HRS §711-1148
Dog bite victims can still sue the dog's owner
This section says that the dangerous dog rules in this part do not stop a person hurt by a dangerous dog from suing the dog's owner. The lawsuit can be brought under other laws. It simply makes clear that the civil right to sue remains.
The statute, as written — Civil action not precluded
Nothing in this part shall preclude any person injured by a dangerous dog from bringing a civil action against the owner of the dangerous dog pursuant to law. [L 2024, c 224, pt of §2] COMMENTARY ON §§711-1140 TO 711-1148 Act 224, Session Laws 2024, added this part to: (1) define what constitutes a dangerous dog; and (2) establish requirements and penalties for owners of dangerous dogs. The legislature found that the State struggled with the problem of loose dogs that behave aggressively. Despite the passage of ordinance no. 36 by the county of Hawaii in 2022 to establish fines, penalties, and other regulations for individuals who own dangerous dogs, dog attacks continued to occur, demonstrating the need for stronger laws and enforcement. The legislature also found that existing state law preempted the enactment of felony offenses through county ordinance. Accordingly, the legislature noted that Act 224 would protect the public by addressing dangerous conditions caused by dogs and their owners in local communities and imposing appropriate penalties. Senate Standing Committee Report No. 3641, Conference Committee Report No. 3-24. Act 21, Session Laws 2025, amended §§711-1141, 711-1142, 711-1143, 711-1144, and 711-1145 by making technical nonsubstantive amendments.
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