Dog Bite Laws in California: Frequently Asked Questions
Under the State of California, dog owners are strictly responsible for any injuries their dog has caused to another person. While California law required pet owners to be held liable for the injuries, the law does have certain restrictions that can vary depending on the facts of each case. This article will cover some of the most important questions you may have as a dog bite victim. For more detailed answers regarding your case, consider seeking the legal expertise of a proficient attorney.
Should I report the dog bite injury?
When a dog attacks a person, it is the responsibility of both the dog owner and the victim to report the incident. Typically, when either party files a report, the appropriate policing party will begin an investigation into what occurred. The investigation will serve to:
- Verify the facts of the preliminary report as well as to collect supplementary information about the incident.
- Determine the gravity of the possible consequences of the attack, especially those such and infections or the potential of a rabies transmission.
- Gather information in an effort to guide the victim to the appropriate medical support.
- Identify a course of action to reduce and/or eliminate future incidents.
What are important aspects of the California dog bite law I should know about?
To begin answering this question, it is important that you recognize that California laws are subject to be modified. The following are some of the most important elements of the California dog bite law that can affect your case:
- In order for the owner to be held liable, the attack must have occurred on public property.
- In the event that the attack occurred on private property, the victim will need to demonstrate that he or she was there lawfully and not trespassing.
- Unlike other states, the State of California does not have a one-bite rule; therefore, the owner is not required to have prior knowledge of the dog’s history of aggressiveness in order to be held accountable.
What is the importance of seeking legal support if I have suffered an attack?
Any person that has suffered a dog bite should know that dog bites can have severe consequences. A dog bite can not only have the potential of severe infections, it can also lead to severe financial difficulties. Depending on the severity of the attack, victims can lose the inability to work. If the victim is the primary source of income in his or her household, the entire family can suffer the consequences of the attack.
Dog attack do not only have the potential of leaving a victim with physical attacks, they can also leave a victim with serious psychological conditions such as deep levels of trauma, anxiety, or stress. If you have recently suffered a dog bite in the State of California, seek the legal support of a qualified attorney who can fight for your rights. With the support of skilled attorney, you can compile a strong claim that can help you win financial restitution that can help you through this difficult time.
The attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP are highly dedicated to helping dog bite victims obtain the financial restitution they deserve. They are highly skilled and proficient in the field of dog bite claims in the State of California. Dog bite claims, along with all personal injury cases in the State of California are strictly time sensitive; seek legal support as soon as possible.
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.