A Brief Summary of the Following Page
- Strict Liability: California law holds dog owners liable for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of the dog’s previous aggression or owner’s awareness.
- Exceptions: Owners may not be liable if the victim was trespassing, provoked the dog, or was involved in criminal activity during the incident.
- Non-Bite Injuries: Owners can be held accountable for non-bite injuries if they result from the owner’s negligence, such as not properly controlling the dog.
- Legal Assistance: A dog-bite lawyer can provide legal expertise, negotiation skills, court representation, and emotional support to victims, helping them seek compensation for their injuries.
- To schedule a consultation about your product liability case, call us at 714-241-4444 or fill out our contact form.
Dog bites can have devastating consequences, causing physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardships for victims. From painful wounds and scarring to psychological distress and medical bills, the aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming. In California, dog owners are held responsible for the actions of their pets, and victims may be entitled to compensation for their damages. However, navigating the legal process to seek justice and recover damages can be complex and daunting, especially for those dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of a dog attack.
At Callahan & Blaine, we understand the profound impact that dog bites can have on victims and their families. With over 40 years of experience and a track record of multi-million dollar settlements, our team of compassionate and skilled attorneys is here to provide the support and representation you need. Let us fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Dog Bite Liability in California
Dogs are often referred to as man’s best friend, but even the most well-behaved canine companion can sometimes bite or injure someone. In California, dog owners can be held liable for injuries caused by their pets under certain circumstances.
CALIFORNIA’S STRICT LIABILITY LAW
California follows a strict liability rule when it comes to dog bites. This means that dog owners are typically held responsible for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of whether the dog has shown any previous signs of aggression or whether the owner was aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies. As long as the victim was lawfully on public property or on private property with the owner’s permission at the time of the incident, the dog owner can be held liable for any injuries sustained.
EXCEPTIONS TO STRICT LIABILITY
While California’s dog bite law imposes strict liability on dog owners in most cases, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if the victim was trespassing on private property at the time of the incident, the dog owner may not be held liable for any injuries caused by their pet. Additionally, if the victim provoked the dog or was engaged in criminal activity at the time of the incident, the dog owner may also be able to avoid liability.
OWNER’S LIABILITY FOR NON-BITE INJURIES
In California, while the strict liability statute regarding dog bites does not extend to injuries caused by dogs that did not actually bite, victims still have potential avenues for compensation. For instance, if a dog causes an accident by attacking a bicycle wheel or chasing a motorcyclist, strict liability may not apply. However, victims may still be eligible for compensation if they can demonstrate that their injuries resulted from the dog owner’s negligence. For example, if a dog scratches a child’s eye while jumping on them during sidewalk play, the victim’s parents could pursue legal action by proving that the owner failed to exercise reasonable care in controlling the dog, such as by not keeping it on a leash or in a fenced-in yard.
What Damages Can You Recover in a Dog Bite Claim?
In a dog bite case, victims may be entitled to various types of damages to compensate for their injuries and losses.
ECONOMIC DAMAGES
Economic damages have a specific monetary value and typically include medical expenses. These can encompass costs associated with emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, doctor’s appointments, medications, and rehabilitative treatments. Victims may also be compensated for future medical expenses if their injuries require ongoing care or treatment. Additionally, economic damages may cover lost wages or income if the victim is unable to work due to their injuries.
NON-ECONOMIC
Non-economic damages are less tangible but equally important. These can include pain and suffering, which encompasses physical pain as well as emotional distress or mental anguish caused by the attack. Victims may also receive compensation for disfigurement or scarring resulting from the dog bite, as well as loss of enjoyment of life if their injuries impact their ability to participate in activities they once enjoyed. In cases of severe injuries or permanent disability, victims may be awarded damages for loss of consortium, which compensates for the loss of companionship or support from a spouse or family member.
How Does a Dog Bite Lawyer in Santa Ana Help?
A Santa Ana dog bite lawyer plays a crucial role in helping victims of dog attacks navigate the legal process and seek compensation for their injuries. Here is how they can help:
- Legal expertise: Lawyers have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding dog bites in California. They can assess the unique circumstances of each case and advise victims on their legal rights and options.
- Negotiation skills: Lawyers are skilled negotiators who can engage with insurance companies and the opposing party on behalf of their clients. They strive to reach a fair settlement that adequately compensates the victim for their injuries and losses.
- Court representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, a dog bite lawyer is prepared to take the case to court. They will advocate for their client’s rights in front of a judge and jury, presenting evidence and arguments to support their claim.
- Emotional support: Dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite can be traumatic. A compassionate Santa Ana dog bite lawyer provides support and guidance to victims throughout the legal process, offering reassurance and helping them navigate challenging situations.
By enlisting the help of a dog bite lawyer, victims can focus on their recovery while their legal advocate works tirelessly to pursue the compensation they deserve.
Filing a Dog Bite Claim? Contact Callahan & Blaine Today
Dog bite incidents can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships for victims. Seeking legal assistance is crucial to ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses. With the help of experienced attorneys like those at Callahan & Blaine, victims can navigate the complexities of dog bite claims and pursue the justice and compensation they need to recover and move forward with their lives.
Do not hesitate to reach out to Callahan & Blaine for dedicated legal representation. With over 40 years of experience and a proven track record of success in personal injury cases, our attorneys have the knowledge, skills, and resources to effectively advocate for your rights. Contact Callahan & Blaine today for a consultation, and let us help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve. Visit our website and complete our contact form, or call 714-241-4444.
