Dog bites can happen in the blink of an eye, but the physical and emotional consequences can last much longer. Being bitten by a dog can be a distressing event, whether it occurs while visiting someone’s home or just strolling in your neighborhood.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite incident in California, you may be wondering who is legally responsible, especially if the incident occurred on private property. Here, we’ll walk you through what the law says—and what you can do next.
What Happens If Your Dog Bites Someone in California?
The strict liability law in California automatically holds the pet owner responsible for bite injuries, even if it’s the dog’s first offense. This means the owner is liable regardless of whether they knew their dog had a history of aggressive behavior or had never shown signs of violence before.
California holds owners accountable from the first incident, unlike some states that give dogs a “free pass” for a single bite. This law applies whether the bite occurs in public or on private property, as long as the victim was legally present.
For example, a delivery driver, guest, or maintenance worker bitten while on someone’s premises can legally file a bite claim. The aim is to ensure that bite victims have a straightforward path to seek financial compensation for medical care, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
Legal and Medical Consequences of Dog Bites in California
Dog bite incidents are more common than many people realize. According to the CDC, over 4 million Americans experience animal bites annually, with approximately 800,000 requiring treatment for rabies. California consistently reports some of the highest numbers of bite injuries, and counties like Santa Clara County have taken notice due to rising cases.
Beyond physical pain, a bite wound can lead to serious complications such as nerve damage, scarring, psychological trauma, and risk of infection. In some cases, rabies is also risky, which requires immediate medical treatment and ongoing monitoring.
These outcomes can lead to mounting medical bills, emotional distress, and time away from work, costs that many victims cannot afford to bear alone. That’s where California’s bite law is meant to protect you.
Victims do not need to prove that the pet owner was negligent. The only requirements are that the bite happened in California and the victim was lawfully on the premises. These protections exist to ease the process for bite victims and ensure they’re not left to deal with the aftermath alone.
What Should You Do After a Dog Bite on Private Property?
If you or someone you love has been bitten, your immediate priority should be safety and health. Here’s what to do:
- Seek medical attention right away. Even minor bite wounds can become serious without treatment, and you’ll want documentation of your injuries.
- Report the incident. File a report with your local animal control agency or the police. This creates an official record of the attack, which is helpful for your personal injury claims.
- Gather evidence. Take pictures of your injuries, the location, and if possible, the dog. If there are witnesses, get their contact information.
- Avoid negotiating with the pet owner directly. Some may offer to pay your medical bills informally to avoid legal trouble, but this can jeopardize your ability to recover full compensation later.
- Contact experienced legal representation. Working with qualified dog bite lawyers in Santa Clara ensures your rights are protected and you pursue the compensation you deserve.
When Property Owners May Be Held Liable
Sometimes, a person other than the pet owner may also bear responsibility. For example, landlords or property managers may be held liable if they were aware of the dog’s dangerous behavior and failed to act. This can apply to bite attacks in apartment complexes, shared housing, or even during social visits.
If the dog was under someone else’s care at the time of the attack, like a dog sitter, relative, or tenant, the question of liability can become more complex. This is why it’s essential to have a lawyer familiar with California bite law examine your case in detail.
We Can Help You Recover
Dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming, especially when you’re also trying to recover physically and emotionally. At Farahi Law Firm, we understand how devastating bite incidents can be.
Our dog bite lawyers in Santa Clara have helped countless Californians navigate bite lawsuits, gather crucial evidence, and pursue maximum compensation. Whether you suffered a serious bite wound or are experiencing long-term effects from the trauma, you shouldn’t have to go through it alone.
We offer free consultations to help you understand your rights and decide the best next steps after a dog bite. Contact us today to learn how we can help you get the medical care you need and the money you deserve.
