Animals of any kind can be unpredictable. What was thought to be a generally sweet and docile animal can wind up attacking a human even when it wasn’t expected. Unfortunately, this is the reality in many fostering and adoption situations every year in California involving dogs. A dog bite can turn an individual’s life upside-down, which is why it is crucial that the victim has options moving forward after an attack.
At Maison Law, we understand how severe a dog attack can be and that it can leave you feeling concerned about your recovery. As you face painful physical injuries, you should not have to worry about the bills that continue piling up against you. If a dog has bitten you or someone you love, you may have options for financial recovery. Contact us today for more information on your claim.
Understanding Assembly Bill Number 588
In 2019, Assembly Bill Number 588 was passed in California regarding the adoption of dogs from shelters. This bill states that all animal shelters and rescues have the responsibility to alert adopters about the bite history of a dog in the past. The individual adopting the dog must sign that they have been made aware of the history of the dog so that they are aware of its history before bringing it into their family and community.
Though this bill is a great step forward to prevent dog bites within families and neighborhoods, it has limitations. The bill does not require the shelter to disclose information about an animal that is aggressive if no bite took place. This is why it is imperative that adopting parties check with a shelter about an animal before they make a decision.
Penalties When a Shelter Fails to Disclose Information
If a shelter or rescue does not abide by AB588, they could be fined up to $500. Though many shelters believe that dogs only sometimes bite because they are scared or trying to protect their puppies, it is still important that adopters are given this information at all times so that bites can be prevented throughout California.
If the shelter or rescue withheld information and a dog attack occurs after adoption takes place, the shelter could be liable for the resulting damages. Though the owner of a dog would typically be found at fault for this incident, liability can fall onto the shelter if they can prove that they were not given information about a prior dog attack.
Dog bites are especially prominent in attacks involving children and the elderly, putting these parties at particular risk for harm. In some cases, the injuries that result are so catastrophic that they lead to surgeries or even take the lives of those involved. This is why AB588 is a vital bill that can protect families and communities for years to come.
Damages in a Dog Bite Attack
If you were bitten by a dog with a violent history prior to adoption, you may be able to seek damages from the shelter or rescue. These damages are meant to make you feel whole and put you back in a financially stable position if you have been facing immense bills or time away from work. Some of the damages that you may be able to receive after a dog bite attack include the following:
- Repayment of your medical expenses
- Payments for future medical expenses you may be expecting
- Lost wages and future lost income
- Pain and suffering damages
- Punitive damages meant to punish a defendant for their negligent behavior
- Rehabilitation costs
Because a personal injury claim involving a dog attack can be a complex matter, it is especially important that you speak with an attorney who has handled these claims in the past.
Contact a California Dog Bite Lawyer Today
Dog bites are the reason that many people sustain serious injuries and fatalities each year in California. If you were bitten by a dog and believe that one or more parties are to blame, you may be able to recover damages for a variety of aspects.
At Maison Law, we are prepared to walk you through the legal process and work toward the damages you need to get back on your feet. We want you to move forward with a claim without feeling the stress of the legal system on your back. Contact a California dog bite lawyer that you can trust today for a free legal consultation.
