California’s Strict Liability in Dog Bite Injury Cases
Many people consider California to be an idyllic place to own a family pet, particularly a dog. With near-perfect weather year-round and many scenic places to visit and enjoy, pet owners and their dogs have an abundance of opportunities to play and explore. Although many studies indicate that owning a dog can be very good for the health and well-being of an owner, a dog can sometimes be detrimental to the health and safety of others. Sadly, unwarranted dog bites happen regularly, even when the dog has never shown previous signs of aggression. If you or someone you love was injured after a dog bite attack, it is important to know that legal recourse may be available. Obtain the support of a skilled personal injury attorney who can help you file a claim. With many years of experience handling dog bite injury cases, the attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP can help you navigate the legal process.
Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP is exceptionally experienced in a wide range of personal injury cases, including complex dog bite injury cases. The law firm understands that following a dog bite attack, victims will generally face uncontrollable fear, anxiety, and stress. With a severe injury, the victim can also face disability and financial strain. If you have recently been attacked by a dog, you will need the qualified support of a skilled law firm to review your case and help you obtain the compensation you need to begin healing. Consider contacting the attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.
Strict Liability in Dog Bite Injury Cases
When a person has been bitten by a dog, California law allows the injured person to pursue a claim for damages. Based on the state’s strict liability laws, pet owners will be held completely responsible for the injuries and damages their dog causes as a result of an unprovoked attack.
Based on the law, dog owners cannot make the following arguments:
- They did not know of the dog’s propensity for aggression,
- The dog had never bitten anyone in the past, or
- They took all necessary measures to prevent their animal from harming another person
Whenever a dog bites a person, the dog owner will be held strictly responsible if:
- The injuries sustained were caused by a dog bite and not another form of attack,
- The bite happened while the victim was lawfully in a private space or was otherwise in a public space, and
- The injured person did not taunt or provoke the animal before the attack
Obtain the Compensation You Deserve – Contact a Skilled Attorney Today
Dog bite attacks can happen whenever a dog is present, but thanks to California law, pet owners can be held strictly responsible in the aftermath of an attack. If you or a loved one was recently injured when bitten by a dog, take quick action and contact a skilled personal injury attorney. By obtaining the right legal representation, you will be able to obtain the compensation you truly deserve for your injuries.
Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP is highly skilled in dog bite injury cases. Dog bite injury cases can sometimes be difficult to pursue, especially if the pet owner is being belligerent. Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP is prepared to manage your case and allow you to focus on what is most important – your health and recovery. Consider contacting the law firm today to schedule a complimentary case evaluation.
Stephen Levine, is a Board Certified Specialist in Criminal Defense — an honor achieved by only the top criminal law attorneys in California. Mr. Levine has over 40 years of experience in criminal defense and family law serving Southern California, and is a highly regarded Super Lawyer as well as AV Rated attorney.