Louisiana Dog Bite Law (2026)
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Quick answer
Louisiana is a hybrid-rule state. Modified strict liability under Louisiana Civil Code art. 2321: a dog owner is answerable for damage the dog caused that the owner could have prevented, when the injury was not caused solely by the injured person's provocation. Victims generally have 2 years as a general injury-law reference. The actual deadline can differ.
Comparative research source: Michigan State University Animal Legal & Historical Center, 2025 survey. Individual statutory citations control.
Who is liable for a dog bite in Louisiana?
Modified strict liability under Louisiana Civil Code art. 2321: a dog owner is answerable for damage the dog caused that the owner could have prevented, when the injury was not caused solely by the injured person's provocation.
Deadline to file: 2 years
Louisiana's general statute of limitations for injury claims is 2 years. Special rules can extend it for minors: common in dog bite cases, since children are the most frequent victims. See the full Louisiana statute of limitations guide.
How fault rules affect your claim
Modified comparative negligence (51% bar) for accidents on or after January 1, 2026: La. Civ. Code art. 2323, as amended, bars recovery when your share of fault is 51% or more. Accidents before that date are still governed by Louisiana's former pure comparative fault rule, under which any share of fault only reduced the award.
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Bitten in Louisiana? Homeowner's insurance usually pays these claims: find out what yours may be worth.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Louisiana a strict liability state for dog bites?
Modified strict liability under Louisiana Civil Code art. 2321: a dog owner is answerable for damage the dog caused that the owner could have prevented, when the injury was not caused solely by the injured person's provocation.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Louisiana?
Generally 2 years from the date of the bite, with possible extensions for minors. Missing the deadline usually bars the claim entirely.
Who actually pays the settlement?
In most cases the dog owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance, not the owner personally. That's why claims between neighbors or family members are common.
General legal information, not legal advice. Claimelo is not a law firm. Laws and deadlines depend on your circumstances and may change. Consult a licensed attorney about your situation.