7. Assume that the defendant knew his dog would often chase cars but refused to restrain it. If the plaintiff asserts a claim against the defendant, will the plaintiff prevail?

B is correct. The owner of an animal can be held responsible for the damage caused when that animal escapes its owner's property. Because the dog is a domestic animal, the damage caused by the defendant's dog will generally create liability for compensation only if the defendant knew of his dog's «mischievous propensity.» (Note: Some states, however, have imposed strict liability statutes for damage caused by wandering/trespassing dogs).

A is incorrect. The plaintiff will prevail, but not because the dog was the cause in fact of the plaintiff's injury. As stated above, the owner of an animal can be held responsible for the damage caused when that animal escapes its owner's property.

C is incorrect. While owners of wild animals are held in strict liability for the animal's damages, owners of domestic animals can also be held strictly liable, if the animal's «mischievous» propensity is known.

D is incorrect. The defendant's dog is a trespasser, with or without an applicable leash law, once it leaves its master's property.