California Dog Bite and Animal Attack Lawyer
Compassionate Legal Support for Victims of Animal Attacks
Suffering a dog bite or animal attack can be a deeply traumatic and life-changing experience. In California, where over 36% of households own dogs, dog bite injuries and animal attack incidents occur frequently. Actually, more than 48,000 emergency room visits for dog bites occur annually.
Our animal attack and dog bite attorneys in California understand the profound impact of an animal attack, from mounting medical bills and lost income to emotional trauma and long-term recovery challenges. We are dedicated to holding negligent pet owners accountable and securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Fill out our online contact form or contact us if you or a loved one has been the victim of an animal attack in California.
California’s Dog Bite Laws
California operates under a strict liability framework for dog bite cases, as outlined in California Civil Code Section 3342. This means dog owners are held responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or the owner was aware of its dangerous behavior. This law applies when the victim is bitten in a public place or while lawfully on private property, such as a guest, delivery person, or utility worker.
Strict Liability for Bites: Owners are liable for injuries caused by bites, even if the dog’s teeth don’t break the skin, as long as the incident causes harm, such as bruising or nerve damage.
Non-Bite Injuries: If a dog causes injury without biting, such as knocking someone over, liability may be based on negligence, requiring proof that the owner failed to exercise reasonable care.
Exceptions: Owners may not be liable if the victim provoked the dog, was trespassing, or was injured by a police or military dog performing official duties.
California’s strict liability law simplifies the process for victims to seek compensation without proving the owner’s negligence, but navigating exceptions and defenses requires experienced legal representation.
Common Causes of Animal Attacks in California
California’s high pet ownership rate, combined with its urban density and year-round outdoor lifestyle, contributes to frequent animal attacks. Common causes include:
Unleashed or Unrestrained Dogs
Dogs running free in parks, beaches, or neighborhoods can attack unexpectedly, posing risks to pedestrians, cyclists, or children.
Poor Training or Socialization
Dogs that aren’t properly trained or socialized may react aggressively to strangers, other animals, or unfamiliar situations.
Negligent Ownership
Owners who fail to secure their property, leash their pets, or monitor their behavior can create dangerous situations.
Provocation or Stress
Dogs may bite when startled, threatened, or provoked, though provocation can be used as a defense in court.
Stray Animals
Stray dogs or wild animals, such as coyotes in rural areas, may pose risks, particularly near shelters or undeveloped zones.
Our animal attack attorneys thoroughly investigate each attack to determine liability, whether it involves a pet owner, landlord, or government entity responsible for stray animals.
Compensation for Dog Bite and Animal Attack Victims
Victims of animal attacks may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages, including:
Medical Costs
Coverage for emergency care, surgeries, medications, reconstructive procedures, and ongoing therapy or rehabilitation.
Lost Income
Compensation for wages lost due to time off work or reduced earning capacity caused by long-term injuries.
Pain and Suffering
Damages for physical pain and emotional distress, such as anxiety, fear of animals, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Scarring and Disfigurement
Compensation for permanent physical changes, such as scars from bites or scratches, which can impact self-esteem and quality of life.
Punitive Damages
In cases of extreme negligence, such as an owner knowingly allowing a dangerous dog to roam free, additional damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party.
Challenges in Animal Attack Cases
Animal attack cases can be complex due to defenses raised by owners or their insurance companies, including:
Provocation
Claiming the victim teased, threatened, or otherwise provoked the animal, which can reduce or eliminate liability.
Trespassing
Arguing the victim was unlawfully on the property at the time of the attack, negating the owner’s duty of care.
Assumption of Risk
Asserting that victims, such as veterinarians or dog trainers, knowingly accepted the risk of injury by working with animals.
Our attorneys counter these defenses by collecting robust evidence, such as witness statements, medical records, animal control reports, and surveillance footage. We also collaborate with experts, including animal behaviorists and medical professionals, to demonstrate the owner’s failure to prevent the attack.
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Vehicle-Related Accidents
Premises & Liability Cases
Serious & Catastrophic Injuries
Legal Deadlines and Reporting Requirements
Time is critical in animal attack cases. Under California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1, victims have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. If the injury isn’t immediately discovered, the discovery rule may allow one year from the date of discovery. For claims involving government entities, such as attacks by stray dogs from public shelters, a claim must be filed within six months under the California Government Claims Act (Government Code Section 911.2).
Additionally, California law requires both victims and dog owners to report dog bites to the local health department or animal control agency to screen for rabies and assess the dog’s history. Failure to report can result in fines or criminal charges for owners and may complicate your case. Our team ensures all reporting requirements are met and legal deadlines are adhered to, protecting your right to compensation.
Missing legal deadlines can bar you from recovering compensation. Contact our dog bite and animal attack lawyers promptly to ensure your claim is filed on time.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite or Animal Attack
Seek Medical Attention
Get treated promptly to address injuries, prevent infections like rabies, and document your condition.
Report the Incident
Notify local animal control or the health department, and request a report to establish the incident’s details.
Document the Scene
Take photos of your injuries, the animal, and the location of the attack, if possible.
Gather Witness Information
Collect contact details and statements from anyone who witnessed the incident.
Preserve Evidence
Keep clothing, shoes, or other items damaged during the attack as evidence.
Contact an Attorney
Consult with a dog bite attorney as soon as possible to evaluate your case and begin building a claim.
Contact Our California Dog Bite Attorneys Todayrneys Today
A dog bite or animal attack can leave you with physical scars, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens. Our experienced California attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the legal process, from investigating the attack to negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court.
Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation today!