Dog bites can cause lasting trauma along with serious injury. Children and the elderly are especially prone to serious dog bites, as they tend to be less able to defend themselves. However, a dog can bite anyone unexpectedly.
If you or your child was attacked by another person’s pet, you should reach out to a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer right away. An experienced personal injury attorney could help you understand your legal options for seeking compensation.
Does California Have a “One-Bite Rule”?
California law does not recognize the so-called “one bite rule.” In California, owners face strict liability if their dog bites someone. Strict liability means that the owner is held responsible for their dog biting someone, even if the dog has no prior history of aggressive behavior.
You can work with a Los Angeles injury attorney to sue a dog owner for a bite whether you are in a public or private space. However, dog owners are not considered responsible if you were trespassing at the time of the bite.
Non-Bite Dog Injuries
If you were injured by a dog that did not bite you, the law is slightly different. In the case of non-bite injuries, you can still sue the dog owner, but you will need to sue under the premise of negligence. You’ll need to prove that the owner was negligent in allowing their dog to injure you.
Non-bite dog injuries can include:
- Being injured while running away from an aggressive dog
- A large dog knocking you or your child over and causing injury
- Deep scratches
Talk to our Los Angeles attorneys if you were injured but not bitten by a dog. We’ll let you know if we think you have a negligence case.
Compensation in a Dog Bite Injury Lawsuit in Los Angeles
Injuries from a dog bite can cause both physical and mental trauma. Disfiguration, scars, infection, and even death can result. Medical bills can pile up after a dog bite, leaving you and your family possibly drowning in debt while trying to deal with your recovery.
A skilled lawyer could help you recover several types of compensation in a dog bite lawsuit, including:
- Medical bills
- Reconstructive surgery
- Rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
If your child or other loved one was tragically killed by an aggressive dog, you may be able to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. We know it can be difficult to think about calling a lawyer when you’re grieving, but the compensation you can get should at least help you take the money stress off your shoulders.
The statute of limitations after a dog bite injury or death is two years. It’s best to contact us as soon as possible for the best shot at maximum compensation, though.
Meet with a Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured by someone else’s pet, call a Lost Angeles dog bite lawyer from Sepulveda Sanchez Law today. We will be happy to listen to your case and advise you on your next steps in a complimentary consultation.