Facts

On Oct. 15, 2010, Kelly Force was making a delivery to Edgewater Networks Inc. Edgewater Networks had a policy that allowed employees to bring in their dogs with them during work hours. On previous occasions, Force had interacted with a dog belonging to Nicole Burke. However, on this occasion, she rubbed the dog's ears, and gave the dog a treat and kissed it many times. The dog bared his teeth, snapped at her face and bit her. Force sued Burke and Edgewater, alleging that they were strictly liable and negligent for the incident.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Force contended that Burke's dog had two other instances of biting and had been deemed dangerous. She further argued that the city required that insurance be obtained for the dog, and that the dog be muzzled when in a public place. However, the dog was not muzzled, and Burke never warned her of any potential danger from interacting with the dog.

Injuries

Force sustained facial lacerations as a result of the dog bite.

Result

The parties settled for $541,000, of which Edgewater paid $101,000 and Burke the rest.

Other Information

INSURERS: Mid-Century Insurance Co. for Nicole Burke; Chubb Group of Insurance Cos. for Edgewater Networks Inc.