Is my ex-roommate liable to pay my medical bills if I was bitten by their cat?
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Is my ex-roommate liable to pay my medical bills if I was bitten by their cat?
I was bitten by my ex-roommate’s cat after asking her numerous times to come get it along with the rest of her stuff. The bite caused paranichium and costing me nearly $1,600. The cat was at my house for a month before she finally came to get it. It probably would have been longer had it not bitten me.
Asked on July 13, 2011 under Personal Injury, California
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
If your former roommate knew that her cat had a tendency to be aggressive and left you with it without warning of its tendencies, then the former roommate should be responsible for paying your medical expenses resulting from the injury you received.
Many states in this country have statutes regarding a dog owner's liabilty for a dog bite by their pet, but few states have statutes or laws concerning an owner's liability for a cat bit or cat scratching to a third party.
You will have the burden of proving how the cat bit you (attack was unprovoked) and your injuries.
I would send your former roommate the bills for medical costs you incurred with the request that they be paid.
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