Salinas is home to many different types of delivery services, from FedEx to GrubHub, some of which even have physical locations throughout the city. Statistics continuously show us that delivery drivers face a very serious threat every year: attacks from dogs. In fact, in 2019, statistics from the USPS showed that 5,803 U.S. Postal Service employees were attacked by dogs nationwide that year. In Salinas and throughout the rest of California, this continues to be a reality for many delivery drivers who never expected it.
At Maison Law, our attorneys represent those who have fallen victim to serious dog bite attacks throughout Salinas and beyond. We understand how overwhelming it can be to face an attack from a dog and the pain it can cause you. You should never have to worry about the bills that pile up against you associated with your bite injuries. We are here to help you every step of the way as you face the complex legal system. Please do not hesitate to contact our Salinas dog bite accident lawyers today for a no-obligation consultation.
Why Dog Bite Incidents Involving Delivery Drivers Occur
Delivery drivers are more susceptible to dog bite incidents than many other types of employees. This is due to the inherent nature of their job where they find themselves bringing products onto individual’s properties where a dog could be located. Here are some of the basic reasons why delivery drivers are bitten by dogs every year in Salinas:
- Frequent visits to various homes throughout a day
- Dogs see delivery drivers as an intruder on their property
- Careless interactions with dogs when delivery drivers are trying to rush from one job to the next
- Lack of training or education for delivery drivers concerning dog interactions
- Lack of equipment needed to protect themselves from dogs
Determining Liability When a Deliver Driver is Bit by a Dog in Salinas
If you are a delivery driver who was bitten by a dog while making a delivery in Salinas, you may be left with a wide array of questions. One of the most important things that you must do to move forward after one of these incidents is to receive medical attention for your bites. After this, determining liability is crucial if you wish to move forward with a personal injury claim. But who is liable for your dog bite attack?
A Dog Owner: The owner of a dog is almost always liable for the bite or attack that their dog initiates. This is true in California no matter if the dog has already bitten in the past or this is the first time that the dog bit someone.
A Caretaker: Perhaps somebody aside from the dog’s owner was watching the dog when the incident occurred. If the caretaker did not have the dog leashed or they allowed it out of their sight at the time of the incident, they could also be liable for an attack.
A Delivery Company: The victim’s employer could also be held liable for the bite. If you were performing your regular job duties at the time of the incident and you were bitten, you could hold a delivery company liable.
A Property Owner: Where the attack took place is important. A property owner could be held liable for your injuries if they knew about a dog’s behavior but did not take preventative measures to ensure your safety.
Should You File a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
Though you could file a workers’ compensation claim through the delivery company that employed you, you should know that all of your damages may not be covered. Your lost wages and medical expenses could be covered through a workers’ comp claim. However, if you want to receive other damages related to your accident and injuries, the best way to receive them is by bringing a personal injury claim against one or more negligent parties.
If you choose to move forward with a lawsuit against responsible parties after you have sustained a dog bite injury, you may be eligible for the following damages:
- Medical expenses you have incurred or expect to incur
- Lost wages and future lost income if you are unable to return to work
- Pain and suffering damages
- Therapy or rehabilitation costs
- Loss of quality of life caused by the incident
No matter what decision you can make, it can be a complicated one based on the circumstances of the attack. This is why it is crucial that you speak with a legal advocate who has handled these cases previously and knows how to help you move forward with ease.
Contact a Salinas Dog Bite Lawyer Immediately
At Maison Law, our team of skilled Salinas dog bite accident lawyers are here for you or your loved one following an unexpected dog attack. No individual should have to worry about suffering a dog attack while on the job or anywhere else. We will help you navigate the complex legal system and gather evidence that can assist you in proving your claim. We will also negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf so that you do not have to deal with the stress alone. Contact us today for a confidential and completely free case review.
