Minor Dog Bite Injury Cases in California
In the State of California, dog bites happen regularly, severely impacting the lives of thousands of children and adults. According to some reports, the state led the nation in the highest number of recorded dog bites in 2019. In the same year, the state also had the highest number of reported dog bite-related deaths. When a dog bites a person, the consequences are not always as catastrophic; nonetheless, these attacks can leave a lasting impression on anyone. If you or someone you love was recently bitten or attacked by a dog, speaking to a well-versed attorney is in your best interest. The skilled attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP can help you understand what your rights are as a victim.
For many years, Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP has championed on behalf of dog bite victims. In California, dog bite injury claims are time-sensitive cases; consequently, it is important to work quickly alongside a proficient attorney to ensure one’s rights and interests are protected. To schedule a no-obligation consultation with the attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP, consider completing the online contact form here.
California Legislation on Dog Bite Cases
Unlike other states, the State of California does not follow the “one-bite rule”. This rule essentially means that dog owners will get a free pass when the attack was the first attack their pet carried out. These attacks, however, are adjudicated on a case-by-case basis. States that follow this rule will usually not hold pet owners liable unless the owner has been notified of a previous attack on a person or if the dog is considered dangerous. On the contrary, dog owners in the State of California will impose liability on pet owners regardless of the dog’s history.
The State of California applies strict liability on every pet owner in the state. Based on this, dog owners can be held accountable for the victim’s damages regardless of whether the dog has ever bitten a person or has displayed signs of aggression. Whether the bite was small or is considered catastrophic, the dog owner will be held accountable and the injured victim has the legal right to pursue a civil claim for damages.
A Case Can Be Filed Regardless of Severity
Dog bite injuries can vary greatly. When a dog bites a person, the victim can suffer from infections, broken bones, and pain. Even when the injury itself is smaller, the attack can lead to long-lasting trauma, such as anxiety, nightmares, loss of quality of life, and PTSD.
Based on the California Civil Code §3342, strict liability is placed on owners only when the dog has actually bitten a person. In cases where the dog did not bite the person but the attack still injured him or her, a case may still be pursued under the state’s tort law system. A case based on negligence may be more challenging to pursue because the injured person must prove the dog owner’s negligence, unlike cases based on strict liability.
Prove Your Case with Proficient Legal Representation
When injured by a dog in California, pursue a claim with the support of a skilled attorney. Regardless of severity, the dog owner can be held accountable for your injuries. Depending on how the injury was sustained, however, will affect the course of action. Speak to a well-versed attorney who has the experience you need to win a case.
The attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP are exceptionally versed in dog attack cases. The law firm is committed to helping their clients recover the compensation they deserve following a vicious dog attack. Consider scheduling your no-obligation consultation with the law firm today.
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.