Dog walking has become a popular gig economy job, with platforms like Wag! and Rover providing convenient connections between pet owners and walkers.
While this work offers flexibility and an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, it also comes with risks. One of dog walkers’ most significant hazards is the potential for dog bites, which can cause serious physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens.
You may wonder about your rights if you are injured while walking a dog for Wag! or Rover. Can you seek compensation? Is the dog owner, the platform, or someone else responsible for covering your damages? At Weinberg Law Offices, we help injured dog walkers navigate these complex situations and pursue the compensation they deserve.
Wag! And Rover Dog Bite Policies
Both Wag! and Rover offer insurance coverage for their contractors, including protections for injuries sustained on the job. These policies typically cover medical expenses for dog bites and, in some cases, may also include lost wages for time missed due to injury. However, Wag! and Rover dog bite policies often have limitations that can leave walkers questioning their coverage.
One common restriction is that the coverage may not apply if the walker is found negligent. For example, failing to follow safety guidelines provided by the platform or ignoring a pet owner’s instructions could void the coverage.
Some policies may also exclude incidents involving certain breeds deemed “high-risk” or aggressive. Additionally, coverage caps may limit the total compensation available, leaving walkers to cover remaining costs out of pocket.
Be sure to review the terms of your agreement with Wag! or Rover to provide clarity. However, seeking legal advice is often the best way to understand your rights fully.
Who Is Liable in a Dog Walker Bite Case?
Liability for dog bite injuries in California often depends on who owns the dog. Under the state’s strict liability law, dog owners are typically responsible for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of whether the dog has previously shown aggressive behavior.
This means that if a dog walker is bitten while performing their duties, the pet owner is generally liable for covering the damages. However, determining who is liable in a dog walker bite case can be complicated.
Can a Dog Walker Sue Wag! Or Rover?
So, can a dog walker sue Wag! or Rover for damages? The answer depends on the specific circumstances of the incident and the relationship between the walker and the platform.
Wag! and Rover classify their walkers as independent contractors rather than employees. This distinction limits the platform’s liability for injuries sustained by walkers while performing their duties. However, there are exceptions.
If a platform’s negligence contributed to the injury, such as failing to screen dogs with known aggression issues or providing inaccurate information about the pet, the walker may have grounds to sue.
Are Dog Walkers Ever Liable for Dog Bites?
While dog owners are typically held responsible for injuries caused by their pets, there are scenarios where a walker might share liability. A dog walker liable for dog bite injuries may occur in cases where their actions directly contributed to the incident. For example:
- Failing to secure a leash or harness properly, allowing the dog to lash out;
- Ignoring clear warning signs of aggression, such as growling or lunging; and
- Acting recklessly or provoking the dog, causing it to bite in self-defense.
In such cases, the dog owner or platform may argue that the walker’s negligence contributed to the incident and limit their liability. Dog walkers should follow safety protocols and exercise caution to minimize risk and protect themselves from liability.
Legal Steps to Take After a Dog Bite on the Job
If you are bitten by a dog while working for Wag! or Rover, taking the right steps immediately after the incident can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek medical attention right away to treat your injuries and document the extent of the harm;
- Report the incident to the dog owner and the platform to create an official record of the attack;
- Document the scene with photos of your injuries, the dog, and the location where the bite occurred;
- Gather witness statements if anyone observed the incident; and
- Contact a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer to evaluate your case and determine the best course of action.
By acting promptly, you can preserve valuable evidence and build a stronger claim for compensation.
Call (818) 697-1079 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
Protect Your Rights as a Dog Walker | Contact an Experienced Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog walkers face unique risks on the job, and injuries caused by dog bites can have serious physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Understanding your rights and knowing who is responsible for covering your damages is essential.
At Weinberg Law Offices, we focus on helping injured dog walkers navigate the complexities of liability and compensation. Whether dealing with Wag! and Rover dog bite policies or pursuing legal action against a negligent dog owner, we provide the guidance and representation you need.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wag! Or Rover’s Insurance Cover Dog Bite Injuries?
Both platforms offer insurance that may cover medical expenses for dog bites, but these policies often include limitations. Coverage may not apply if the walker is deemed negligent or if the incident involves excluded breeds. Reviewing the terms of the platform’s insurance and consulting an attorney can clarify your rights.
Can I Sue a Dog Owner and Wag! Or Rover at the Same Time?
If circumstances support their liability, you may pursue claims against the dog owner and the platform. Under California law, dog owners are typically responsible for bites, but platforms may share liability if their negligence contributed to the incident. An experienced attorney can help you identify all responsible parties and pursue appropriate compensation.
What Evidence Do I Need to Prove Liability for a Dog Bite While Dog Walking?
Gather as much evidence as possible to prove liability. This includes photos of your injuries, the dog, and the location of the incident. Obtain witness statements and keep records of your medical treatment. Documentation such as prior complaints or behavior reports can strengthen your case if the dog has a history of aggression. Consulting an attorney can help you collect and organize this evidence effectively.
Disclaimer: This content should not be construed as legal advice.
As a personal injury attorney, my mantra is that there is no such thing as a “small case”. I will give 100% matter how big or small a case may be. I am fluent in English, Hebrew, and Spanish, languages which I use regularly in my practice.
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