As a dog owner, you know that there's a certain level of liability you accept on behalf of your dog. This means that, in the event of a dog bite or attack, you could be held liable for the injuries caused by your dog. What many dog owners don't realize, however, is that this same level of liability can be enforced even if the dog bite occurs in your yard or in your home. Below is a general overview of the liability that dog owners may have in the event of a dog bite on their own property, even with the use of a "Beware of Dog" sign, and how you can lower your risks and prevent liability in the future.

Reasons a Homeowner May Want to Use a "Beware of Dog" Sign

Whether you own a feisty little Chihuahua or a giant of a Great Dane, there are a number of reasons you may want to display a "Beware of Dog" sign on your property.

For many homeowners, a "Beware of Dog" sign seems like an easy and cheap way to deter thieves from breaking and entering. For other homeowners, you may just want to offer a friendly word of caution to anyone who may be making their way through your yard.

Can a "Beware of Dog" Sign Make You Liable?

You may not have considered this a possibility, but in certain situations, posting a "Beware of Dog" sign on your property could make you liable for any injuries obtained by trespassers. How is this possible?

In some situations, the posting of a "Beware of Dog" sign is an admittance that your dog is dangerous and may be likely to bite. For example, in Alabama, you can avoid liability if you had no prior knowledge that your dog posed a threat, but the posting of the sign could certainly indicate that you had some knowledge as to your dog's temperament. And, even in cases where your dog was provoked by the trespasser or just doing their duty to protect you and your family, you may still be held liable for any injuries that your dog has caused. Of course, this varies from state to state, so it's vital that you speak with a local dog-bite attorney about your rights and the laws in your area.

What Can You Do Instead to Prevent Liability?

If you're in a state where the posting of a "Beware of Dog" sign could make you liable for injuries to any trespassers, what can you possibly do to prevent liability in the event that your dog does bite someone on your property?

One thing you can do is make it difficult to access your property, like with the use of a tall fence or locked gate. If trespassers are able to easily gain access to your yard, consider keeping your dog in a separate enclosure within your yard when you're not home or outside with them, such as in a locked kennel. Your state may also recognize the use of "No Trespassing" signs, though you'd have to speak with a local attorney to learn more.

To learn more about the liability laws in your state, consult with a personal-injury attorney, such as one from Gartner Law Firm, today.