If you’ve been injured by a dog in California, understanding your rights is crucial. A qualified dog bite lawyer in California can help you navigate the legal process, establish liability, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. California’s laws strongly protect victims, but success in these cases often depends on timely action and proper legal guidance.
California’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
Under California Civil Code §3342, dog owners are strictly liable when their dogs bite or injure someone in public or lawfully on private property. This means that, unlike many other states, victims do not need to prove the owner’s negligence — liability exists automatically once the bite occurs.
This strict liability rule reflects the state’s commitment to public safety and accountability. Even if the dog had never shown aggression before, the owner is still responsible for the victim’s injuries.
For additional legal reference, see the California Legislative Information portal.
What To Do After a Dog Bite Incident
Immediate action can make or break your case. Follow these essential steps after being bitten:
- Get Medical Treatment: Seek professional care right away, even for minor wounds, to prevent infection and create a medical record of your injuries.
- Collect Information: Identify the dog’s owner, request contact and insurance details, and note the dog’s description and location.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the injury, surroundings, and any visible warnings (or lack thereof).
- Report the Attack: File a report with your local animal control agency or county health department to establish an official record.
- Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer in California: An experienced attorney can assess your case, handle insurance negotiations, and ensure your claim is properly filed.
For reporting procedures, you can consult the California Department of Public Health Dog Bite Reporting Guidelines.
Proving Liability in a Dog Bite Case
Although strict liability simplifies the process, your dog bite attorney will still need to demonstrate that:
- The dog was owned by the defendant.
- The bite occurred in a public place or while you were lawfully on private property.
- The bite directly caused your injury.
Evidence such as medical records, photos, witness statements, and animal control reports all help strengthen your claim.
Common Defenses Used by Dog Owners
Dog owners and insurance companies sometimes attempt to deny responsibility using legal defenses such as:
- Trespassing: Claiming the victim was unlawfully on the property.
- Provocation: Alleging that the victim provoked or aggravated the dog.
- Police or Military Dogs: Exemptions may apply if the dog was performing lawful duties.
A skilled dog bite lawyer can counter these defenses and protect your rights through strong evidence and testimony.
The Impact of Dog Bites on Victims
Dog bites can cause serious physical injuries, including lacerations, infections, nerve damage, or scarring. Beyond the physical harm, many victims experience emotional trauma such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress, especially in children.
California law allows victims to seek compensation for both physical and emotional suffering, emphasizing rehabilitation and long-term recovery.
Why You Should Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer in California
Working with a specialized dog bite attorney in California ensures that your case is handled professionally from start to finish. Attorneys can:
- Gather and organize crucial evidence.
- Negotiate directly with insurance adjusters.
- File and manage all legal documentation.
- Represent you in court if the case goes to trial.
Legal representation gives victims a significant advantage when facing insurance companies that often try to minimize claims or deny liability.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog in California, you have the right to hold negligent owners accountable. Hackett Law Firm’s dog bite attorneys are committed to protecting victims and ensuring fair outcomes for every case.
Our experienced legal team handles personal injury and dog bite claims across California, providing compassionate guidance and strong representation from consultation to resolution.
Contact our dog bite attorneys today for a confidential evaluation and take the first step toward justice and recovery.
