Is Rhode Island a strict liability state for dog bites?

Yes, for injuries outside the enclosure.

What if I was bitten on the owner's property?

You must prove the owner knew or should have known of the dog's vicious propensity.

What are double damages?

A second recovery against the same dog doubles the damages, and the court orders the dog killed.

Can a dog walker be liable?

The statute covers the owner or keeper.

Strict Liability Outside the Enclosure in Rhode Island

By the FigureMyTax Editorial Team · How we calculate

In Rhode Island, where the bite happens matters as much as what the dog did before.

Outside the enclosure

Under R.I. Gen. Laws 4-13-16, if a dog assaults, bites or otherwise injures a person while traveling the highway or out of the enclosure of the owner, the owner or keeper is liable for all damages. The victim does not have to prove negligence or a prior history of aggression.

Inside the enclosure

When the incident occurred on residential, farm or other non-commercial property owned, rented or leased by the owner, the plaintiff must show the owner knew or should have known of the dog's dangerous propensities. The Rhode Island Supreme Court has so held, in effect imposing the one-bite rule.

Double damages

If afterwards the same dog causes damage, the owner or keeper pays double the damage, and the court orders the dog killed. Section 4-13-16.1 doubles damages when a dog injures a blind or visually impaired person.

Owners and keepers

The statute reaches the keeper, such as a veterinarian, dog walker, sitter or kennel in control of a dog they do not own.

Deadline

Dog bite claims have three years.

Injured in Rhode Island?

A local personal injury attorney can review your claim — many offer a free consultation.

Talk to a Rhode Island attorney

Official sources

This is general information, not legal advice, and the state comparisons above are illustrative, not an exhaustive survey. Confirm how Rhode Island's rules apply to your specific case with a licensed Rhode Island attorney.