What is a motorist’s liability regarding a vet’s billsif they hita stray dog?
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What is a motorist’s liability regarding a vet’s billsif they hita stray dog?
My husband hit a dog. Then 2 women bystanders told him that they had been feeding this stray dog for a few weeks and that they would take the dog to their vet. They asked for his number and if he’d contribute. He was very shaken up and not sure what he should do, so he said he would. Later one of the women called and said they paid $1600 and want him to contribute and she made a point of telling us she’s a lawyer. We would’ve never authorized an expensive procedure. He thought they’d mercifully euthanize the dog. We’re afraid to talk to her in fear she’ll hold something we say against us legally.
Asked on November 14, 2011 under Bankruptcy Law, California
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Technically your husband does not owe any money to anyone for the veterinarian bills for the stray dog he hit with his vehicle. His agreement to pay a portion of the fees was done as a gesture of good will shortly after the accident.
There was nothing of value given to your husband for his agreement at the time to pay for some of the dog's veterinarian bills. From a practical standpoint, the dog unfortunately should not have been in the street. Unless your husband was careless in hitting the dog, he is not bound to pay any costs associated with the injured dog.
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Technically your husband does not owe any money to anyone for the veterinarian bills for the stray dog he hit with his vehicle. His agreement to pay a portion of the fees was done as a gesture of good will shortly after the accident.
There was nothing of value given to your husband for his agreement at the time to pay for some of the dog's veterinarian bills. From a practical standpoint, the dog unfortunately should not have been in the street. Unless your husband was careless in hitting the dog, he is not bound to pay any costs associated with the injured dog.
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