They’ve been called man’s best friends, but dogs bite many Californians every year, sometimes causing serious injuries. Depending on the circumstances, dog bite victims can file a dog bite lawsuit to recover damages from the pet owner or another responsible party. If you were bitten by a dog, seek immediate medical attention, an untreated dog bite can lead to a serious injury or infection and even death if the animal was carrying a potentially fatal disease.
You should also speak with a personal injury attorney who can help you obtain compensation for your injuries. J&Y Law Firm helps injury victims in Los Angeles and throughout the state of California.
Who is liable for a dog bite in Los Angeles?
In order to determine who is responsible for a dog bite, it is necessary to establish who owned the dog. In California, a dog owner is strictly liable for any dog bite regardless of whether he or she failed to protect others from the attack, or had no reason to know the dog was dangerous, provided that the victim was not trespassing or provoking the dog
In addition to the dog owner, other individuals may be held liable including anyone who is responsible for the care or custody of the dog such as a kennel, pound, or animal shelter. A property owner can also be held responsible if he or she allowed the dog onto the property. Similarly, a landlord can be held liable for an animal bite caused by a tenant’s dangerous pet.
Damages for Dog Bites
In the event of a dog bite, determining your legal rights can be complicated. The experienced attorneys at J&Y can ascertain whether you have a legal claim and the number of damages you may be able to recover. These damages depend on a number of factors, including the seriousness of your injuries and whether or not you contributed to the accident. Generally, you may be able to obtain compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damages. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish a dog owner’s reckless or intentional conduct
Contact Our Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer
While homeowners’ insurance usually covers most dog bite accidents, some insurance companies will attempt to offer victims a less-than-fair settlement. It is never in your best interest to accept an offer from an insurance company before you speak to the personal injury attorneys at J&Y. We will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. If the insurer fails to make a fair offer, we will litigate the matter in court. If you were injured in a dog bite accident in California, call our office today at (888) 806-6722 or fill out a contact form for a free evaluation of your case.