One in five people bitten by dogs require medical attention, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fortunately, in California, you can hold a dog owner liable for your situation.
Talk to a Los Angeles Crystal Springs dog bite lawyer from Pintas & Mullins Law Firm to know your legal options. Their team of attorneys can help you seek compensation in two ways—filing a personal injury claim or pursuing a lawsuit. To get started, reach out at (800) 816-0755 to discuss the details of your case.
What to Do After a Dog Bite Injury
Whenever a dog attacks, it often does so without warning, catching its victim unaware. In the aftermath, a simple oversight can affect your chances of claiming compensation for the injuries and resulting complications. Below are the essential steps to take following the incident.
Get Treated
No matter the severity of your injuries, you must seek medical attention right away. A small bite can lead to rabies and other infections, especially if the skin broke. Rabies is a highly fatal disease, and immediate vaccination can stop its progression. Similarly, tetanus is a threat that requires prompt medical care.
Document the Incident
Going to the doctor serves another purpose apart from treating the dog bite—it can prove the validity of your claim. Your medical records and bills will serve as proof of injuries and expenses incurred because of the canine attack. Moreover, take photos of your bite-related injuries to establish a stronger link. Getting testimonies from witnesses will also help your case.
Rather than chase the dog, let animal control or law enforcement officers handle the identification if you do not know its owner.
Consult a Lawyer
When asked to give a statement, it is better to consult a lawyer first. Work with a Los Angeles Crystal Springs dog bite lawyer at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm so you will have a better idea of what to say. They will help you in negotiating the fair compensation that you deserve. Call today to move forward with your case.
Dog Owners Are Strictly Liable for Bites in California
Determining liability is the key to your claim, and in some states, it can get tricky. Sometimes, pet owners are not responsible for the bite-related injuries of a third-party. However, in California, it is different.
The state is among others that have a strict liability statute for dog owners. It means that pet owners are responsible for damages arising from the dog bite, regardless of whether the canine was provoked or never displayed a vicious behavior previously. However, it will only apply if the attack happened in a public place or lawfully in a private property. If a dog bit you in the park or at a friend’s home, its owner could not escape liability, even when they argue exercising reasonable care.
The statute also applies to anyone performing a legal duty within a private place, such as delivering mail or working, when the dog attacked. If the canine grabbed you with its teeth but did not break the skin, it counts as a dog bite, and the statute holds.
There are exceptions to the strict liability rule. When you suffer bite-related injuries from police or military dogs, you cannot seek compensation, especially when the animal was carrying out duties or provoked. Another exception is an injury that did not result from a bite. For instance, a dog caused harm by jumping on you or chasing you, which led to a slip-and-fall accident. The owner is not liable, but they can be under the negligence rule. They failed to control or secure the animal, resulting in injuries.
If you remain unsure of who is liable for your injuries, consult a Los Angeles Crystal Springs dog bite lawyer. They will offer legal advice about your situation to ensure that you get justly compensated for troubles arising from the incident. Get started on your case today with a free consultation by calling Pintas & Mullins Law Firm.
For a free legal consultation with a Crystal Springs Lawyer serving Los Angeles, call (800) 816-0755
Damages You May Receive for Dog Bites
Dog bites are common, and if you were a victim of one, know that you have the legal right to recover a financial award. However, the amount of compensation will vary according to the situation—there is no standard payout for claims. The liable parties have to pay for some of the following:
- Medical expenses, including rehabilitation
- Lost income
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Damaged property due to the incident
It is best to discuss the specifics of your case to a Los Angeles Crystal Springs dog bite lawyer. After reviewing critical information, they can estimate the value of your economic and non-economic losses.
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Why Consult with a Dog Bite Lawyer
After you or your loved one’s harrowing experience with a canine attack, it is crucial to speak to a lawyer who handles these cases. Most dog bite lawyers have broad experience in dealing with insurance claims, settlements, and private lawsuits. They can provide a more accurate and detailed estimation of financial losses arising from medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other future expenses.
Moreover, their understanding of the law ensures that you get compensated for the harm, injuries, and lost opportunities because of another person’s negligence or oversight.
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Call on Us for Legal Help
If you are a victim of a dog bite, Pintas & Mullins Law Firm is ready to help you negotiate the settlement, be it through an injury claim or lawsuit. We will assist you from start to finish to ensure that you have everything covered, including timely and relevant updates. A Los Angeles Crystal Springs dog bite lawyer from their roster will examine the facts in building a case, should you proceed with going to trial.
Call (800) 816-0755 for a no-obligation initial consultation. We will fight for justice and a fair settlement on your behalf.
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