Stockton Dog Bite Lawyer
If you or someone you love received an injury from an aggressive dog, you might be eligible to receive compensation form its owner. Animal owners are always responsible for their pets and must ensure they do not cause harm to others. Animal attack cases can be complex, and the civil court system is challenging to navigate. Experienced personal injury attorneys understand this process better than anyone. A qualified Stockton dog bite lawyer is knowledgeable of the law’s ins and outs and could assist you or a family member in pursuing the damages that you deserve for your losses.
Liability in Aggressive Animal Cases
It is not uncommon for an individual to hesitate in filing a claim after a dog-related injury, especially when the owner is also a friend or loved one. Most do not realize that homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies usually cover injuries from an aggressive animal. A dog bite injury lawyer in Stockton can explain how the process works and help you file a claim for damages.
California Dog Bite Statute
California Civil Code §3342 states that a dog owner is liable for any damages someone suffers because of their pet. A seasoned attorney could help determine whether your injuries were caused by the dog owner’s negligence and calculate any damages you may be entitled to recover.
Important Steps to Take after a Dog Bite
When a canine attacks and causes physical and emotional pain and financial losses, you can pursue damages to cover your expenses. If the defendant is someone you know. it is worth noting that liable dog owners rarely pay more than a deductible out of pocket. Important steps to take in the event of a dog attack include:
- Seek medical treatment as soon as possible
- Collect information about the dog that bit you, such as an address, breed, age, etc.
- Report the incident to animal control or a police agency
- Collect evidence of your injury and expenses, including pictures and copies of bills
Taking these steps after being bitten by aggressive dog will help an attorney in Stockton present the best case to the insurance company and a jury if needed.
Do Not Deal Directly with Insurance Agencies after a Canine Attack
When dogs bite, attack, or otherwise cause harms, their owner is usually liable for any injuries the animal causes. However, it is never a good idea for you to work with insurance agencies on your own. Insurance agents typically strive to get you to admit fault in order to avoid any payouts. A Stockton canine attack lawyer knows how these agencies work and can handle any communication with insurance companies to prevent them from minimizing the compensation they owe you.
Contact a Stockton Dog Bite Attorney for Help
A dog attack is a traumatic experience. If you or someone you love was harmed by an aggressive canine, call a Stockton dog bite lawyer right away for a consultation. They can help you determine liability and pursue the compensation you deserve for your losses.
