Vermont's 'One-Bite' Rule: How Dog Bite Liability Works

Vermont has no dog-bite statute. Instead, owners can be held liable under negligence and the 'one-bite' rule. Here is what victims need to prove.

No Strict-Liability Statute

Unlike many states, Vermont does not have a strict-liability dog bite statute. Liability instead rests on negligence principles developed through Vermont court decisions, sometimes called the 'one-bite' rule.

What Victims Must Show

To recover, an injured person generally must show that the owner knew, or reasonably should have known, that the dog had dangerous or vicious tendencies and failed to take adequate precautions. Evidence of prior aggression — earlier bites, lunging, growling, or warnings — can establish that knowledge. There need not have been a previous actual bite if other signs of danger existed.

Insurance and Recovery

Dog bite claims are often covered by the owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance. Victims may recover medical costs, lost income, and compensation for scarring and emotional distress. Vermont's three-year statute of limitations applies.

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Vermont attorney.