Dog Bite Injuries: Holding Owners Accountable for Animal Attacks
Owner Accountability for Dog Bites While dogs are often considered man’s best friend, it is important to recognize that dog bite injuries can occur and
Razavi Law Group are top-rated dog bite injury attorneys in California and surrounding areas. Our lawyers at Razavi Law Group have extensive knowledge of the laws that govern dog bite cases. They can help you determine how to proceed when an unfortunate accident occurs. We fully dedicate ourselves and our resources to help you fight for a fair and just settlement.
With over 75 million dogs owned as pets in the U.S., dog bites are prevalent. Over 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs annually, and 20% of those bitten require medical attention. Unfortunately, children and seniors are most likely to be severely injured by a dog bite.
If a dog bit you, in public, or while lawfully in a private place, California law states the owner of the dog is liable for damages suffered. It does not matter if the dog had not bitten anyone prior, was on a leash, or if the owner tried to restrain the dog. Often victims avoid filing a lawsuit because the owner of the dog is a friend or relative. Remember that even if the dog bite occurred at a relative’s home, the insurance carrier usually pays for a settlement instead of the actual dog owner.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, an estimated 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the U.S., and one in five of these dog bites require medical attention. Dog bites can result in severe life long scarring, bodily disfigurement, and sometimes death. If a dog has attacked you or a member of your family, you may have a claim against the dog owner. There are strict dog bite liability laws in the state of California. These laws state that the dog owner is solely liable for an attack, even if the dog did not have a known propensity to bite or act aggressively in the past. Due to these dog bite liability laws, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills as well as the pain and suffering endured by a dog bite attack.
The California Dog Bite Laws govern the legal responsibilities of dog owners and the rights of individuals who have been bitten or injured by a dog. The laws aim to protect public safety and hold owners accountable for their pets’ actions. Please keep in mind that laws can change over time, so it’s essential to consult the most current legal sources for up-to-date information. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of California’s Dog Bite Laws:
Strict Liability: California follows a “strict liability” rule for dog bites. This means that dog owners are held liable for any injuries or damages their dogs cause, regardless of whether the owner was aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies or previous biting incidents. The dog owner is responsible for the full extent of the victim’s injuries, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Public vs. Private Property: The strict liability rule applies not only to incidents that occur on public property but also to those occurring on private property, including the dog owner’s home. The injured person does not have to prove that the dog owner was negligent or at fault for the attack.
Trespassing Exception: However, there is one exception to the strict liability rule. If the injured person was unlawfully on the dog owner’s property at the time of the incident (e.g., trespassing), the owner’s liability may be reduced or eliminated. In such cases, the “one bite” rule may apply, which refers to a dog owner’s liability being contingent on prior knowledge of the dog’s dangerous propensities.
Negligence Claims: In addition to strict liability, injured parties may also pursue negligence claims against a dog owner. This means that if the dog owner acted negligently or failed to exercise reasonable care to prevent the dog from causing harm, they may be held responsible for the injuries.
The defendant is almost always the owner of the dog. However, there are some exceptions to who is liable in dog bite cases. These exceptions vary depending on the details of the case. The following parties may also be held responsible for damages in the state of California:
For you to proceed successfully with your dog bite claim, you must be able to show proof that:
Dog bite cases can result in a complicated legal battle when trying to recover fair compensation. At Razavi Law Group, we are here to ease the process for you. There are also steps you can take to help strengthen your case:
You should speak to a dog bite attorney before speaking with your or the defendant’s insurance companies. You should not agree to, or sign any legal documentation, before consulting with the attorneys at Razavi Law Group regarding your dog bite case.
In California, the responsibility for paying after a dog bite incident typically falls on the dog owner. The state follows a “strict liability” rule when it comes to dog bites, meaning that the owner is held liable for any injuries or damages caused by their dog, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior or whether the owner was aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies.
Here’s a breakdown of the key points regarding who pays after a dog bite in California:
Dog Owner’s Responsibility: The dog owner is responsible for compensating the victim for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage resulting from the dog bite. This rule applies not only to incidents that occur in public places but also to those that happen on private property, including the dog owner’s home.
No Fault Requirement: In a strict liability state like California, the victim of the dog bite does not need to prove that the dog owner was negligent or at fault for the attack. The mere fact that the dog caused harm is sufficient to hold the owner liable for damages.
Trespassing Exception: There is one exception to the strict liability rule. If the injured person was unlawfully on the dog owner’s property at the time of the incident, such as trespassing, the owner’s liability may be reduced or eliminated. In such cases, the “one bite” rule may come into play, which refers to a dog owner’s liability being contingent on prior knowledge of the dog’s dangerous propensities.
Homeowner’s Insurance: In many cases, the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy may cover the damages resulting from a dog bite. Homeowner’s insurance typically includes liability coverage, which can help compensate the victim for medical expenses and other losses. However, some insurance policies may exclude certain dog breeds or impose coverage limits for dog-related incidents, so it’s essential for dog owners to review their policies and understand their coverage.
Dog bites can occur for various reasons, and understanding the common causes can help raise awareness and promote responsible pet ownership. In California, like in many other places, some common causes of dog bites include:
Dog bite injuries can vary in severity, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more serious, life-threatening injuries. In California, as in other places, the types of dog bite injuries that can occur include:
The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a dog bite in California is generally two years from the date of the dog bite incident. This means that the injured person has two years from the date of the dog bite to initiate a lawsuit against the dog owner or other responsible parties for compensation related to the injuries and damages.
It’s essential to understand the statute of limitations because if you fail to file a lawsuit within the specified timeframe, you may lose your right to pursue legal action and seek compensation through the court system.
The amount of money a person can receive for a dog bite injury can vary widely depending on several factors. When seeking compensation for a dog bite, individuals typically pursue damages through a personal injury claim or lawsuit. The following factors can influence the potential amount of compensation:
The cost of hiring a dog bite lawyer can vary depending on several factors, including the attorney’s experience, reputation, location, and the complexity of the case. Dog bite lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases, including dog bite claims.
Speaking with a dog bite attorney is crucial when an attack occurs because insurance companies are more concerned with protecting themselves than compensating you for your medical bills or other trauma. Insurance companies will either try to pay the least amount possible or avoid a payout altogether. Accepting such settlements without consulting an attorney could result in low-ball offers that may not include damages you are entitled to, which could consist of future medical expenses, emotional trauma, or pain and suffering. Our experienced California dog bite attorneys at Razavi Law Group can help Contact us now for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here for you, ready to make a difference in your case.
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