If a dog bites you in California, the dog’s owner is almost always legally responsible — even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. Under California Civil Code §3342, the state follows a “strict liability” rule for dog bites, meaning the owner is liable regardless of prior knowledge or negligence.

That single fact separates California from many other states — and it’s the reason you should contact an experienced Los Angeles dog bite lawyer immediately to protect your rights, secure evidence, and pursue maximum compensation.

Call The Law Offices Of Gerald L. Marcus today for a FREE consultation: 818-784-8544. We’ve helped countless dog bite victims across California recover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering after serious animal attacks.

🏛️ Understanding California’s Dog Bite Law (Civil Code §3342)

California’s law is clear:

“The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place.”

Here’s what that means for victims:

• You don’t have to prove negligence or that the owner knew the dog was dangerous.

• The law applies even if the dog has never bitten anyone before (“first bite rule” doesn’t exist here).

• You only need to show that:

  1. The defendant owned the dog,

  2. The bite happened in a public or lawful private place, and

  3. You were injured as a result.

⚖️ When the Owner Might Try to Avoid Liability

Even though the law favors victims, dog owners and their insurance companies often fight back. They might argue:

• You were trespassing at the time of the bite.

• You provoked the dog (teasing, hitting, or aggressive behavior).

• You assumed the risk (for example, professional dog handlers, vets, or groomers).

An aggressive dog attack attorney in California knows how to defeat these defenses — by collecting witness statements, medical records, and surveillance footage to show the true cause of the attack.

🩸 Common Dog Bite Injuries We See

Dog bites can cause far more than puncture wounds. Many victims suffer:

• Severe lacerations and torn skin

• Nerve and tendon damage

• Permanent scarring or disfigurement (especially on the face)

• Infections such as rabies or MRSA

• Emotional trauma, PTSD, and fear of animals

• Broken bones or crush injuries (especially in children and the elderly)

If you were attacked, get medical treatment immediately, even if the wound looks small. Infection can develop quickly — and medical records are crucial evidence in your claim.

💰 What Compensation Can You Recover After a Dog Bite?

A skilled dog bite lawyer in Los Angeles can pursue full financial recovery for:

• Medical bills (emergency care, surgery, plastic surgery, therapy)

• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity

• Pain and suffering and emotional distress

• Permanent scarring or disfigurement

• Psychological counseling

• Punitive damages in severe negligence or reckless ownership cases

At The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus, we know how to present these damages powerfully — we don’t just seek settlement; we fight for maximum recovery.

🐕 Who Pays for a Dog Bite in California?

In most cases, the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance pays for your claim.
However, insurance companies often:

• Deny claims claiming “provocation” or “trespass”

• Offer low settlements

• Delay or ignore claims hoping victims will give up

That’s why having a dog bite attorney handle negotiations is essential.
We handle every step — from the initial insurance notice to trial if needed.

📸 What To Do After a Dog Bite in California

To protect your case and strengthen your claim:

1. Get immediate medical attention — infection and scarring risks are high.

2. Identify the dog and owner — name, address, phone number.

3. Report the bite to Animal Control or the police.

4. Take photos of injuries, the dog, the location, and any torn clothing.

5. Get witness names and statements.

6. Do NOT talk to the insurance adjuster alone.

7. Call a California dog bite lawyer immediately.

📍 Common Places Dog Bites Occur in Los Angeles

• Apartment complexes and shared residential properties

• Public parks and dog runs (Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon, Elysian Park)

• Sidewalks and neighborhoods with off-leash dogs

• Delivery or postal routes (Amazon, UPS, USPS, food delivery workers)

• Private homes during visits or parties

Dog attacks are common in Los Angeles County, Riverside County, Orange County, and San Bernardino, often involving breeds like pit bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and mixed breeds — but any dog can bite if not properly restrained.

👩‍⚖️ Why You Need a Dog Bite Attorney in California

Dog bite cases may seem straightforward, but they can quickly become complex. Insurance companies often:

• Downplay your injuries

• Blame you for the incident

• Offer lowball settlements before you know the full extent of damage

An experienced dog attack attorney will:

• Investigate liability

• Gather expert medical opinions

• Calculate total damages

• Handle all communication and negotiation

• File a lawsuit if necessary

At The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus, we’ve been protecting California injury victims for over 38 years. We know how to hold negligent dog owners — and their insurers — fully accountable.

🧾 Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims in California

Victims have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit.
If the victim is a minor, that deadline may be extended — but waiting too long can destroy your claim.

Act fast. Evidence fades. Witnesses forget.
Call 818-784-8544 today for a free case review and learn your legal options before it’s too late.

🗣️ What If a Dog Bit My Child?

Dog bites to children are among the most devastating cases we handle.
Kids are more likely to suffer facial injuries, lasting scars, and psychological trauma.
California courts take these cases extremely seriously, and juries are often sympathetic to young victims.

Our team works with pediatric specialists and trauma experts to ensure your child receives full justice and care.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bites in California

Q: Can I sue if a dog bites me but doesn’t break the skin?
A: Yes. Even a minor bite or bruise can justify compensation if it caused pain, medical treatment, or emotional distress.

Q: What if a dog knocked me down but didn’t bite?
A: You may still have a premises liability claim if negligence caused your injuries.

Q: What if the dog’s owner says I provoked it?
A: Your attorney can investigate and challenge that defense — video or witness evidence often proves otherwise.

Q: How much does a dog bite lawyer cost?
A: We work on a contingency fee basis — no fee unless we win your case.

🚨 Call a Trusted Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love has been bitten, attacked, or injured by a dog anywhere in California — from Los Angeles to San Bernardino to Riverside — don’t face the insurance company alone.

Call The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus at 818-784-8544 or contact us online for a FREE consultation.
We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and fight to get you the justice and compensation you deserve.