Annually, hundreds of people are involved in dog bite incidents in the state of California. When one of these attacks occurs, victims could be left with life-altering or even fatal injuries. Dog owners should be held liable for the harm that their dog has caused others. Getting back on your feet is of utmost importance after a dog attack, which is why you should have legal help on your side after one of these catastrophic events.
At Maison Law, we represent victims of dog bite attacks throughout California. We will provide you with the information and resources that you need to bring a successful claim if you have sustained injuries in an attack and believe that another party is liable for your injuries. Please do not hesitate to contact us today to find out how we can help you.
Understanding “One Bite” Rules
What is the one-bite rule when it comes to dog bite cases? If a dog has bitten or attacked a person in the past, the owner then knows that a dog is dangerous. An owner is supposed to take precautions to prevent an attack from happening again in the future, or else they can be held liable for a victim’s damages.
California does not abide by a one-bite rule. California follows what is known as strict liability in dog bite cases. This means that an owner will be liable for their dog’s bite even if they took precautions. Under California Civil Code 3342, a dog owner can be held strictly liable for a dog bite when the incident took place in public or where the victim had a right to be.
Why Doesn’t California Follow One Bite Rules?
California believes that an owner should know the specific characteristics of a dog that they own. This means that an owner is being trusted to keep their animal safe, as well as others who may be around the dog under a variety of circumstances. There are certain conditions when an owner should assume that their dog could bite somebody, which include the following:
- The dog is known to have aggressive tendencies around others
- The dog has been trained to attack others
- The dog has previously been treated badly and could lash out quickly at strangers
- The dog is protecting puppies and could lash out at others
Seeking Damages After a Dog Bite Attack
If you have been hurt in a dog attack, you may have taken time to consider what laws apply to dog owners and know that you have rights. You can hold an owner liable for the harm that their dog and their negligence has caused you. As the victim of a dog bite attack, you may be able to claim the following damages:
- Medical bills and future medical expenses related to the bite
- Lost wages associated with lost time at work
- Lost income for the future if you are unable to work
- Pain and suffering/Psychological damages
- Physical therapy
- Scarring or disfigurement damages
Contact a California Dog Bite Lawyer Today
After you have sustained a California dog bite, you may be left with as variety of bills and handfuls of questions regarding your claim. An irresponsible owner should always be held liable for the harm that they have caused you in one of these incidents.
Our California dog bite lawyers at Maison Law are here to help you move forward with a claim after a dog attack. With a hands-on approach and the resources you need to be successful in your claim, we will help you get back on your feet. We offer you a free and completely confidential case consultation during these difficult times. Please contact us today for more information on your claim.
