Here is a case right out of Alabama law.
Two apartment renters are living side by side. One has a dog. That dog bites the other tenant. So who gets sued? Well, it was someone who wasn’t even there.
Here is how the law works. Apartment owners are required to provide a safe environment for their tenants. If there is a problem, such as a dangerous railing on a balcony, they have to fix it or find themselves in court should something go wrong.
Here is the deal on the dog bite. The dog owner would normally be responsible for any damages the dog inflicts. However, if the dog owner doesn’t have the money to pay your medical bills, you can sue the landlord. BUT there is one big condition. Alabama courts have ruled that if the landlord did not have notice of the potentially dangerous condition BEFORE you were injured you will not be able to collect. The thought here is that a property owner can’t fix what he or she doesn’t know about.
Here is one thing the law provides to help the injured person. The notification does not have to be direct such as, “I am writing to tell you of a dangerous condition on your property” but can be as simple as telling him or her, “Someone is going to be hurt by that dog” or “I don’t feel safe going outside anymore since Rover arrived.”
Dog bite cases in Alabama have a lot of twists and turns. You would be wise to talk to an attorney who can try and get you the money and help you need.
If you are injured, you can talk to us at Eiland and Ritchie for free. There is no charge unless we collect for you. We want to help you and get you back on your feet.
Alabama personal injury lawyer