Maison Law helps dog bite victims in California by answering questions they have about the legal process. The main question many clients have involves how much compensation (known as “damages”) they can get when they file a claim. There’s no easy answer, since every situation is different. However, working with our team can help you get the most out of the process. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more.
How Much Compensation Can You Get After a Dog Bite in California?
Nobody wants to be in a situation where they’re injured in a dog bite, but it’s among the most common types of incidents we see. At the same time, every dog bite case is different, and the compensation you can get depends on several key factors:
- Extent of your injuries – The severity of your injuries plays a major role in your claim’s value. Serious bites that require extensive medical care or leave lasting scars can lead to higher compensation. Keep detailed medical records and receipts to support your case.
- Emotional trauma – Dog bites cause more than physical harm–they can also leave lasting emotional scars. If you experience fear, anxiety, or emotional distress after the attack, you may be eligible for compensation. Document your emotional struggles and any therapy sessions.
- Impact on your life – If the bite impacts your ability to enjoy your life, take part in activities, or damages your relationships, you may be able to get compensation for reduced quality of life. Testimony from a therapist can strengthen this part of your claim.
- Job impact – If the bite causes you to miss work or leaves you with long-term disabilities, you can claim lost wages or future earning potential.
- Your role – If you are partially at fault for the dog bite (e.g., provoking the dog), your compensation may be reduced. This is based on California’s “comparative negligence” rules.
Remember, you have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a claim. Acting quickly and getting evidence is very important to secure fair compensation. But to actually get this financial support, you have to file a claim.
How Do You Recover Compensation After a Dog Bite in California?
Recovering compensation after a dog bite can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process makes it easier. Legally speaking, a dog bite is just like any other injury in California, in that you have the right to file a claim and recover damages. There’s one big difference though: liability is always going to fall on the dog’s owner under the state’s “strict liability” rule.
So, when you file, you have two main options:
- Insurance claim – You can file a claim with the dog owner’s insurance (like homeowners or renters insurance). An adjuster will review your claim and offer a settlement. This process is quicker but often results in low offers that may not cover all your damages.
- Lawsuit – If the insurance settlement isn’t enough, you can file a personal injury lawsuit to seek fair compensation in court. While this takes more time, it can result in higher payouts.
Compensation in a dog bite claim, also known as “damages,” usually involves things like:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages or future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Even with strict liability, your damages aren’t automatically granted–you’ll need a strong case. That’s where having legal support can make all the difference.
How Can I Strengthen My Dog Bite Claim?
To build a strong claim and recover compensation after a dog bite, take these steps:
- Get to safety and find medical care – Take care of your health by seeing a doctor right away. Even small bites can lead to infections, and medical records will support your claim.
- Report the incident to animal control – Call your local animal control or police about the bite so they can investigate and document the incident.
- Gather information – Get the dog owner’s name and contact information, if you can. If possible, get witness details too.
- Document things – Document your injuries, the scene of the bite, and anything else relevant, like the dog itself.
- Stick to treatment – Some injuries might get worse over time, so continue seeing your doctor and keep all records of treatment.
- Watch your statements – Avoid making statements to the dog owner or their insurance company that could weaken your case.
If you’re too injured to handle everything on your own, don’t worry. Our team is here to guide you, gather evidence, and make sure your claim is as strong as possible. Contact us today for a free consultation
