Dog bites do not only cause physical injuries but emotional and psychological trauma as well. Each year, people in the United States suffer from different types of injuries when they become victims of unprovoked dog bites.
When you or your loved one has been injured in a dog bite incident, reach out to Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 816-0755. A Los Angeles Cleland Ave. Bicentennial Park dog bite lawyer can work to answer your questions and discuss your legal rights if a dog owner is responsible for your suffering. Call today to inquire about your free case review.
Dog Bites Can Result in Serious Injuries
The extent of your dog bite injuries is a significant factor when it comes to the final amount of compensation you are entitled to. While some wounds are minor, others require costly medical care and rehabilitation. Injuries you can sustain from a dog attack include the following:
- Puncture wound
- Lacerations
- Face and throat injuries
- Tetanus
- Permanent disfigurement
- Amputations
- Nerve damage
- Scarring
- Bone fractures
- Blood poisoning
There is also the risk of developing rabies after an animal bite. This viral disease eventually attacks the brain after the saliva of an infected animal finds its way into the bloodstream. Rabies often goes undetected for several months before victims show symptoms. You should seek immediate medical treatment after a dog bite, even if you only have a flesh wound. Consider speaking with a Los Angeles Cleland Ave. Bicentennial Park dog bite lawyer afterward to find out if you are eligible to pursue damages.
Dog Bites Can Cause Emotional Suffering
Aside from physical injuries, dog attacks can also leave emotional pain and suffering. Victims can develop cynophobia or fear of dogs, wherein even the mere sight of a dog can trigger feelings of distress or panic. Those with cynophobia typically experience the following:
- Avoiding friends and family members who have dogs
- Keeping away from places where dogs are usually present, like parks
- Having panic episodes when thinking about dogs
- Becoming paralyzed upon seeing a dog
Other people who have sustained dog bite injuries become diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. This disorder surfaces after a traumatic event, and victims can have a hard time overcoming it, both mentally and emotionally. For the most part, it can be difficult living with cynophobia and emotional trauma. In many instances, victims who emotionally suffer from a traumatic dog attack also have to endure anxiety, depression, and social phobias.
You can talk to a Los Angeles Cleland Ave. Bicentennial Park dog bite lawyer about the unseen effects of a dog attack on you. Physical and emotional recovery can entail costly medical care and counseling, and obtaining fair compensation can go a long way towards receiving proper treatment.
For a free legal consultation with a Cleland Ave. Bicentennial Park Lawyer serving Los Angeles, call (800) 816-0755
There Are Several Reason Dogs Suddenly Attack
Although provoking or teasing a dog frequently results in a dog bite, there are several other reasons dogs attack people. Domesticated dogs sometimes become territorial, and they may try to keep passersby at bay by barking incessantly or worse, chasing people. Dog owners are responsible for correcting any pet behavior that may lead to an attack. Other possible causes of dog bites are:
- Fear, especially when a dog feels threatened
- Sudden noises or movements
- Feelings of pain or illness, usually when a dog is sick
- An inclination to protect the owner
- Learned aggression
- Genetic predisposition to aggression
When you become a victim of an unprovoked dog attack in a public place, the owner and other responsible parties may be liable for your injuries. You have the right to consult a Los Angeles Cleland Ave. Bicentennial Park dog bite lawyer to explore possible legal steps you can take.
California’s Strict Liability Rule
California Civil Code § 3342 declares that dog owners are liable for injuries other people may sustain from dog bites. This is true as long as the victim was in a public place or was lawfully in a private place where the incident took place. Unlike the one bite rule, California’s strict liability rule does not require that dog owners should have known their pets had aggressive tendencies or had a history of dangerous behavior. Moreover, the state’s dog bite statutes allow victims to collect compensation even if a dog attack does not break the skin or when injuries arise from falling over. As simple as the law may seem, it is advisable to go over the legal details with a lawyer to learn more about exceptions and amendments.
Los Angeles Cleland Ave. Bicentennial Park Lawyer Near Me (800) 816-0755
You Have a Limited Time to File a Claim
According to the California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1, you have two years after a dog bite to file a lawsuit against the owner of the dog. The court will most probably dismiss your case if you go beyond this period. Dog bites often fall under personal injury claims and getting in touch with a Los Angeles Cleland Ave. Bicentennial Park dog bite lawyer as soon as possible can help you understand what to expect from your case and ensure you file your suit on time.
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Damages You May Be Able to Recover
The specific damages you can pursue largely depends on the circumstances of your case. Dog bite victims may receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, loss of future earnings, future treatments, pain and suffering, rehabilitation services, and physical therapy.
Sometimes, dog owners do not have to pay for the full amount of the claim. Other sources could include their homeowner’s insurance policy, animal insurance, and car insurance if the dog bite occurred through an open car window. If the owner has no insurance, then he or she will be solely responsible for any related expenses.
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You Deserve to Get Your Life Back After a Dog Bite
Pintas & Mullins Law Firm offers compassionate and respectful legal services to victims hurt by unprovoked dog attacks. Our Los Angeles Cleland Ave. Bicentennial Park dog bite lawyer is prepared to listen to the details of your case and give advice on the next legal steps you should take. You do not have to worry about paying any fees unless a verdict or settlement is reached.
Call us today at (800) 816-0755 to schedule your free consultation or to inquire about our legal services.
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