Dog Bites

Support When You Need It Most

A dog bite can cause serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and unexpected medical bills. If you've been attacked by a dog in California, AskLitigation is here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Dog bite cases are a type of personal injury claim. Our attorneys also handle related matters such as premises liability and slip and fall accidents.

Understanding California Dog Bite Law

California has some of the strongest dog bite laws in the country, designed to protect victims:

• Strict Liability: Dog owners are responsible for injuries their dogs cause, regardless of the dog's history or the owner's knowledge of aggression.
• No "One Bite Rule": Unlike some states, California doesn't give dogs a "free first bite."
• Public and Private Property: The law applies whether you were bitten in a public place or lawfully on private property.

When Dog Owners Are Liable

Under California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are liable when:

• Their dog bites someone
• The victim was in a public place or lawfully on private property
• The victim didn't provoke the dog

This strict liability statute makes it easier for victims to recover compensation compared to other states.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks can result in severe injuries, including:

• Puncture wounds and lacerations
• Nerve damage
• Broken bones
• Facial injuries and scarring
• Infections and diseases
• Emotional trauma and PTSD
• In severe cases, wrongful death

Children are particularly vulnerable to serious injuries from dog bites, especially facial injuries due to their height.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

If you've been bitten by a dog in California, take these important steps:

1. Seek immediate medical attention - Dog bites can cause serious infections
2. Report the incident - File a report with animal control and/or police
3. Document everything - Take photos of injuries, the location, and the dog if possible
4. Get owner information - Obtain the dog owner's name, contact, and insurance details
5. Gather witness information - Collect names and contact details of anyone who saw the attack
6. Keep all medical records - Save documentation of treatment and expenses
7. Contact an attorney - Get legal guidance to protect your rights

What Compensation Can You Recover?

California dog bite victims may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, therapy)
• Future medical costs
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and trauma counseling
• Scarring and disfigurement damages
• Property damage (torn clothing, broken items)

The amount of compensation depends on the severity of injuries and impact on your life.

Time Limits for Filing a Dog Bite Claim

In California, you have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it's important to act quickly to:

• Preserve evidence
• Document injuries properly
• Locate witnesses
• Meet insurance deadlines

Don't wait to seek legal help - early action can strengthen your claim.

Defenses Dog Owners May Use

While California has strict liability, dog owners may still argue:

• You were trespassing on private property
• You provoked the dog
• You assumed the risk (veterinarians, dog trainers)
• The incident involved a military or police dog performing duties

An experienced attorney can help counter these defenses and protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions About California Dog Bite Claims

Does California's strict liability law apply to all dog injuries?

The strict liability statute specifically applies to dog bites. Other injuries like being knocked down may fall under general negligence laws, which require proving the owner knew the dog was dangerous.

What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?

In California, it doesn't matter if the dog has never shown aggression before. Owners are strictly liable for bite injuries even if it's the dog's first incident.

Can I sue if I was bitten while working?

Yes, you may have both a workers' compensation claim and a personal injury claim against the dog owner, unless the dog owner is your employer.

What if the dog owner doesn't have insurance?

Many homeowner's and renter's insurance policies cover dog bites. If there's no insurance, you may still pursue compensation from the owner's personal assets.