Maison Law can help you through the claims process after you’ve been injured by a dog bite in Redding. There’s no situation that’s more unfortunate than being bitten by a dog. Yet, no matter how familiar you are with the dog or how friendly it seems, the wrong conditions can leave you or someone you care about injured. Our team will be there to help you through the next steps. Set up a free consultation today to learn more.
Should I Get a Lawyer After a Dog Bite?
Dog bites don’t only happen in other cities—they happen right here in Redding. Maybe you were walking along Cypress Avenue, visiting a friend in Shasta View, or enjoying a backyard barbecue when a dog lunged unexpectedly. Most dogs are friendly, but even the nicest dog can bite if startled or threatened. Sometimes the bite is minor—a scratch or bruise. Other times, it leads to stitches, doctor visits, or time away from work.
So should you get a lawyer? It depends–if the bite caused little more than a scratch and didn’t cost you anything, legal help may not be necessary. But if you’re dealing with medical bills, lost income, or long-term injuries, it’s worth talking to our team Here’s how we help:
- Review exactly what happened and why
- Figure out who is legally responsible under California law
- Explain the types of financial support you may be able to claim
Dog bites can turn your day upside down in seconds. Knowing your rights is the first step toward regaining a sense of control—and that starts with the information and evidence you can get.
What Information Should I Try to Get for My Dog Bite Claim?
California law is usually on your side after a dog bite, but that doesn’t mean things are automatic. What really makes a case strong is the evidence. The more information you can get, the easier it is to show exactly what happened and how it’s affected your life. Some of the most helpful pieces of evidence include:
- Medical records and bills – From your ER visit to follow-up care, prescriptions, or therapy, these documents link your injuries to the bite itself.
- Dog and owner information – Try to get as much information you can about the dog and its owner. If you can, ask for the owner’s insurance information. If they’re not around, note as much as you can about the breed of the dog and anything else you can remember.
- Pictures and videos – Pictures and videos of injuries, the dog, or the location—like a neighborhood street in Enterprise or a trail in Caldwell Park—help tell the story visually. That makes it harder for an insurance company to try to minimize what you’ve been through.
- Incident reports – You should always call animal control or police to help at the scene, and their report supports your claim. If no official report exists, write down the details while they’re fresh.
- Witness statements – Anyone who saw the bite can provide a helpful perspective. A simple note with their name and contact info often works.
- Damaged clothing or items – Torn clothing, broken glasses, or other damaged items may seem minor, but they help show the bite’s full impact on you.
Collecting evidence can feel overwhelming when you’re just trying to get away from the dog that’s just bit you. In fact, your top priority should be your safety. At the same time, having the right evidence and information is going to be important for the claims process.
How Does California Law Treat Dog Bites?
When it comes to dog bites, California follows what’s called “strict liability.” With that, the dog’s owner is usually responsible for the injuries and other damage that comes about because of the bite, even if the dog has never acted aggressively before. Further, you don’t have to show negligence, you only need to show:
- The dog bit you
- You were in a public place or lawfully on private property
There are exceptions—like if you were trespassing or provoking the dog—but most situations fall under strict liability. Whether the bite happens at home, on a neighborhood street, or in one of Redding’s parks, the owner is generally responsible for the costs that follow. And with a dog bite, those costs can be heavy.
What Damages Can I Recover With a Dog Bite Claim?
Dog bites aren’t just about the physical injury—they can affect your emotions, your daily routine, and even your finances. A legal claim—whether through insurance or a lawsuit— can help cover these losses. Known as your “damages”, a claim for a dog bite usually covers things like:
- Medical expenses, both now and in the future for permanent injuries or scarring
- Lost income or a loss of earning potential
- Repair/replacement costs for torn clothes, broken glasses, or other personal items damaged in the bite.
- Pain and suffering for the physical pain and emotional stress the bite caused.
- Emotional distress for any anxiety, fear, or discomfort around dogs that might linger after the bite.
- Reduced quality of life if you can no longer enjoy normal activities, like going on walks, visiting parks, or playing with your own dog.
Remember, you only have two years from the date of the bite to file your claim. Information can disappear quickly, so it’s important to not wait around.
Where Do Dog Bites Usually Happen in Redding?
Dog bites can really happen just about anywhere, but some spots tend to be more common than others. Certain neighborhoods, parks, or busy streets see bites more often—sometimes because dogs get startled, other times because they slip loose from a yard or leash. Knowing where bites frequently happen doesn’t make accidents impossible, but it can help you stay aware and take precautions. Here’s where to be more aware:
- Homes – The vast majority of dog bites happen at a friend’s or neighbor’s house with a dog that seemed friendly until it lashed out.
- Parks and trails – Spots like Riverfront Trail or Cypress Park bring together dogs and people. A startled dog can turn a peaceful walk into a painful incident.
- Dog parks – Shasta Dog Park and local off-leash areas are great for dogs but can become chaotic if pets aren’t well-socialized.
- Neighborhood streets – Dogs escaping yards or leashes in South Redding or Lake Redding can bite in the middle of an ordinary day.
- Public spaces – Sidewalks, shopping areas, or community events sometimes lead to bites if owners aren’t careful.
Knowing where bites are likely can help you stay cautious—but accidents can still happen anywhere, which is why understanding your legal options is key. Our team can guide you through the process and help you get better.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the bite happened on city property?
You can still file a claim, but government-owned spaces can have shorter deadlines and extra rules. Our team can guide you through the process.
Can I still file a claim if I provoked the dog accidentally?
Even if the dog reacted to something you did, you may still have a claim. Each case is different, so it’s best to get advice quickly.
Do all dog bite injuries need stitches to qualify?
No. Even minor bites can result in a valid claim if they caused medical treatment, lost work, or emotional stress.
Maison Law Helps Dog Bite Victims in Redding
Dog bites are sudden, painful, and stressful—but you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. At Maison Law, we help people in Redding who’ve been bitten by a dog, whether the attack happened at home, on a neighborhood walk, or in one of our parks. We’ll explain your options, handle the legal work, and make sure your story is heard. From evidence collection to filing your claim, we aim to make the process clear, straightforward, and focused on helping you move forward.
