While many dogs are friendly companions, sometimes dogs can become dangerous. Dog bite accidents can cause severe injuries and, in some tragic cases, even be fatal. Victims of dog bite accidents and their families can suffer not only from physical injuries but may also experience psychological damage. In some cases, victims of dog bites may be eligible for financial compensation if another party is at fault for your suffering.
If you or a loved one suffered dog bite injuries at Cedar Grove within Griffith Park and would like to learn more about your legal options, a Los Angeles Cedar Grove dog bite lawyer can help you determine if pursuing legal action is right for you. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 816-0755 to speak with a team member about your case.
Dangerous Breeds of Dogs
Any dog has the potential to be dangerous, regardless of size, breed, or age. Some animal experts believe that a dog’s history may play a bigger role in determining the potential for aggression than any other factor. A dog that suffered abuse or has a history of aggressive behavior, for example, are stronger indicators of danger than genetic lineage.
However, CIV § 3342 states that regardless of whether the dog has a history of viciousness or if the owner knew of that history, the owner remains liable for the damages suffered by a dog-biting victim.
Dog bites can lead to serious injuries, so every animal owner needs to take as many preventative measures as possible to keep others safe.
Injuries Resulting from Dog Bites
Some injuries that can result from a dog bite or attack include:
- Puncture wounds
- Infections
- Eye injuries
- Permanent scarring and other forms of disfigurement
- Nerve damage that can affect mobility
- Head and neck injuries
- Concussions
- Sprains and strains
- Broken bones
- Emotional and psychological trauma
Anyone can become the victim of a dog bite. Even if you are doing your best to avoid a dog, you are still at risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nearly 1 in 5 dog bite victims require medical attention, and dogs bite nearly 4.5 million Americans each year.
Children may be more at risk for dog bites because many lack the precautionary knowledge that can help prevent attacks. Keeping a safe distance, avoiding unfamiliar dogs, and staying away from sleeping dogs are examples of such preventative measures. Even a naïve child does not deserve to be endangered by an animal, and every dog owner should do their part to protect public safety.
The trauma suffered from a dog bite can extend far beyond the immediate incident. Many victims require medical treatment, and they may also need ongoing therapy to treat their injuries. You may have permanent scarring or physical impairment that affects every aspect of your daily life. You may also suffer pain and suffering that require mental health treatment.
Determining liability, or what party is at fault for a dog bite, is an essential step if you decide to pursue compensation for your injuries. A Los Angeles Cedar Grove dog bite lawyer can help you with your fight for the compensation you might be entitled to receive. Contact the team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today to discuss your case.
For a free legal consultation with a Cedar Grove Lawyer serving Los Angeles, call (800) 816-0755
Determining Liability
Determining the liable party in a dog bite incident can affect the outcome of a case. While a dog owner maintains strict liability for injuries suffered from a dog bite, other factors could bring third parties in play. If a defective leash allowed a dog to break away, for example, the leash manufacturer could face liability. Speaking with a lawyer may be beneficial in determining liability, as no two cases are exactly alike.
Los Angeles Cedar Grove Lawyer Near Me (800) 816-0755
Potentially Recoverable Compensation
Victims of dog bites are potentially eligible for various forms of compensation. This compensation can include:
- Reimbursement for medical bills related to hospitalization and doctor’s visits.
- Ongoing medical expenses, such as physical therapy and mobility aids.
- Lost wages due to an inability to work.
- Pain and suffering.
A judge could also award punitive damages if the dog owner fails to take reasonable steps as required under CIV § 3342.5 to mitigate any danger from a dog that has previously bitten a person.
Speaking with a Los Angeles Cedar Grove dog bite lawyer can help you understand what compensation you could receive in your specific situation.
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Understanding Your Legal Options
Injuries suffered from a dog bite could affect your life or your loved one’s life in many negative ways. It could take months to recover from physical injuries while also dealing with ongoing medical expenses, all while missing time at work convalescing and suffering from fear and anxiety of a future attack.
During this challenging time, it is essential to remember that you have legal options. While every dog bite case is different, speaking with a Los Angeles Cedar Grove dog bite lawyer can help you assess your best course of action.
There is a statute of limitations in the state of California, meaning if you fail to file a case within a specific timeframe (two years for personal injury under CCP § 335.1), a court may not consider your case. Taking immediate action could be in your best interest if someone in your life suffered injuries from a dog bite.
The team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm is available to help answer your questions and discuss your situation in detail. Call (800) 816-0755 to connect with a team member today.
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