Dog bites cause significant concern for many people, and Delaware has laws and regulations that can impact your rights and responsibilities if a dog bites you. One important factor to consider in dog bite cases is whether breed restrictions apply. While Delaware doesn’t have statewide breed-specific legislation (BSL), local laws may affect your case.
What is breed-specific legislation?
Breed-specific legislation refers to laws targeting specific dog breeds that are considered more dangerous or more likely to attack. These laws vary from state to state and even from town to town. In Delaware, no statewide law bans certain dog breeds. However, local municipalities may have laws or ordinances regulating specific breeds.
Local regulations in Delaware
Certain cities or counties in Delaware may have breed-specific laws that restrict ownership of certain breeds, such as pit bulls or Rottweilers, which some consider more aggressive. If a dog from one of these restricted breeds bites someone, the owner could face fines or the dog might get seized. Even without breed-specific laws, dog owners still bear responsibility for controlling their pets and ensuring they do not endanger others.
The importance of owner responsibility
Though breed-specific laws might influence certain situations, dog bite cases often focus on the dog’s behavior and the owner’s responsibility. In Delaware, dog owners must keep their pets under control, regardless of breed. If a dog bites someone, the owner can be held liable for the injuries caused, especially if the owner showed negligence in managing the dog’s behavior.
What you should know
If a dog bites you, breed-specific laws may or may not apply, depending on where the bite occurred. Understanding local regulations and the responsibilities of the dog’s owner will help you if you pursue compensation for your injuries. Always check local laws or consult an experienced professional if you’re unsure how breed restrictions might affect your case.
Delaware does not have a statewide breed ban, but local municipalities can enforce breed-specific legislation.