Dog bites are distressing and frequently result in serious injuries, emotional distress, and medical expenses. Indeed, you may be entitled to compensation for these damages if you or a loved one have suffered a dog bite. However, navigating the intricacies of a dog bite case can be challenging without professional guidance. Contact an experienced dog bite lawyer who can help you establish liability, build a strong case, and earn a favorable outcome.
The legal experts at Davanna Law Firm will provide essential legal advice on how to win a dog bite lawsuit. Residents in California can turn to Davana Law’s legal team to handle their dog bite claim and advocate for their just compensation. With more than 500 successful cases under our belt, we’re confident we can help you find closure and win your case. To speak with a dog bite lawyer, call (818) 501-1055 or visit our website to receive a free consultation.
California Dog Bite Legal Definition
California defines a dog bite as an instance in which a dog uses its teeth to grab an individual (or closes its jaw around them). Even if the dog does not break the victim’s skin, the law still considers that person “bitten.” Moreover, instances wherein a dog simply grabs clothing with its mouth will still count as a bite should the victim fall and suffer injuries.
Furthermore, dog owners are liable for bites in public spaces or on private property—including the owner’s residence—as long as the victim is authorized to be there. However, since trespassers are NOT lawfully on the property, dog owners are typically not found liable for those bites.
What to Do If You Suffer a Bite
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After a dog bite accident, seek immediate medical attention for your injuries. Not only is this essential for your health, but medical records also establish a clear link between the incident and your injuries, which is crucial for your case.
- Report the Incident
Notify authorities, including local animal control and law enforcement agencies, about the bite. Doing so creates an official record and can help identify a dog with previous instances of aggressive behavior.
- Document the Incident
While they are fresh in your memory, write down relevant details—the date, time, and location—about the dog bite incident. Include the dog owner’s information if available. Take photographs of the injuries, the incident’s location, and visible signs of neglect or lack of control on the dog owner’s part.
- Consult an Experienced Dog Bite Attorney
Navigating the legal complexities of a dog bite case is challenging, especially when healing from your injuries. Hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer is essential. An attorney with expertise in dog bite cases will help you understand your rights, gather evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and build a strong case on your behalf.
What Your Attorney Will Do
- Identify Witnesses
Your attorney will ask whether there were witnesses to the incident and then try to locate them. Eyewitness testimonies can substantiate your claim and back up your account of what transpired.
- Establish Liability
In dog bite cases, liability is a critical factor. Yet every state has different laws regarding dog owners’ liability. California is a strict liability state, holding dog owners culpable for any injuries their dogs cause, regardless of previous behavior or negligence.
- Prove Negligence or Misconduct
To strengthen your claim, your attorney will investigate whether the dog owner acted in a way that led to the bite incident. For instance, if the owner failed to leash the dog in a public space or ignored previous aggressive behavior, it could be crucial evidence in proving negligence.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies
In many dog bite cases, compensation comes through the owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy. Insurance companies often try to minimize their liability or offer inadequate settlements. An experienced dog bite attorney can skillfully negotiate to ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Why You Need A California Dog Bite Lawyer
Navigating the legal complexities of a dog bite case is challenging, especially while healing from your injuries. Yet the expert dog bite attorneys at Davana Law have the professional experience to effectively guide you through each stage of the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Let us help you pursue the compensation you deserve: call (818) 501-1055 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.
