Understanding California’s Dog Bite Laws
California operates under one of the nation’s strictest dog bite liability statutes. Under Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are automatically responsible for injuries their pets cause to others, whether the incident occurs on public property or when the victim is lawfully on private property. This strict liability approach means you don’t need to prove the dog had a history of aggression or that the owner was negligent.
The law covers all dog-related injuries, not just bites. Victims may be able to recover compensation for injuries caused by dogs jumping, knocking them down, or scratching them. Property owners may also face liability under premises liability theory if they knew of a dangerous dog on their property and failed to take reasonable precautions to protect visitors.
Common Injuries From Dog Attacks
Dog bite injuries often require extensive medical treatment and can result in permanent scarring or disfigurement. The force of a dog’s bite can cause deep puncture wounds, lacerations, and tissue damage that extends far beyond what’s visible on the surface. Large dogs can exert hundreds of pounds of pressure per square inch, potentially breaking bones and damaging muscles, tendons, and nerves.
Children frequently suffer more severe injuries because of their smaller stature and natural tendency to interact with dogs at face level. Facial injuries are particularly concerning as they may require multiple reconstructive surgeries and can leave lasting emotional scars alongside physical ones. In the most serious cases, victims may suffer catastrophic injuries that require long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
Types of Damages Available
Dog bite victims may be able to pursue compensation for various damages resulting from their injuries:
Medical expenses, including emergency room visits, surgeries, and ongoing treatment. Lost wages and reduced earning capacity if injuries prevent returning to work. Pain and suffering compensation for physical discomfort and emotional distress. Scarring and disfigurement, particularly important for visible injuries. Property damage, such as torn clothing or damaged personal belongings. Psychological counseling costs for trauma-related therapy.
Recovery often involves multiple medical treatments, from initial wound care and antibiotics to prevent infection, to reconstructive surgery and physical therapy for mobility issues.
Insurance Coverage and Settlement Negotiations
Most dog bite cases are resolved through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. These policies typically include liability coverage for injuries caused by pets, though some insurers exclude certain breeds or have specific limitations. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by questioning the severity of injuries or claiming the victim provoked the attack.
We thoroughly investigate each case to build the strongest possible claim. This includes gathering medical records, witness statements, and photographic evidence of injuries and the incident scene. We also work with medical professionals to document the full extent of injuries and their long-term impact on your life.
Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s interests, not yours. Having legal representation levels the playing field and ensures you receive fair consideration for your claim. We handle all communications with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we fight for the compensation you deserve.
The Investigation Process
Building a successful dog bite case requires thorough investigation and documentation. We examine the circumstances surrounding the attack, including whether the dog had previous aggressive incidents and if local leash laws were violated. Animal control reports and veterinary records can provide valuable evidence about the dog’s behavior and medical history.
We also investigate the property owner’s role in the incident. If the attack occurred on someone else’s property, we examine whether they knew about the dog’s dangerous propensities and failed to warn visitors or take appropriate safety measures. These cases can involve complex liability issues similar to other slip and fall incidents where property owners have a duty to maintain safe conditions for visitors.
Choose Big Joe Law for Your Dog Bite Case
At Big Joe Law, we bring real-world experience and genuine understanding to every case we handle. Big Joe’s background running a successful mortgage brokerage with over sixty 5-star reviews demonstrates our commitment to client service and results. This same dedication drives our approach to personal injury law, where we’ve secured millions in settlements for our clients.
We know what it’s like to face insurance companies without proper legal representation. Big Joe has lived in the San Fernando Valley his entire life and has personally dealt with insurance claim challenges, giving us unique insight into the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts. This experience, combined with our legal knowledge, enables us to build compelling cases that resonate with judges and juries. The experienced team at Big Joe Law is ready to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 818-821-0026 or through our contact form for a free consultation about your dog bite case.
