While dogs have earned the nickname “man’s best friend,” the reality in many situations is that they can be anything but friendly. Animal attacks are common, and the resulting injuries are often severe.
If this has happened to you, now is the time to speak with an attorney at Salamati Law. A Long Beach dog bite lawyer can advocate for you through every step of the claims process. Let a Long Beach personal injury lawyer who is skilled in all types of cases, including pedestrian accidents, review your case and advise you on your options.
Why dog attacks happen
Even friendly household pets– without any history of violence– can attack someone under the wrong circumstances, which can include:
- Fear. Many dog bites occur out of fear. Sometimes it is due to sudden movements or unusual surroundings. In other cases, previous abuse could leave a dog living in a constant state of anxiety.
- Illness. Dogs that are unwell are more likely to lash out. Dogs that feel vulnerable are often more defensive.
- Stress. Dogs that are under stress are more likely to bite. Stress could result from severe weather, lack of food, or the presence of other animals.
In California, the motivation of the attack does not play a role in your personal injury case. Your Long Beach dog bite attorney can help you pursue your case regardless of the circumstances surrounding the bite.
Who is liable for a dog bite?
There are two ways a state can approach liability for a dog bite. Some states have adopted the “negligence” standard. Under this, an owner is only liable if they knew the animal was dangerous and failed to take appropriate measures to prevent an attack. Other states have adopted a “strict liability” approach. Under this, it is unnecessary to prove that the dog owner was negligent. California has adopted the latter.
To secure financial compensation, it is necessary to meet two important elements. A dog bite lawyer in Long Beach can help you establish both of these elements– your injury resulted from a dog bite, and you were in a public place or lawfully in a private residence when the attack occurred.
There is no need to show that the dog has previously bitten anyone or was dangerous. Unless there is evidence that you were trespassing or provoked the animal, you may be entitled to compensation with the help of a dog bite attorney in Long Beach.
Damages for a dog bite claim
The extent of your injuries and the amount of time it takes you to recover could play a role in determining your compensation. Your damages may include:
- Past and future medical bills
- Mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Diminished future earning power
- Loss of consortium
- Disfigurement
Long Beach Dog Bite Attorney
With the help of a dog bite lawyer in Long Beach, CA, you could pursue a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit against the owner. If successful, you could receive a monetary award that helps you address these hardships.
At Salamati Law, we are ready to help you pursue your personal injury case following a dog bite. We understand how devastating a dog attack can be, both mentally and physically. If you have been bitten by a dog, now is the right time to seek legal counsel. Call us right away to schedule your free consultation.
