If you are the victim of a dog bite, you aren’t alone. Across the country every year, people of all ages are attacked by animals. Many of those animal attacks involve a canine.
Dog bites hurt in many ways. They might result in pain, injury, emotional trauma, lost wages, and property damage. Some attacks are critical, resulting in scars, disfigurement, and even death. Often, an animal’s owner is responsible for the tragic event.
Golden State residents should call West Covina dog bite lawyers for assistance in recovering damages. At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, we fight on your side to help you recover. Call our offices today for your free consultation at (800) 816-0755.
Dog Bites in California Law
The laws of our state protect us from harm. Under California law, dog owners must ensure that their animal doesn’t bite anyone under the state’s strict liability policy. According to California Civil Code (CIV) §3342(a), those bitten by a dog usually receive damages from the owner under this strict liability concept.
Even if the dog did not previously display aggression or seemed dangerous, owners are held liable. There are exceptions to this law, but victims legally on a property can collect compensation if they did not provoke the dog.
In California, dog owners are responsible for the actions of their pets. If there is an attack, and owners fail to provide their contact information, or if they knew their dog was dangerous but did nothing to protect the public, they may even face felony charges. Even if the owner tried to prevent an incident, they may still be liable for damages caused by their dog.
Steps You Can Take After a Dog Bite
- Get Medical Care: If you haven’t already, be sure to seek medical care for your injury as soon as possible. A dog bite can cause a variety of health complications, like rabies. Plus, dogs’ mouths are full of bacteria, and a puncture wound from their sharp teeth can become infected.
- Call the Office of a West Covina Dog Bite Lawyer: Although a lawyer is not necessary, you can call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm for your free consultation. This can help you deal with any legal headaches while you are recovering from the bite. If you decide to hire a lawyer, refrain from discussing the case with others, including insurance representatives.
For a free legal consultation with a Dog Bites Lawyer serving West Covina, call (800) 816-0755
Your Case
Do you have a solid case? We can help you iron out the details of your circumstances Since each case is unique, it can be helpful to discuss your options with an attorney.
If someone’s dog bit you while you were in a public place or lawfully visiting a private residence, the law likely protects you. You may even fall under exceptions to the law regarding trespassing or lawful presence on private property if your job requires it.
However, a dog owner may push back against your argument and claim that you caused or were somehow responsible for your own injuries. Keep these things in mind:
- If your injury was minor, you might still have a case.
- Disclose all the details of the incident when speaking with your lawyer, information may provide helpful evidence against the owner’s arguments.
Don’t let anything dissuade you from seeking legal counsel. At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, we don’t shy away from difficult cases, so be sure to reach out to our office with questions.
West Covina Dog Bites Lawyer Near Me (800) 816-0755
Going to Court
Will you go to court? A frequent question includes what process looks like, including court. Breathe easy, many dog bite cases are settled out of court. That means, your lawyers negotiate with insurance companies and the dog owner, on your behalf, without a trial. Having legal representation can help make the process simpler as the onus is on us to prove your case.
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Damages
Time is precious. When you spend your time healing, and away from work, you lose out on potential earnings. With the strain of medical bills and lost wages, your dog bite may turn into an enormous financial burden. You may also experience mental trauma living with scars/disfigurement from the attack. Your damages may include:
- Medical bills: One of the largest expenses from any personal injury case is the medical bills. All of your medical care related to the attack will be pursued, including ambulance bills, medical supplies, vaccinations, doctor’s bills, and physical therapy.
- Lost wages: You may be entitled to everything you would have made while recovering from your dog bite.
- Pain and suffering: Dog bites can cause immense physical and mental pain and suffering.
- Property damage: You may be eligible for money for property damage, and a lawyer can help you figure out what may be covered.
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The Statute of Limitations and Dog Bite Cases
You don’t have unlimited time to file a case. According to the California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §335.1, personal injury cases should be filed within two years of the date of the incident. Filing closer to the incident is helpful, as it is fresh in the memories of witnesses.
Ways to Help Your Dog Bite Case
As your lawyers, we fight for your justice. Having us in your corner relieves the burden from you, allowing you to focus on your injury. We also will collect the evidence, so you don’t have to concern yourself with those details.
Of course, there are some things you can do to support your case:
- Avoid speaking to insurance companies without consulting us first
- Keep off of social media about the event
- Refrain from speaking to the dog owner about the case
- Hold onto any bills or reports
- Keep a diary or some other record of notes of the incident
Dog Bite Lawyers Can Help You
Obtaining legal counsel can take the burden of proof off your shoulders. Your lawyers help by:
- Conducting their own investigation
- Composing letters on your behalf
- Filing the paperwork
- Building a case and a defense against the owner
If you are in California and need a West Covina dog bite lawyer, call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today at (800) 816-0755.
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