WV · Mixed
West Virginia dog bite law
West Virginia’s statute is an at-large statute. A bite by a confined dog is usually a negligence problem.
- Liability
- Strict when the dog is at large
- Statute
- W. Va. Code § 19-20-13
- Deadline to file
- 2 years · W. Va. Code § 55-2-12
- Bites only?
- Injuries more broadly
Two years. “At large” is a fact: was the dog off the owner’s control?
Exceptions insurers will mention
Applies to owners and keepers if the dog was at large.
Compare the national split in strict liability vs one-bite, and confirm your clock on statute of limitations.
Similar liability rules
This page is general information, not legal advice, and is not a substitute for a lawyer licensed in your state. Statutes change. Confirm the current rule and your deadline with counsel before you rely on a date.