Dog bite incidents are far more common than many people realize, with thousands of Californians falling victim each year. In the aftermath of such a traumatic event, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the legal recourse available to you.
As California dog bite lawyers, we’ve seen firsthand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a dog attack can take on a person’s life. From emergency room visits and surgeries to missed work and long-term trauma, the consequences can be devastating.
That’s why we’re committed to fighting for the rights of dog bite victims and holding negligent dog owners accountable under California’s strict liability laws.
California is one of several states that enforce strict liability when it comes to dog bites. This means that dog owners are responsible for the injuries their dogs cause, regardless of whether the animal has a history of aggression or biting. California Civil Code Section 3342 states:
“The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness.”
There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as if the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or if the dog was a military or police animal acting in the line of duty. However, in most cases, if you were bitten by a dog in California, the owner is liable for your injuries.
To establish strict liability in a dog bite case, you and your attorney must prove the following elements:
Gathering evidence is crucial to building a strong case. This may include photos of your injuries, medical records, witness statements, and any prior complaints or incidents involving the dog.
An experienced California dog bite lawyer can help you compile this evidence and create a compelling case for compensation.
Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor puncture wounds to severe lacerations, scarring, and emotional trauma.
Some common injuries we see in dog bite cases include:
In some cases, dog bite injuries can have long-term or even permanent effects on a person’s health, mobility, and quality of life. It’s important to seek prompt medical attention and follow through with all recommended treatments to minimize the risk of complications.
While any dog can bite under certain circumstances, some breeds are more frequently involved in serious attacks than others.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, pit bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds are among the breeds most commonly responsible for fatal dog bites.
However, it’s important to note that breed alone does not determine a dog’s propensity for aggression. Factors such as training, socialization, and the owner’s handling of the animal play a significant role in a dog’s behavior. As such, our focus in dog bite cases is on holding owners responsible for their negligence rather than perpetuating breed stereotypes.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in California, taking swift action is essential to protecting your health and legal rights.
Here are the steps you should take:
In the aftermath of a dog bite, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do.
However, there are some common mistakes that can jeopardize your health and your ability to seek compensation:
By consulting with a knowledgeable dog bite attorney early on, you can avoid these pitfalls and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in California, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:
An experienced California dog bite lawyer can assess the full scope of your damages and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
In many cases, we are able to negotiate a fair settlement with the dog owner’s insurance company without the need for a lengthy court battle. However, we are always prepared to take your case to trial if necessary to achieve the best possible outcome.
It’s important to note that there is a time limit for filing a dog bite lawsuit in California. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites, in general, is two years from the date of the injury but can be longer.
If you fail to file your claim within this timeframe, you may be barred from recovering any compensation at all.
There are some rare exceptions that may extend the deadline, such as if the victim was a minor at the time of the bite or if the dog owner concealed their identity. However, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and contact a lawyer as soon as possible after a dog bite incident to ensure that your rights are protected.
Being bitten by a dog can be a painful, frightening, and isolating experience. You may feel like no one understands what you’re going through or how to navigate the complex legal system to seek justice.
But you don’t have to face this difficult time alone.
At LA Dog Bite Law, we’ve helped countless dog bite victims in California stand up for their rights and recover the compensation they need to heal and move forward with their lives. We offer free, no-obligation consultations to listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide honest advice about your legal options.
If you decide to work with us, we’ll be by your side every step of the way, from gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court if needed. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case.
Don’t suffer in silence or settle for less than you deserve. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in California, contact LA Dog Bite Law today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you fight for your rights.
Our reach extends throughout California, from the sunny streets of San Diego to the bustling cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco, and beyond. We’re here to help victims across the state report dog bites, find the legal support they need, and ensure that justice is served. By reporting dog bites and seeking assistance, we’re all doing our part in making our communities safer while helping victims get back on their feet.
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