Dog bites can be traumatic and lead to serious physical and emotional injuries.

For Los Angeles residents, it’s essential to understand your rights if you’ve suffered a dog bite.

California has specific laws that protect victims, holding dog owners accountable and ensuring you get the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Strict Liability in California

California follows a “strict liability” rule when it comes to dog bites. This means that a dog owner is legally responsible for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog has previously shown signs of aggression or has bitten someone before.

In other words, if a dog bites you, the owner is liable, even if they didn’t know the dog could be dangerous.

This strict liability rule applies if:

1. The bite occurred in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property.
2. The victim did not provoke the dog.

The strict liability law is found in California Civil Code Section 3342. By holding dog owners responsible, the law aims to protect public safety and prevent future incidents.

Exceptions to the Rule

While California’s strict liability law is comprehensive, there are some exceptions. Owners may not be held liable if:

• The victim was trespassing on private property at the time of the bite.
• The dog was performing specific duties, such as in the case of police or military dogs during active duty.
• The victim provoked the dog, which can be a complex determination in legal terms and may involve examining the circumstances around the incident.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in Los Angeles

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s crucial to take the following steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Dog bites can lead to infections, scarring, and other serious complications. Getting medical treatment ensures proper care and documents your injuries.
2. Report the Incident: Contact local animal control to report the dog bite. In Los Angeles, this can help track aggressive dogs and prevent future attacks.
3. Gather Evidence: Take photos of your injuries, the scene of the attack, and any witnesses’ contact information. This evidence can support your case if you pursue a claim.
4. Consult an Attorney: Navigating California’s dog bite laws can be challenging, especially when insurance companies are involved. An experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney can help build a solid case, negotiate with insurers, and pursue the maximum compensation for your injuries.

Compensation for Dog Bite Victims

If you’ve been injured by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Lost income if you’re unable to work
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disfigurement or scarring
• Emotional trauma

Protecting Your Rights

Dog bite cases can be complex, especially if there are disputes over liability or if the dog owner lacks insurance.

Working with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer familiar with Los Angeles cases is crucial. We’ll fight for your rights to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one have been injured by a dog bite in Los Angeles, don’t wait to take action. Contact our office for a consultation, and let us help you on the road to recovery.