Dog Bite Lawyers

The statute of limitations for filing a dog bite lawsuit is typically two years from the incident date. File your claim within this timeframe, or you may lose your right to seek compensation. California’s bite laws hold dog owners liable for injuries caused by their pets, even if the dog has no history of aggression.

In 2022, California saw 48,596 ER visits for dog bites, a 70% increase since 2005, according to the state Department of Health. After a dog bite, acting quickly to protect your health and legal rights is vital.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek medical treatment immediately, even if the bite seems minor. Dog bites can lead to infections or more severe complications.
2. Document your physical injuries by taking photos of the bite and any other visible damage to your body.
3. Report the bite attack to local animal control or law enforcement to create an official record.
4. Get the dog owner’s information, including their contact details and any vaccination records.
5. Consult a bite attorney who can help you understand your legal options and determine if you can hold the dog owner liable for your injuries.

In California, the animal owner is typically held liable for any damages caused by their dog, regardless of its previous behavior. This means that the owner is still responsible even if the dog has no history of aggression.

The responsible party is liable if the bite occurred in a public place or if the person was lawfully on private property. California law ensures victims can seek compensation without proving the dog was previously dangerous.

No, you do not need to prove negligence to file a dog bite claim in California. The state follows a strict liability rule for animal bites, meaning the dog owner is automatically responsible for the injuries caused by their dog.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to several types of compensation. This can include coverage for medical costs related to your treatment, such as hospital visits, medication, or surgeries. You may also receive compensation for lost wages if the injury prevents you from working.

Additionally, the injured party can seek damages for emotional pain and trauma caused by the bite. Property damage may also be covered, such as torn clothing or broken personal items during the attack. The goal is to ensure you receive fair compensation for all the harm you’ve suffered.

Depending on the circumstances, a dog may be euthanized after certain bite incidents. Euthanasia could be required if the dog has rabies, has bitten at least two people, or has caused severe injuries in an attack.

In cases of a fatal dog attack or if the dog was trained to fight or attack, authorities may also mandate euthanasia. Each situation is reviewed by the court to determine the appropriate action.

The first step in a dog bite case is seeking immediate medical attention and keeping detailed medical records. The incident is reported to local authorities, who may investigate and determine liability. 

Victims often work with personal injury attorneys to file personal injury claims, seeking compensation for medical expenses and other damages. In serious cases, the dog may be quarantined or, in extreme situations, euthanized.

Having a dog bite lawyer can significantly improve your chances of successfully pursuing a claim. These experienced attorneys offer valuable legal advice and support for bite victims in various ways:

• Determining liability: Establishing who is legally responsible for the bite incidents can be complex. A skilled dog bite lawyer in California can identify the responsible parties, such as the dog owner, property owner, or landlord.
• Maximizing compensation: Dog bite lawyers strive to secure maximum compensation for their clients. They assess all damages, including medical costs, pain and suffering, lost wages, and any future treatment needed.
• Negotiating with insurance companies: Interacting with bite insurance claims can be challenging, as insurers often aim to minimize payouts. A lawyer will handle negotiations with insurance adjusters to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
• Trial representation: If negotiations do not yield a satisfactory settlement, your dog bite lawyer will be ready to represent you in court. They will advocate for your interests and work to secure the compensation you deserve.