Dogs are often considered loyal and protective members of the family. However, at the end of the day, dogs are animals with instincts that can easily override domestication and training. The most common form of aggressive behavior in dogs is biting. Dog attacks are terrifying and can, potentially, be life-threatening.
If you’ve been attacked by a dog or have suffered a dog bite as the result of negligence on the part of the owner, you might be entitled to financial compensation. A Carson dog bite lawyer can review your case and advise you on the next steps. When you’re ready, call (800) 816-0755 for a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
In the days and weeks following a dog attack, it’s common to feel overwhelmed and unsure of the next steps. A Carson dog bite lawyer can advise you on your legal rights, but there are a few things you might want to do immediately, such as seeking medical attention.
Even if the injury appears minor, it is critical to seek out medical attention. Not only will records of medical visits help your personal injury claim, but there may also be injuries that are not immediately apparent. Victims should also have blood drawn to rule out the contraction of any contagious diseases.
Understanding California’s Dog Bite Laws
Dog bite laws vary from state to state, and a Carson dog bite lawyer can walk you through the specifics of California’s legal code. In many states, liability determination operates under a one-bite statute. This means that victims are, generally, only able to seek compensation if the dog in question has previously bitten another person or animal.
Thankfully, California takes a stricter approach to dog bite protection. California Civil Code (CIV) §3342 states that dog owners are liable for any bite-related injuries as long as the victim was lawfully in a private area or public space. Exceptions are made for dog bites involving police or military dogs.
Additionally, California is a strict liability state. As such, a California dog owner is unable to attempt to avoid liability by claiming they had no reason to believe their dog would act aggressively. As a strict-liability state, if you’ve been bitten on private or public property, you could be entitled to compensation.
If California’s dog bite laws seem confusing in relation to your specific case, a Carson dog bite lawyer can review the details of your attack, explain your rights, and possibly advise you on how to proceed with your claim within the prescribed statute of limitations time frame. Contact the offices of Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today to find out how we might be able to help.
For a free legal consultation with a Dog Bites Lawyer serving Carson, call (800) 816-0755
Dangerous Dogs and California Law
Strict liability laws hold all dog owners accountable for their dog’s actions, but California state law goes further and holds owners of previously aggressive dogs to even more stringent guidelines. CIV §3342.5 holds owners of previously aggressive dogs responsible for taking all “reasonable steps” required to remove any danger of future attacks. If this responsibility is neglected, the owner is liable for any damages and can face additional consequences from law enforcement and animal control.
A Dog Might Be Considered Dangerous or Vicious If:
- The dog has forced people to defend themselves from aggressive behavior in the past.
- The dog has previously bitten and caused injury without provocation.
- The dog has killed or injured a domestic animal at least twice in the last three years.
- The dog has killed or injured someone without provocation.
- A court has previously deemed the dog potentially dangerous, and the owner failed to take legally prescribed precautions.
Carson Dog Bites Lawyer Near Me (800) 816-0755
Consult a Carson Dog Bite Lawyer
While the type and amount of compensation you’ll receive can vary if you’ve suffered an injury as a result of a dog attack, you could recover compensation for medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and more. A Carson dog bite lawyer can work with you to ensure your rights are protected and help recover your expenses.
Prepare for a Consultation with a Dog Bite Lawyer
- Collect all pertinent information about the dog bite injury.
- Get the owner’s name and insurance information.
- Photograph your injuries and the dog that attacked you. If you’re not able to photograph the dog, be sure to make notes about the dog’s appearance.
- Collect any medical records and medical bills associated with the injury.
Damages to Which You Might Be Entitled:
- Medical Expenses: This can include immediate medical services along with physical or vocational therapy services. Additionally, if you’ve suffered significant scarring, lost a limb (or the use of a limb), or are living with the emotional and physical consequences of disfigurement, you might be able to hold the owner responsible for any associated costs.
- Counseling: If the attack has left you struggling emotionally, you might be able to hold the dog owner responsible for the cost of your psychological counseling. This can include depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more.
- Lost Wages: This can include wages lost immediately as a result of the need to heal from injuries in addition to any lost or reduced future earnings that result from an inability to perform at your previous capacity.
Dog attacks can be traumatic. Recovery can be lengthy and expensive. Victims can feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn for help covering mounting expenses. The personal injury lawyers at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm understand the physical and emotional turmoil you’re experiencing and are dedicated to acting as your advocate to fight for compensation. We could handle communication with all parties, file required paperwork, and litigate in court on your behalf, if need be. We don’t collect our fee until you win. Call (800) 816-0755 to schedule a free consultation today.
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