Dog ownership brings joy to millions, but it also comes with serious responsibilities. Unfortunately, a significant number of pet owners fail to take precautions to keep their pets from causing injury to others. Statistics released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that more than 4.5 million dog bite events occur on an annual basis, placing children at an increased risk of scarring, permanent nerve damage, puncture wounds, and lacerations.
If you or someone you love has suffered harm from an aggressive domesticated animal, contact a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer at Salamati Law today. We are prepared to help you pursue justice. Schedule a free consultation today.
Why Choose Salamati Law for Your Dog Bite Case?
When you have been bitten by a dog, choosing an experienced and proactive lawyer can make all the difference. Led by Sean Salamati, our team understands the profound impact it can have on your life – physically, emotionally, and financially. We specialize in personal injury law, particularly dog bite cases, and have a proven track record of securing substantial compensation for our clients. We know how stressful these situations can be, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Understanding Dog Bite Laws in California
Under California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of the animal’s past behavior or whether the owner knew about aggressive tendencies. Even if the dog has never bitten anyone, the owner is still responsible for any injuries it causes, provided it occurred in a public place or while the injured party was lawfully in a private place. This law ensures victims can seek compensation without proving the owner’s negligence.
Despite California’s strict liability laws, defendants often employ various defense strategies to contest liability. These can include denying ownership of the dog, alleging provocation by the victim, or asserting that the victim was trespassing. These defenses highlight the complexity of dog bite litigation and underscore the importance of having a qualified attorney who can help refute the defendant’s arguments.
Common Causes of Dog Bites
Dog bites often occur when threatened or aggravated, such as being teased, hit, or disturbed. Territorial aggression is another common cause, as dogs are naturally protective of their home and family and may attack perceived intruders.
However, there are times when a dog bite can be attributed to the negligence of the dog’s owner. For example, the owner did not adhere to local leash laws or ordinances requiring dogs to be restrained in public places. Other examples of owner negligence include failing to properly supervise the dog, ignoring signs of aggression, and not providing adequate training or socialization for the dog.
No matter the cause, dog bites can result in life-changing, permanently disfiguring injuries. Roughly 1 in 5 dog attack victims will require professional medical care, and approximately 27,000 of those will need reconstructive surgery to recover fully. Dog bites are a common injury, especially for children under 12. If a dog bites a child, the repercussions can be devastating.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
The most common injuries in dog bite claims include the following:
- Deep scarring
- Loss of vision
- Lacerations
- Rabies, MRSA, hepatitis and Pasteurella
Prevention programs–particularly those that center on teaching the dangers of animals – should be targeted at children to reduce dog bite injuries. Further, dog bites tend to be clustered in neighborhoods, and stricter enforcement of dog laws can target these locations.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Incident
Dog bites are frightening, but taking the proper steps immediately after you encounter an aggressive dog is important for your health and building a strong legal case.
Steps to take after a dog bite include the following:
- Get Medical Attention: No matter how minor the bite may seem, getting medical care right away is essential. Dog bites can lead to severe infections and other complications. A healthcare professional can properly clean the wound, provide necessary vaccinations, e.g., tetanus or rabies, and prescribe antibiotics.
- Report the Incident: Report the bite to local authorities.
- Identify the Dog and Its Owner: If possible, obtain information about the dog and its owner, such as the name, address, and contact information, as well as the dog’s vaccination history. However, avoid discussing the incident with the dog’s owner beyond exchanging the necessary information.
- Document Everything: Take photographs of injuries, gather witness statements, and keep records of all medical treatments.
- Contact an Attorney: Contact a skilled personal injury lawyer to discuss your case and legal options. Early legal consultation can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
How to Report a Dog Bite in Los Angeles
If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog in Los Angeles, it is crucial to report the incident to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. For more information and to submit a report, visit the following links:
Compensation for Dog Bite Victims
Anyone who has undergone the trauma of a dog attack understands the importance of fair and reasonable compensation for injuries and damages. When a dog bites someone, the liability coverage provided by the owner’s homeowners insurance policy typically covers expenses.
Insurance coverage for dog bites may cover costs for the following:
- Past, present, and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Diminished earning capacity
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma and distress
- Rehabilitation costs
Can I Sue if Another Animal Bit Me?
You can sue for an animal bite other than a dog bite if it is a domestic animal owned by someone. The same principles of liability apply, and you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Whether it’s a cat, horse, or another domesticated animal, owners are responsible for controlling their pets and preventing them from causing harm.
How Salamati Law Can Help You
As mentioned before, California law is known to favor the victims of dog bites and other animal attacks. Because strict liability applies, if you can establish that a dog bit you, the animal’s owner is required to provide compensation for damages you have sustained. However, establishing the extent of damages in a particular case can be challenging, and that is why the help of a seasoned dog bite attorney can prove invaluable.
At Salamati Law, we are committed to providing dog bite victims with a comprehensive review of the facts of their case and no-nonsense advice about how best to proceed when it comes to securing the compensation they deserve. We will investigate the circumstances of the attack to gather crucial details and evidence. With access to an extensive network of medical experts and support staff, we have the resources to build strong cases for our clients. Our goal is to maximize your financial recovery, whether that is through negotiations or representing you in court if necessary.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney
If you or someone you love has experienced the physical and emotional trauma of a vicious dog attack, consult our team at Salamati Law. We are ready to fight for your rights. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with an experienced Los Angeles dog bite attorney. Since we work on a contingency fee basis, you will not pay attorney’s fees unless we win compensation for your injuries.
