Bitten or attacked by a dog in California? California law holds dog owners responsible for most bite injuries, even if the dog never bit anyone before. Our Los Angeles dog bite lawyers help victims and families recover the costs of medical care, scarring, lost income and emotional trauma. Free consultation, 24/7. Call (855) 339-8879. Se habla español.

California’s Dog Bite Law: Strict Liability

California Civil Code § 3342 makes a dog owner strictly liable when their dog bites someone who is in a public place or lawfully on private property, including the owner’s own home. “Strict liability” means you generally do not have to prove the owner was careless or knew the dog was dangerous. California does not follow the “one free bite” rule.

The statute has limited exceptions, such as certain police and military dogs performing official duties, and it does not protect people who are trespassing. Whether an exception applies depends on the facts, which is one reason to speak with a lawyer early.

Injuries That Are Not Bites

Not every dog attack involves a bite. A dog may knock down a cyclist, jogger or older adult, causing fractures, head injuries or other serious harm. Section 3342 covers bites only, but these victims can still bring claims based on negligencia (for example, violating a leash law) or the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s dangerous behavior.

Who Can Be Held Responsible?

• The dog’s owner — the primary responsible party under Civil Code § 3342.
• Landlords and property managers — in some cases, when they knew a tenant’s dog was dangerous and had the ability to remove it or prevent the harm.
• Dog walkers, kennels, groomers or sitters — when the dog was in their care and they failed to control it.
• Businesses — that allowed a known dangerous dog on their premises.

Many dog bite claims are paid by the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. You are usually dealing with an insurance company, not the dog owner personally.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

• Heridas punzantes profundas y laceraciones
• Infections, including the risk of rabies exposure
• Nerve damage and loss of hand or finger function
• Facial injuries and permanent scarring requiring plastic surgery
• Broken bones from being knocked down
• Post-traumatic stress and fear of dogs, especially in children

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Depending on the facts of your case, compensation may include:

• Emergency care, surgery, plastic surgery and future medical treatment
• Lost wages and reduced ability to earn
• Dolor y sufrimiento
• Cicatrices y desfiguración
• Emotional distress and counseling costs

Every case is different. The value of a claim depends on the severity of the injuries, the medical treatment needed, available insurance and other factors.

What to Do After a Dog Bite

1. Get medical care right away. Dog bites carry a high risk of infection.
2. Report the bite to your local animal control agency or police department.
3. Get the owner’s name, address and insurance information, and the dog’s vaccination status.
4. Fotografíe sus lesiones, torn clothing and the location of the attack.
5. Collect witness names and phone numbers.
6. Do not give a recorded statement to the owner’s insurance company before speaking with a lawyer.

¿Cuánto tiempo tiene para presentar la solicitud?

In California, most personal injury claims, including dog bite claims, must be filed within dos años of the injury (Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1). If a government agency may be responsible, such as a city-owned dog or a dog on public housing property, you may need to file a government claim within seis meses. Different rules can apply to minors. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible so you do not lose your rights.

Dog Bite Claims Involving Children

Children are the most frequent victims of serious dog bites, and their injuries are often to the face and neck. A child’s claim may include the cost of future scar revision surgery and counseling. A parent or guardian brings the claim on the child’s behalf, and in California a court generally must approve a settlement for a minor.

Why Call Downtown LA Law Group

Downtown LA Law Group represents injury victims across California from our office at 540 S. Santa Fe Ave. in downtown Los Angeles. We investigate the attack, deal with the insurance company, and explain your options in plain language, in English or Spanish. Ask us how our contingency fee and case costs work during your free consultation.

Dog Bite FAQs

Do I have to prove the dog was dangerous?

Usually not for a bite. Under Civil Code § 3342, the owner can be liable even if the dog never showed aggression before.

What if the dog belongs to a friend or family member?

Claims are typically paid by the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, not out of their pocket.

What if I was partly at fault?

California uses comparative fault. If you were partly responsible, for example by provoking the dog, your recovery may be reduced but not necessarily eliminated.

Can I still file if I didn’t go to the hospital right away?

Yes, but delays in treatment can make a claim harder to prove. See a doctor as soon as possible.

Talk to a Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer Today

Llame a (855) 339-8879 o request a free case review. Available 24/7. Se habla español.

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