If you or someone you love suffered an injury due to a dog bite, you could have legal options available. Some victims of dog bites are able to recover compensation for their losses and suffering. Not only can dog bites physically harm innocent victims, they can also lead to emotional turmoil, financial stress, and have other negative effects on your daily life.
If you were the victim of a dog bite, take action today. Call (800) 816-0755 to speak with a team member at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm. A Los Angeles Ceta Forest dog bite lawyer can offer legal guidance.
The Dangers of Dog Bites
Dog bites are very dangerous for several reasons. They can cause trauma, bleeding, bruising, and broken bones. Some dog bites result in a struggle between the animal and the victim, which can lead to a fall or a traumatic injury to the neck or head, such as a concussion. Many dog bites also result in open wounds which increase the risk of infection.
Dog bite injuries are not only short term but can additionally have lasting impacts on victims. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) published a number of statistics that confirm how dangerous and prevalent dog bites can be:
- Every year in the United States alone, approximately 4.5 million people suffer from a dog bite.
- Nearly 20% of all dog bites require some form of medical attention.
- Children are more likely to be victims of dog bites than adults, even if it is a family-owned dog, or an animal familiar with the victim.
According to Heliyon, males are at a slightly higher risk of becoming victims. This same study also found that the most likely location of a dog bite was the upper extremities, followed by the head or neck region, lower extremities, and trunk.
Anyone can become the victim of a dog bite. If you or someone you love was the victim of a dog bite, remember that you have legal options. No one deserves to suffer because another party was irresponsible with their animal.
Preventing Dog Bites
Even if you already suffered from a dog bite, understanding preventative measures can help you avoid future harm. Some steps you can take to reduce your risk of a dog bite include:
- Avoid approaching an animal if an owner is not present, or without the consent of an animal’s owner. Just because a dog looks calm with its owner does not mean it is safe to other people.
- Do not tease any animal, especially a dog you are not familiar with.
- Never attempt to take food, a toy, or any other object from an animal.
- If you notice a dog without a leash in a public space, consider reporting this to the appropriate authorities. While every park, jurisdiction, and public space has specific rules, there is a chance that this is a violation and could put others at risk.
- If you are a dog owner, understand the importance of training and socialization.
Doing your part to prevent dog bites is not only important for the health and safety of yourself and your loved ones, but it is also a public health concern. You could save others by understanding dog behavior and how to act appropriately.
Determining Liability
Determining liability, or who was at fault for a dog bite, is a central element when filing a legal claim. Civil Code § 3342.5 in the state of California outlines a number of guidelines regarding who should be deemed liable for a dog bite in a public area.
According to this civil code, if a dog is involved in two or more incidents of biting any person, a district attorney or city attorney can bring action against the owner. This could include the evaluation of the animal’s treatment and living conditions. Action can also be extended if an animal is specifically trained to act in an aggressive manner. A dog breed for illegal fighting would be an example of an animal trained with aggressive intent.
Essentially, the owner of a dog is responsible for keeping others safe. If you or your loved one suffered from a dog bite in public, the owner is liable unless there are unusual circumstances surrounding the incident.
The legal process will effectively determine who was liable for a dog biting incident, and additionally determine if compensative measures are necessary. If you have questions about the legal process or are wondering if you have a case, contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm.
For a free legal consultation with a Ceta Forest Lawyer serving Los Angeles, call (800) 816-0755
Possible Recoverable Damages
You may be entitled to various economic and non-economic damages when you take action after suffering injuries from a dog bite. You may receive a financial award that covers medical expenses, pain and suffering and inconvenience, disability, disfigurement, lost income, and more. Your lawyer can gather all necessary evidence such as medical records and photographs to strengthen your case. You should not have to pay out of pocket for injuries you suffered through no fault of your own.
Los Angeles Ceta Forest Lawyer Near Me (800) 816-0755
Contact Us for Legal Support
If you are considering taking legal action against those who are responsible for your dog bite, Pintas & Mullins Law Firm is available to discuss your case. Call (800) 816-0755 today for a free consultation with one of our team members. If you suffered in any way from a dog bite, you could be eligible for compensation. You deserve justice. Act today so you can focus on your recovery and return to your everyday life.
Call or text (800) 816-0755 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form