There are no two ways about it – hitting a dog is a traumatic experience for both parties involved. As a responsible driver, you may be wondering what the correct legal procedure is if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation. Knowing how to report this incident and how to protect yourself is essential, as hitting a dog can carry both legal and financial implications. In this blog post, we’ll explore the question of whether you have to report hitting a dog, and what the consequences are if you do. It’s important to understand the legal requirements of this situation, and to be aware of the potential fines, penalties, and legal costs that can result from not following the correct procedure. It’s also important to have an understanding of the emotional impact of hitting a dog, and how best to handle the situation. So, if you’re in this situation, or simply want to be prepared if you ever find yourself in it, keep reading to learn more.
What to Do if You Hit a Dog
As I made my way to the home where I once resided, the neighborhood was enjoying a beautiful day. A group of kids were having a good time playing on the sidewalk at the intersection where I was about to turn onto my street.
A shape appeared to suddenly veer off the sidewalk, into the street, and directly into my moving car out of the corner of my eye. I had the horrifying moment of believing I had struck a child. Thankfully, though, it turned out to be a dog.
Naturally, I slammed on the brakes, and as the vehicle came to a stop, the youngsters who were playing on the sidewalk rushed over to the injured animal, picked it up, and carried it away. I stayed in my car and continued on my way after observing that the dog was being taken care of.
At the time, it appeared to me that I had no further obligations because the animal’s apparent owners were already on the scene and had taken charge of their pet. But as I thought about this incident in the years that had passed since it had happened, I grew more and more troubled that I had no idea what my legal responsibilities would be if I had run over a dog. What exactly is a driver required to do when his or her vehicle strikes (or, as in my case, is struck by) a dog, cat, or other domestic animal?
Which animals do you have to report if you hit them?
If you hit a domestic animal, such as a dog or cat, you must stop and contact the police or another local authority. If you continue, you risk being accused of animal cruelty or failing to notify property owners of damage.
In The Immediate Aftermath Of The Accident
When a dog is hurt after being hit by a car, you must provide the best care possible for the animal. Remember they are in distress and scared. Because of this, wounded animals can become aggressive. Never attempt to move a dog you don’t know. Use a jacket or blanket to cover the dog if the road is congested and moving the dog from the road should only be done as a last resort.
FAQ
Is hitting a dog considered an accident?
In most states, pets are regarded as personal property, so if you are accountable for a hit-and-run involving a pet, any injuries or the pet’s death may be viewed as property damage. Additionally, if you flee the scene after striking a pet, you could be charged with animal cruelty.
What happens if you hit a dog with a car?
Most states treat pets as personal property, so if you hit a dog with your car and flee, it counts as property damage and could result in a fine. Animal cruelty or failing to notify the owner of property damage could be charges brought against you.
Is hitting your dog a crime?
Yes. Every state has laws against animal cruelty, and some types of animal abuse are also crimes.
What to do if you hit a dog on the road?
- Stop your car. Get out where it is safe to do so.
- Check on the animal. …
- Use caution when moving the dog. …
- If no owner is present, check the dog for tags.
- Call the police or animal control for assistance.