Dangerous dog laws, including the dog bite law, vary from state to state, with different definitions and outcomes for owners.
In Oklahoma, dangerous dog laws are primarily governed by the Oklahoma Dangerous Dog Act. Under this Act, a 'dangerous dog' is defined as any dog that unjustifiably bites, attacks, or endangers the safety of humans or domestic animals. Owners of dangerous dogs are required to take certain precautions, such as confining the dog in a secure enclosure and posting visible warning signs. Additionally, owners must obtain liability insurance coverage for any injuries or damages caused by the dog. Oklahoma also follows the 'strict liability' doctrine for dog bites, meaning that the owner of a dog is liable for any injuries caused by the dog biting someone, regardless of the owner's knowledge of the dog's viciousness or whether the dog has previously bitten someone. However, the strict liability rule does not apply if the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or committing a criminal act that contributed to the injury.