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Originally Posted by cerulean  allessadry, you might want to look a little further, regarding the law's supposed protections from trespassers. There is another thread right now under "general info" "neighbor ripping down sign...." which expresses that many times the trespasser DOES have rights to sue, and can win.
Thank you for the link you posted, I found it very interesting, but it does offer many warnings along the lines of:
"Common law rule. If the state follows the common law rule - which imposes liability on a dog owner who knew a dog was dangerous - technically, the fact that the injured person was trespassing doesn't matter. So if the common law rule were applied strictly, if you know your dog is dangerous, and it bites a burglar who breaks into your house, you're liable."
"Negligence. The states don't agree on whether or not an injured trespasser who sues a dog owner for negligence (unreasonable carelessness) can win.
In some states, an injured trespasser can sue and win if the dog owner acted unreasonably under the circumstances."
Personally, we also live at the end of a gravel road on a few acres, no street lights, rural farm area, rather isolated.... and I am often working at home by myself.
My biggest fear is that a ill-intentioned person will shoot the dog if it barks. This happens alot. I would just call the police and try to protect my pup. |
Thanks for posting. I am aware of the liability issues on a dog whose owner knows it is dangerous. This is why I put the sign "Rottweilers on Patrol", rather than "Beware of dog". Many people are not aware of the fact that putting beware of dog signs is basically admitting your dogs are vicious. I also made sure my insurance would take care of possible bites. I know my puppies are the sweetest things on earth, but you never know when they grow up. Really, no dog can be guaranteed to be free from biting.
I am aware of those cases where people did sue and won and of course I am very, upset with how the law works sometimes. I am also upset of how insurance companies blacklist Rottweilers and I am trying to fight over it by writing articles and writing to insurance companies. However, I am trying my best to cover my a*** if some unfortunate event should happen.
You make a good point over the possibiity of somebody trying to shoot the dog. Even if dark and a bit far away a sharp shooter could have done a tragedy. Perhaps I should find a better way to deter possible intruders next time. I could have put my ADT alarm on and set it off for a few seconds. Good advice. Thank you.