CALIFORNIA DOG BITE ATTORNEY
Award-winning personal injury lawyer fighting for victims of dog bites and animal attacks in California.
Zero Fees Unless We Win
If you or a loved one suffered from a dog bite, the consequences can be tough, covering physical harm, emotional stress, and financial strain. This is where RTM Law comes in. We understand the impact of such injuries and are committed to securing the compensation you deserve.
Liability for dog bite attacks might be shared by the animal’s owner and other parties. Our team will thoroughly investigate your case to identify all liable parties, collect evidence of negligence and fault, and ensure you receive rightful compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, or other losses resulting from the animal attack.
At RTM Law, we’re more than just lawyers; we’re dedicated to helping victims of personal injury get the best medical care and highest compensation possible. Our proven track record is a reflection of our dedication and success. Call our California dog bite attorney today for a free case review.
Types of Injuries from Dog Bites and Animal Attacks
- Puncture Wounds
- Cuts and Lacerations
- Bruising and Contusions
- Bone Fractures and Breaks
- Infections (like Rabies and Tetanus)
- Scarring and Disfigurement
- Nerve Damage
- Psychological Impact (including Fear and PTSD)
- Fatalities (in extreme instances)
Defining Animal Bite Cases in Personal Injury
Defining a dog bite in the context of personal injury involves a few key elements:
Physical Injury
The most apparent aspect is the physical harm caused by a dog’s bite. This can range from minor scratches to severe wounds.
Unprovoked Attack
Typically, for a bite to be considered in a personal injury case, the dog must have bitten without provocation. This means the person bitten did not tease, harm, or threaten the dog prior to the attack.
Owner's Liability
The owner’s responsibility is a crucial factor. Depending on local laws, owners might be strictly liable for their dog’s behavior, meaning they are responsible for any harm the dog causes, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior.
Location of the Incident
Where the bite occurred can also play a role. For instance, if the bite happened on public property or while the victim was lawfully on private property, the owner may be more likely to be held liable.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
In addition to physical injuries, dog bites can cause significant emotional and psychological distress, which can be included in personal injury claims.
Legal Considerations
Various jurisdictions have different laws regarding dog bites, including “one-bite” rules or strict liability statutes, which influence how personal injury claims are evaluated and processed.
Understanding these elements is crucial when considering a personal injury case related to a dog bite. Each case is unique and the specific circumstances will determine the legal approach and potential outcomes.
Bitten by a dog?
Our legal team can help.
Waiting will hurt your case.
Call our California dog bite attorney
Free consultation. Available 24/7.
Why Work With RTM Law?
Outstanding Dog Bite Injury Attorneys
Our team consists of expert dog bite injury lawyers, proficient in California’s personal injury law. We leverage years of experience to adeptly manage even the most complex animal bite cases with care and precision.
Personalized Client Focus
At our dog bite injury law firm, we design legal strategies tailored to each client’s unique situation. We ensure your specific concerns and needs are central to your case.
Impressive Success in Settlements
Our California dog bite lawyer has consistently achieved multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for dog bite victims, ensuring both financial security and peace of mind for our clients.
Injured by a dog bite in California?
We can help you file an injury claim.
No fees until we win. Available 24/7.
Bitten by someone's dog?
Our California dog bite attorney can help.
Free consultation. No fees until we win.
Dog Bite California Laws
Dog bite statutes adhere to the strict liability rule in California. This holds a dog’s owner accountable for any harm caused by their dog biting someone in a public area or someone legally on private property, irrespective of the dog’s prior behavior or the owner’s awareness of such behavior.
Under these laws, a dog bite doesn’t need to break the skin to be considered harmful. The California Civil Code states that owners can be liable for injuries caused by their dog, even if the skin isn’t broken.
In the event of a dog bite or attack, California law mandates that the animal be quarantined for a minimum of ten days. This can be done at the owner’s home or a county animal facility, ensuring public safety.
It’s important to note that these regulations apply only if the victim was in a public place or legally on private property, including the property of the dog owner, at the time of the incident.
Handling California Dog Bite Cases:
Our Legal Approach
Comprehensive Case Review
Your first step is a free, no-obligation consultation with our California dog bite lawyer. During this key meeting, we’ll conduct a detailed review of your case and offer a candid assessment of your legal options.
Thorough Investigation and Evidence Collection
We commit ourselves to a meticulous investigation of your dog bite incident. Our combined team of legal and medical experts works tirelessly to gather all crucial evidence, ensuring we craft a strong and convincing case for you.
Skilled Negotiation and Representation
The goal of our California dog bite lawyer is to achieve a fair settlement outside of court, but we’re fully prepared to represent you in trial if necessary. Our expertise in negotiation and legal advocacy is at your service throughout this process.
Responsibility for Dog Attacks in California
In California,liability for dog bites and animal attacks often falls upon:
Dog Owner
In California, the owner of the dog is generally held accountable for their pet’s actions, regardless of the owner’s prior knowledge of the dog’s aggressive nature.
Custodian of the Dog
Responsibility may extend to someone other than the owner if they were in charge of the dog at the time of the incident. This includes dog walkers, pet sitters, or even acquaintances.
Landlords
Real estate owners and managers in California may be liable if the attack occurred on their property and they were aware of the dog’s dangerous tendencies.
Parents of Minor Owners
If a minor owns the dog, their parents might be responsible for any harm or injuries caused on the dog attack victim.
Bitten by a neighbor’s dog
In California?
Free consultation. Available 24/7.
Client Success Stories
Our track record speaks for itself. We are five-star rated on Google!
California Dog Bite Attorney: FAQs
Seek medical attention immediately, report the bite to local animal control, document the incident and your injuries with photos, and gather contact information of witnesses. Then, consult a lawyer to help you file a dog bite injury claim.
The statute of limitations in California is generally two years from the date of the bite. It’s essential to initiate legal action within this period to preserve your right to compensation.
Yes, you can claim compensation if you were lawfully on the property when bitten. The property owner or tenant can be liable, especially if they knew the dog was dangerous.
The same laws apply; however, special considerations are given to children’s cases. Parents or guardians can file a claim on behalf of the child, and courts often consider the greater trauma a dog attack can cause on younger victims.
Damages are calculated based on medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future medical treatment or psychological counseling required. Each case is unique, and a lawyer can help estimate the value of a claim.
Dog bite injury compensation varies widely based on injury severity, incident details, and jurisdiction. On average, settlements range from $29,000 to $65,000 but can go as low as $15,000 or reach hundreds of thousands of dollars. In severe cases like level 5 injuries, settlements may even reach $1,500,000 to $8,000,000. Consult a California dog bite lawyer with experience handling dog bite cases to assess your potential claim value.
In many cases, homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bite liabilities. However, coverage can vary based on the policy and the circumstances of the bite. It’s important to check the specific terms of the insurance policy and consult with a lawyer to understand how insurance may apply to your case.
In California, the owner can still be held liable even if the dog has no prior history of aggression or biting. The state’s strict liability law applies regardless of the dog’s previous behavior, focusing on the incident in question.
Our Autism advocacy is personal. RTM Law is dedicated to fighting for individuals with ASD who have experienced dog bites. Our legal team understands the unique challenges that individuals with ASD may face in such situations. We prioritize their well-being, ensuring they receive the necessary care, support, and compensation. Read more about our autism advocacy.
Bitten by a dog?
Our California dog bite attorney can help.
Free consultation. No fees until we win.
Contact a California Dog Bite Lawyer. Free Case Review.
In the aftermath of a dog attack, you need more than just legal representation; you need a team that empathizes with the physical, emotional, and financial burdens you’re facing. With a history of securing substantial victories for our clients in the state of California, we are unrelenting in our commitment to champion your rights and ensure the justice and compensation you’re entitled to.
You don’t have to face this challenging period alone — RTM Law stands as your dependable ally.
Reach out to our California dog bite attorneys now at (855) 786-9467 or fill out our online contact form.
Millions of Dollars Recovered for Accident Victims
Our California personal injury law firm has consistently obtained maximum outcomes and recovered millions for our clients
RTM WINS
$5,000,000
Global Settlement
Trucking Accident
RTM WINS
$2,000,000
Wrongful Death
Auto Collision
RTM WINS
$1,000,000
Global Settlement
Auto v. Truck
RTM WINS
$900,000
Car Accident
Auto v. Auto
RTM WINS
$485,000
Rear End Auto Collision
Involving Mild Brain Injury
RTM WINS
$425,000
Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle Collision
RTM WINS
$425,000
Trip and Fall
Incident at Apartment
Get a Free Consultation
Fill out the form below and tell us more about your case.
We have time for your call.
We can help you
No Fees Unless We Win
Available 24/7
We Help Accident Victims File
a Personal Injury Claim in California
Our personal injury attorneys serve the following locations and more in California:
- Anaheim, CA
- Bakersfield, CA
- Buena Park, CA
- Chula Vista, CA
- Compton, CA
- Costa Mesa, CA
- Dana Point, CA
- Fountain Valley, CA
- Glendale, CA
- Huntington Beach, CA
- Inglewood, CA
- Irvine, CA
- Laguna Beach, CA
- Laguna Hills, CA
- Laguna Niguel, CA
- Long Beach, CA
- Los Angeles, CA
- Mission Viejo, CA
- Newport Beach, CA
- Orange County, CA
- Pasadena, CA
- Riverside, CA
- San Bernardino, CA
- San Clemente, CA
- San Diego, CA
- San Juan Capistrano, CA
- Santa Ana, CA
- Seal Beach, CA
- Torrance, CA
- Tustin, CA
- Visalia, CA
- Vista, CA
- Westminster, CA
Our Locations
RTM Law, APC | Personal Injury Attorney
Santa Ana, CA 92706
(949) 287-4342
RTM Law, APC Personal Injury Attorney
2nd Floor, Bakersfield, CA 93309
(661) 402-3200
RTM Law, APC Personal Injury Attorney
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(323) 990-8853
RTM Law, APC Personal Injury Attorney
Victorville, CA 92395
(760) 278-7810
RTM Law, APC Personal Injury Attorney
San Diego, CA 92108
(858) 330-3314