Getting attacked by a dog can be one of the most frightening experiences in life. While dog attacks do result in physical injuries and scarring, many victims also suffer grave psychological and emotional scars that could remain with them for the rest of their lives.
What's frightening about dog bites is that they can happen anywhere, anytime—whether walking in your neighborhood, visiting a friend or acquaintance, or delivering food or a package on the job.
If you have suffered injuries as a result of a dog attack, you may be able to receive compensation for the injuries, damages, and losses you have suffered. At Vaziri Law Group , we have seen countless dog bite injuries that have happened due to the owner's negligence. We know the California dog bite laws, and we can pursue compensation for those injured in a dog bite attack.
Learn more about what happens in a dog bite injury case below. Then, contact us to schedule a free consultation to discuss your dog bite claim.
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Our Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer Fights for the Rights of Dog Bite Victims
At Vaziri Law Group, we know that dog bites occur when people least expect them. While people say dogs are a man's best friend, dog bites can lead to major injuries. These include infections, serious bleeding, nerve damage, and even bone fractures. Dog bite claims can help you recover compensation for your medical bills and the income you might have lost. We want you to focus on your medical recovery. Let us handle the legal issues for you.
What to Do If A Dog Attacks You: Protecting Your Rights
If you have been injured in a dog attack, there are certain steps you would be well advised to take to protect your rights:
Locate the dog's owner.
Many dog attacks in Los Angeles are caused by dogs running loose in the neighborhood or animals escaping from their homes. The dog owner is responsible for ensuring his or her dog is properly confined. One of the first steps to take if a dog has bitten you is to identify and locate the animal's owner.
Report it to the authorities.
Contact your local animal control agency . Your city may have an animal control department, or in many cases, that department may be under the county. Be sure to report the dog attack to local animal control officials.
Get prompt medical treatment.
Seek and obtain medical attention, treatment, and care for your dog bite injuries. This is critical because dog bites have a higher risk of infection. Get the treatment you need and carefully compile your medical records. This will help document the injuries you suffered and the treatment you received when you filed your claim.
Gather as much evidence as possible.
If you can, take photos of the dog, the location of the attack, and your injuries. If anyone witnessed the attack, obtaining their name and contact information would be a good idea so your lawyer can follow up with them later. Also, save any torn or bloody clothing you were wearing at the time of the attack.
Contact an experienced Los Angeles dog bite lawyer.
Going through the process of seeking compensation can be exhausting and time-consuming. This is why you need a knowledgeable dog bite lawyer who will fight to protect your rights and hold the negligent dog owner responsible for your injuries and losses.
What Does California Law Say About Liability for Dog Attacks?
Under California's "strict liability statute," dog owners are responsible for injuries their pets cause, even if the dog has not shown any prior signs of aggression or whether or not the dog owner knew about it. California Civil Code Section 3342 states that the owner of any dog is liable for the damages sustained by a victim, regardless of whether the attack occurs in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including on the dog owner's property.
There are very few exceptions to this rule, such as when the dog attack was provoked by cruelty toward the animal or when a dog attacks someone on a property illegally or without permission. Under this law, dog owners could potentially face citations and be held financially responsible for the injuries and losses sustained by victims.
In addition, there have also been many cases in Los Angeles where personal injury claims have been upheld against property owners who have permitted a tenant to have a dangerous or vicious dog on their premises.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
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Puncture wounds : Dog bites often result in deep puncture wounds that can damage muscles, tendons, and nerves. These injuries are particularly susceptible to infection and require immediate medical attention.
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Lacerations : Dogs' teeth can cause major lacerations, which may require stitches or even surgery to repair. These wounds can leave scars and require careful wound management to heal properly.
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Broken bones : Larger or more aggressive dogs can exert enough force to break bones, especially in the arms or hands, which people often use to defend themselves during an attack. Recovery from such injuries may involve surgery and physical therapy.
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Facial injuries : Bites to the face are common, especially with children, and can result in grievous disfigurement and emotional trauma. Surgical intervention is often necessary to repair damage to facial structures.
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Nerve damage : Significant bites can cause lasting nerve damage, reducing sensation or motor function in the affected area. This type of injury can be debilitating and sometimes permanent.
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Infections : Dog saliva can contain numerous bacteria, leading to extreme infections like rabies, tetanus, and Pasteurella. Immediate medical treatment with appropriate antibiotics is crucial to prevent complications.
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Emotional and psychological trauma : Beyond the physical injuries, dog bites can lead to long-term psychological effects such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and a lifelong fear of dogs. Counseling and therapy may be required to address these issues.
What Types of Damages Can I Seek in a Dog Bite Case?
If you have been injured in a dog attack in Los Angeles, you may be able to receive compensation for losses including:
Medical expenses:
This might include emergency transportation, treatment, hospitalization, cost of surgeries, medication, medical equipment, etc.
Cost of cosmetic surgery:
Dog bites often result in scarring and disfigurement, which can cause not just a great deal of physical discomfort but also emotional and psychological trauma. Your compensation claim should include the cost of surgery to repair scarring.
Permanent injuries and disabilities:
In some cases, brutal dog attacks can leave victims with lifelong injuries or disabilities.
Pain and suffering:
These are noneconomic damages seeking compensation for the physical pain and mental suffering caused by these traumatic incidents.
Why Do I Need an Attorney in a Dog Bite Case?
Dog bite cases can be complicated. Several questions must be asked in such situations, including but not limited to:
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Was anyone violating any laws?
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Did the dog have a history of biting or aggressive behavior?
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Was the dog bite victim on a property legally, or was he or she trespassing or there for illegal reasons?
An experienced personal injury lawyer who has successfully handled dog bite cases can help you comprehend your legal rights and options to make the best decisions for your situation. Your lawyer can also help you compile vital evidence that could help strengthen your claim and negotiate with the insurance company to maximize your compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do immediately after a dog bite?
Immediately after a dog bite, seek medical attention as soon as possible to treat any injuries and to document them for your case. Contact a skilled dog bite lawyer who can advise you on your rights and the next steps.
Can I receive compensation if the dog owner is a friend or a family member?
Yes, you can still pursue a compensation claim even if the dog owner is a friend or a family member. Most claims are covered under the homeowner's dog owner's insurance policy, not out of pocket.
What if the dog that bit me didn't have a previous history of aggression?
If the dog that bit you didn't have a history of aggression, the dog owner could still be liable regardless of the animal's past behavior under California's strict liability laws. You do not need to prove negligence if you were bitten in a public place or lawfully in a private place.
How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in California?
You generally have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit in California. However, consulting with an attorney soon after the incident is imperative to protect your rights.
What types of damages can I recover in a dog bite lawsuit?
The damages you can recover in a dog bite lawsuit include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. In severe cases , you may also claim for disfigurement and future medical treatments.
Contact Our Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer To Schedule a Free Consultation
After a dangerous dog bite, seek immediate medical attention. Then, let our team go to work on your behalf. The experienced Los Angeles dog bite lawyers at the Vaziri Law Group are committed to fighting for the rights of injured victims.
If you have suffered serious injuries in a dog bite, let us help you. We can handle all paperwork and documentation related to your claim so you can take the time to recover from your injuries. Do not face this case on your own. Let us fight for you. If you have been critically injured in a dog attack, call us at 310-777-7540 to find out how we can help you.