What You Should Know When Facing a Dog Bite Case
When it comes to dog bite cases, California enforces the theory of strict liability. Whether a dog bite that occurs in a public place or while the victim is lawfully on private property, the dog owner could be held accountable for any injuries caused. Dog bites can have devastating consequences, and they may require the need for medical attention. No matter how violent the dog bite was, victims can endure physical, emotional, and financial damages.
If you or someone you know has suffered an injury following a dog bite, there may be an opportunity to obtain financial compensation for your damages.
California’s Strict Dog Bite Law
Based on the state’s Civil Code §3342, a canine owner will be held accountable for damages when the following circumstances apply:
- The victim’s injury was caused by the dog bite
- The incident occurred while the victim was lawfully in a public place, or lawfully on private property, including the property of the owner
It should be noted that in some cases this strict liability law does not apply where the canine bite resulted from a police or military dog engaged in its service.
It is also important to note that California’s strict dog bite laws will not apply in cases where the injury was not caused by a direct bite. For instance, if a person suffered a fall in the aftermath of having a dog jump on him or her, the law will not apply. Instead, however, the victim can continue to seek damages by filing a personal injury claim, claiming the dog owner was negligent in controlling or restraining the dog.
Available Damages Following a Dog Bite in California
Victims of dog bites in the State of California are usually entitled to monetary compensation for their grievances. Available damages can include the following:
- Loss of wages
- Emotional distress
- Physical therapy
- Medical costs
- Loss of earning capacity
- Loss of extremities
- Scarring
- Psychological counseling
Additionally, if a victim lost his or her life because of a dog attack, the victim’s family may be entitled to seek damages through a wrongful death claim.
California’s Statute of Limitations
Every state has a statute of limitations that places a strict deadline on when a victim can file a personal injury claim. Since dog bite claims are considered personal injury claims in California, victims have two years from the time of the incident to file a case.
Speak to a Well-Versed Dog Bite Attorney in California
Dog bite cases can have very serious consequences for any victim. If you have recently suffered a dog bite, it is critical that you act quickly and seek the legal support of a skilled personal injury attorney who can defend your right for compensation.
The personal injury attorneys at the Knez Law Group, LLP understand that dog bite victims often undergo emotional and financial distress in addition to their physical suffering. As a result, the firm goes to great lengths to use all resources available to them to help victims obtain the compensation they truly deserve. Seek the counsel of an experienced law firm. Contact the attorneys at the Knez Law Group, LLP for a free case evaluation.
Matthew J. Knez graduated from the University of Redlands in California where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Creative Writing. He went on to pursue his Law Degree at the University of LaVerne, College of Law in Ontario, California. While pursuing his law degree he earned various awards, including CALI Award in Torts and he was on the Dean’s List. Mr. Knez was also a member of the Justice and Immigration Clinic where he worked with people seeking asylum into the United States from countries where they had experienced persecution or threat of persecution. Additionally, Mr. Knez was a member of Law Review where he was an Associate Editor and published a Law Review article on California family custody move-away cases.