If someone trespasses on private property or ignores a “beware of dog” sign, can they still make a dog bite claim?
Yes. However, trespassers and people who ignore obvious warnings that a dangerous dog lurks may find the jurors and judges are less receptive to their claims. Further, if the trespasser (or anyone else) provoked the dog attack, they are not allowed to recover any damages for their injuries. In most situations, we would expect a jury to award nothing to someone who was committing an illegal act, and to be very critical of someone who did not belong on the property. Still, as always, this is a question that must be addressed on a case-by-case basis.
