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 caused by the owner's negligence. We know 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 our Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer to schedule a free consultation to discuss your dog bite claim.
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 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.
Statistics on Dog Attacks in California: More Common Than You Think
People say that dogs are a man's best friend; however, dogs can also be dangerous. A few key statistics to keep in mind regarding dog bites in California include:
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California has the most dog bites of any state in the country.
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About four in ten households in California own at least one dog.
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In 2022, about 48,596 dog bites led to ER visits, which can be expensive.
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Compared to 2006, this represents a 70 percent increase in ER visits.
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The rate of hospitalizations in CA for dog bites has also doubled since 2005.
These statistics underscore the severity of dog bites in California and how growing an issue they are.
ER Visits for Dog Bites by Age in California: 2005 to 2019
Source: https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/261/5/javma.22.11.0494.xml
What to Do If a Dog Attacks You and How to Protect 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 the 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.
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 California Law Says 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.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Cases
If you've been bitten by a dog, time is critical. In California, you have two years from the date of the bite to file a dog bite claim. Waiting too long can weaken your case, reduce your settlement value, and make it harder to prove key details. That's why it's important to act quickly.
At our firm, we encourage you to consult an attorney as soon as possible. We'll help you gather evidence, meet deadlines, and build a strong case. Don't wait—contact us today to protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.
Examples of Dog Owner Negligence
When you suffer from dog bite injuries, you must know if the pet owner acted negligently. In Los Angeles, dog owners are often held responsible under strict liability law, but certain actions can make their negligence clear. Here are common examples:
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Allowing a dog off-leash in areas where leashes are required.
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Failing to control a dog with a history of aggression, especially with dangerous dog breeds like pit bulls.
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Letting a dog roam freely in unfenced yards or on private property.
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Ignoring reasonable precautions, such as posting warning signs or using proper fencing.
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Bringing a dog to places they're not allowed, like public beaches or hiking trails in Southern California.
If you're a dog bite victim, these actions can strengthen your dog bite case. Whether you've suffered serious injuries or a minor dog bite, proving negligence can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
At our firm, our seasoned dog bite attorneys in Los Angeles are here to help. We know how to handle insurance companies and fight for dog bite injury victims. If you've been hurt in a dog bite attack, contact us today.
Insurance companies often get involved in dog bite cases. They may try to minimize payouts by blaming you or citing comparative negligence. For example, if you were partially at fault, they might argue for reduced compensation. We know how to handle these tactics and protect your interests.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
If a dog has bitten you, you may be dealing with painful injuries and emotional stress. At our firm, we've seen how most dangerous dog breeds and other dangerous breeds can cause severe harm. From physical wounds to lost income, the impact can be overwhelming. Our experienced dog bite lawyers are here to help you file a strong dog bite injury claim.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Infections
Dog saliva can contain numerous bacteria, leading to extreme infections such as rabies, tetanus, and Pasteurella. To prevent complications, immediate medical treatment with appropriate antibiotics is crucial.
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 You 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, the cost of surgeries, medication, and medical equipment.
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 non-economic damages seeking compensation for the physical pain and mental suffering caused by these traumatic incidents.
Factors Affecting Dog Bite Settlements
When you file a dog bite claim, the settlement amount depends on several factors. At our firm, we help dog bite victims in Los Angeles understand what influences their cases. Here are the key factors we consider:
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The extent of injuries:
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Dog bite injuries can range from minor wounds to severe harm like nerve damage, amputations, or traumatic brain injuries.
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Emotional trauma, such as PTSD or a lasting fear of dogs, also plays a role.
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Aggravation of pre-existing conditions
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If the bite worsens a pre-existing condition, like causing a heart attack in an elderly victim, compensation may increase.
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Owner's recklessness or negligence:
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If the pet owner acted recklessly, such as repeatedly letting a dangerous dog roam freely, punitive damages may apply.
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Victim's shared responsibility:
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California's comparative negligence rule reduces compensation if you're partially at fault, like ignoring warnings about a dog's aggression.
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In Los Angeles, dog bite attorneys like us work to ensure you're compensated for medical bills, emotional distress, and other losses. If you've suffered bite injuries, contact our competent dog bite attorney today. We'll help you fight the insurance company and get the justice you deserve.
Proving Liability in Dog Bite Cases
In Los Angeles, California law strongly supports dog bite victims, especially children under 5. If you've been bitten, proving liability is key to your dog bite injury claim. Here's what you need to know:
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Victim's age:
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If the victim is five or younger, thepet owner cannot use the provocation defense. This makes it easier to hold them accountable.
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Location of the incident:
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You must show you were in a public place or lawfully on private property when the bite occurred.
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Establishing ownership:
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Identifying the dog's owner is crucial. Some owners try to avoid responsibility, but our reliable attorneys know how to counter these tactics.
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At our firm, we specialize in Los Angeles dog bite cases. Whether you're dealing with a minor injury or a severe attack, we'll fight to ensure the pet owner is held responsible. If you've been bitten, contact our dog bite attorneys today. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
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 displaying 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 accomplished 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 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 866-795-2450 to find out how we can help you.