American law typically addresses animal attack cases through one of two doctrines—strict liability or the “one-bite” rule—depending on the state in which the incident occurred.

• Strict Liability: In jurisdictions with strict liability laws, an animal owner is automatically responsible for any harm caused by their animal, regardless of the owner’s prior knowledge of the animal’s aggressiveness. This doctrine is often applied to cases involving inherently dangerous or exotic animals.

• One-Bite Rule: This traditional rule allows an animal one incident of aggressive behavior before the owner can be held liable. It requires proof that the owner knew or should have known about the animal’s dangerous tendencies, which can be demonstrated through prior incidents of aggression.

Establishing Owner Liability: Liability in animal attack cases hinges on several factors, which may include the owner’s knowledge of the animal’s behavior and their adherence to local laws.

• Knowledge of Propensity for Aggression: Owners are more likely to be held liable if it can be demonstrated that they were aware of their animal’s aggressive nature. Evidence such as previous bites or attacks can be pivotal.

• Negligence: Owners may also face liability for negligence if they failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the animal from causing harm, such as ignoring leash laws or failing to secure their premises adequately.

Defenses in Animal Attack Litigation: Owners of animals accused of attacking may have several defenses at their disposal.

• Provocation: If the animal was provoked by the victim, the owner might not be held liable for the attack.

• Trespassing: Owners typically are not liable for attacks that occur when the victim was unlawfully on the owner’s property.

• Comparative Fault: Some states apply a comparative fault rule, which might reduce the compensation to the victim if they were partly at fault for the incident.

Compensations and Damages: Victims of animal attacks may seek damages for their injuries, which can include medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and, in some cases, punitive damages intended to punish egregiously negligent behavior.

Prevention and Compliance: It is crucial for animal owners to comply with local regulations to prevent attacks. This includes proper training, securing properties where animals are kept, and adhering to local animal control laws.