Imagine taking a peaceful stroll through your neighborhood, only to be suddenly attacked by a neighbor’s dog. The fear, the pain, the shock of the moment — it can all be overwhelming. For many, these attacks leave more than just physical injuries; they bring emotional trauma and a lasting sense of vulnerability.
If you’ve been bitten by a neighbor’s dog in California, you know how quickly your life can change in an instant. The road to recovery may seem daunting, but it’s important to remember — you have the right to seek justice and compensation for what you’ve endured. California law firmly supports victims like you, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
In this blog, we’ll explore how you can claim damages for dog bite injuries, what you need to know about the legal process, and how an experienced dog bite injury attorney can guide you through it all.
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California Dog Bite Law: Strict Liability for Dog Owners
California follows a strict liability rule when it comes to dog bites. This means that an owner is responsible for injuries caused by their pet, regardless of whether it has shown aggressive behavior in the past. Even if the dog has never bitten anyone before, the owner can still be held liable for the damages caused by the attack.
This law is crucial for victims because it eliminates the need to prove negligence or prior knowledge of the dog’s aggressive tendencies. If you’ve been attacked by a neighbor’s dog while lawfully on their property (even with a beware of dog sign) or in a public space, the owner can be held responsible for the injuries you’ve sustained.
Damages for Dog Bite Injuries: What You Can Recover
Victims can claim several types of compensation, depending on the extent of the injuries and the impact on their lives. These can cover both economic and non-economic losses, which include:
Medical Expenses
One of the most immediate costs following a dog attack is medical care. These can cover doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation. Keep thorough records of all your medical expenses to ensure you receive the full amount you are owed.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for lost income. This includes time off work for medical treatment, recovery, or any long-term disability.
Pain and Suffering
Dog bite victims often experience significant emotional and psychological distress. This non-economic damage compensates for the mental anguish, fear, anxiety, and trauma that victims endure.
Property Damage
If personal items were damaged during the dog attack, such as clothing or glasses, you could include the costs to replace them in your claim.
Future Medical Costs
In some cases, the injuries from being attacked by a neighbor’s dog may require ongoing treatment or future medical procedures, such as physical therapy or reconstructive surgery. Factor these future expenses into your claim for damages for dog bite injuries.
Proving Liability and Fault in a Dog Bite Case
In California, proving fault in a dog bite injury claim is relatively straightforward, again, due to the state’s strict liability laws. The victim only must prove that the dog bit them while they were in a public place or lawfully on private property. Once these conditions are met, the owner is automatically liable for the damages.
However, there are a few exceptions. If the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog when the attack occurred, the owner might not be held liable. This is why it’s critical to consult with a dog bite lawyer who can evaluate the specifics of your case and build a strong personal injury claim.
Understanding Insurance in a Dog Attack
In many cases, homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bite injuries. This can be beneficial for victims, as insurance companies are typically the ones who will pay out claims. However, dealing with adjusters can be challenging, and their goal is often to minimize the amount of money you receive.
An attorney or law firm specializing in dog bite cases can help you manage insurance negotiations and ensure that you are not pressured into accepting a low settlement. Victims often face pushback from insurers that try to reduce payouts or claim that the victim was at fault.
Whether it’s negotiating with the insurance company or preparing to take the case to court, having legal representation can significantly improve your chances of receiving full compensation. An attorney will stand up for your rights and make sure you receive the full compensation you are entitled to for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages for dog bite injuries.
Victim of a Dog Bite Attack?
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If you’ve been attacked by a neighbor’s dog in California, know that we are here to help.
The experienced attorneys at RTM Law Firm are here to help you claim the compensation you deserve and file a lawsuit if needed. Our team will guide you through each step, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the maximum compensation.
Call us today to get a free case review. No fees until we win.
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We Help Accident Victims File
a Personal Injury Claim in Bakersfield, CA
Our Bakersfield personal injury attorneys handle a wide range of personal injury claims in several areas, including:
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✔ Belsera
✔ Campus Park
✔ Casa Loma
✔ East Bakersfield
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