West Virginia Dog Bite Laws: When Is the Owner Liable?

Injured West Virginians face enough stress without legal confusion, so here is a clear explanation.

The Running-at-Large Rule

Under W. Va. Code § 19-20-13, the owner of a dog that is permitted to run at large can be held strictly liable for the damage the dog causes. Strict liability means you generally do not have to prove the owner was careless — only that the dog was running at large and caused your injury.

Negligence in Other Situations

When a dog is not running at large, West Virginia owners can still be liable under ordinary negligence principles — for example, failing to restrain a dog known to be aggressive, violating a local leash ordinance, or ignoring clear warning signs of danger.

What Dog Bite Damages Cover

Dog attack victims can pursue compensation for emergency and reconstructive medical care, scarring and disfigurement, lost wages, and the emotional trauma that often follows an attack — which can be severe, especially for children.

Act Within Two Years

Dog bite claims follow the standard two-year personal injury deadline under W. Va. Code § 55-2-12. Reporting the bite to local animal control also creates an official record that can strengthen your claim.