Dog Bite Liability in Maine: What Every Dog Owner (and Injury Victim) Should Know

Owning a dog can be one of life’s greatest joys, but it also comes with serious responsibilities. Dog owners in Maine have a duty not only to care for their pets, but also to ensure that others are safe around them. When a dog bite or dog-related injury occurs, the legal consequences can be significant.

At Okun Law PLLC, we help clients across Maine understand their rights and pursue compensation when injuries happen. Below, we’ll break down Maine’s dog bite laws, including relevant case law and statutes that determine when a dog owner may be held liable.

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Maine Dog Bite Laws: Case Law and Statutory Liability

The Maine Law Court recognizes three main legal theories for pursuing liability against dog owners:

1. Common Law Negligence

   • The injured person (plaintiff) must prove that the dog owner owed them a duty of care, that the owner breached that duty, and that the breach caused the injuries.

2. Common Law Strict Liability

   • Liability applies if:

     • The dog caused the injury,

     • The dog’s owner knew of the dog’s dangerous propensities, and

     • The injury resulted from that known dangerous behavior.

   • See Morgan v. Marquis, 2012 ME 106.

3. Statutory Negligence (7 M.R.S.A. § 3961)

   • On the owner’s property: The plaintiff must prove negligence.

   • Off the owner’s property: The dog owner is strictly liable for injuries caused by the dog, unless the injured person was at fault for the incident.

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Why Dog Bite Cases Are Complex

Dog bite claims are not always straightforward. Each case depends on the unique facts surrounding the incident, such as:

• Whether the dog had a history of aggression

• Where the attack occurred (on or off the owner’s property)

• Whether the injured person contributed to the incident

• The extent of the injuries sustained

Because multiple legal theories may apply, victims of dog bites in Maine should consult with an experienced dog bite injury attorney to evaluate their claim.

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What to Do If You’ve Been Bitten by a Dog in Maine

If you’ve been bitten or injured by a dog, take these steps right away:

1. Seek medical care immediately to treat your injuries and prevent infection.

2. Document the incident by taking photos of your injuries, the dog, and the location.

3. Report the bite to local animal control or law enforcement.

4. Contact a Maine dog bite lawyer to protect your legal rights and determine whether you may be entitled to compensation.

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Speak With a Maine Dog Bite Lawyer Today

Dog bite injuries can be serious, both physically and emotionally. Understanding Maine’s dog bite liability laws is the first step toward recovery, but having an advocate on your side makes all the difference.

At Okun Law PLLC, we represent clients across Maine who have been injured by dogs and other animals. We provide compassionate, personalized legal support and fight for the compensation you deserve.

👉 Contact Okun Law PLLC today for a free consultation with an experienced Maine personal injury attorney.