishes that the worker had a legitimate reason to be on the premises, and the property owner had a responsibility to maintain a safe environment.

Leash Laws and Restraint

Leash laws impose requirements on dog owners to keep their pets properly restrained and controlled in public areas. If the dog was unleashed or improperly restrained at the time of the bite, it strengthens the delivery worker's case for legal action.

This violation of leash laws demonstrates a failure on the part of the dog owner to exercise reasonable care and prevent potential harm to others. It places the responsibility for the dog's actions squarely on the owner, potentially increasing the worker's chances of obtaining compensation.

Negligence of Dog Owner or Property Owner

The negligence of the dog owner or property owner is a significant factor to consider in dog bite cases. If the owner knew or should have known about the dog's aggressive tendencies but failed to take appropriate measures to prevent an attack, it strengthens the delivery worker's case. 

Proving negligence often requires gathering evidence, such as witness statements or documentation of previous incidents or complaints regarding the dog's behavior. Establishing that the owner was negligent in their duty to control and prevent harm caused by their dog strengthens the worker's position and increases the likelihood of obtaining compensation for their injuries.

Reach out to local personal injury lawyers to learn more.