California Dog Bite Settlements

California dog bite settlements, what is the average settlement in California? You may be entitled to compensation after sustaining a dog bite injury caused by someone else’s negligence. The role of compensation awarded in a settlement claim is to reinstate the injured victim to their previous state before the accident.

Information regarding the average value of a dog bite settlement is important for your recovery plans. There is no average for a dog bite settlement in California. A dog bite settlement’s value will range depending on several factors, including the severity of your injury.

Each settlement value is unique based on applicable facts and circumstances. Consult a trusted dog bite attorney in Los Angeles to protect your rights as an injured victim.

California Dog Bite Statistics

In the United States, 12,400 people in the United States are hospitalized annually because of dog bites. The latest dog bite estimates demonstrate an increased rate of hospitalization, emergency room visits, and fatalities related to dog bites in California.

According to data from the Department of Healthcare Access and Information, in 2022, there were 48,596 emergency room visits because of dog bites in California. The rate of hospitalization has doubled from 2006 to 2022. There were 125 emergency room visits per 100,000 California residents, about 70% higher than in 2005.

California Dog Bite Statutes & Laws

California dog bite statutes stipulate that owners are responsible for bites in public spaces or private property for guests and invitees. The statute also covers bites at the owner’s home for a victim who has permission to be there.

In addition, a dog owner is liable for damages endured by a dog bite victim in a public or private place, regardless of the victim’s awareness of the dog’s viciousness. 

Are Dog Owners Responsible for Dog Bites to Trespassers?

California dog bite laws impose strict liability on dog owners for their dogs’ actions on public property or when a victim is legally admitted into a private space. Trespassers are not legally allowed into the dog owner’s property, meaning the proprietor is not liable for their bites.

In limited circumstances, a trespasser might prove that the dog owner’s negligent action contributed to the attack and the subsequent injury.

Dangerous Dogs Might Be Euthanized

California law allows the state to euthanize a ‘dangerous’ dog if it poses a safety risk to the public. Euthanization may be necessary for a dog that killed or injured someone without provocation. 

The state may also impose additional restrictions like keeping it inside or having a leash all the time.

What Are Some Example Cases?

Here are a few examples of dog attacks that may warrant a settlement:

• Unprovoked Biting: A dog may bite without incitement, including standing and facing the dog, addressing the dog owner, or walking towards the dog owner. 
• Provoked Attack: Your actions—stepping on the dog’s tail—can provoke a dog bite that results in an injury. Although the dog owner is under strict liability law, their liability may be reduced by the degree of fault that provoked the dog attack.
• Aggressive Dog Attack: You may sustain a dog bite from a dog with problematic behaviors, including aggression. Aggressive dogs are likely to show teeth, growl, bite, shake, or bite with enough pressure to cause a bruise.
• Dog-on-Dog Attack: A dog may bite another dog for various reasons, including an aggressive response. Genetics and early environmental exposure may contribute to the behavior. If the attacking dog is already dangerous, the dog owner may be liable for harboring a violent animal for any damages, including veterinary bills.

Should I Use An Online Dog Bite Calculator?

An online dog bite calculator is a tool that enables injured victims to estimate the value of economic and non-economic benefits. Users input specific details about their injury to determine how much they can expect from a dog bite claim.

An online dog bite calculator is not accurate. The tool cannot incorporate unique aspects of your case to generate the correct value. You should not rely on the calculator as a substitute for an experienced dog bite attorney.

An attorney can apply their skills and knowledge to estimate the value of damages applicable to your case.

What Does A Settlement Check Cover?

The role of a dog bite settlement is to compensate an injured victim for the dog attack-related losses. A dog bite settlement check comprises economic and non-economic damages.

Here’s a breakdown of possible damages in a dog bite settlement check:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Loss of consortium
• Emotional anguish
• Permanent disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

A judge or jury may award you punitive damages if the defendant’s grossly negligent actions.

What Evidence Is Needed For My Case?

You must show evidence that the dog owner failed to exercise reasonable care in controlling their dog. The input of an experienced dog bite attorney is valuable in locating and retaining several pieces of evidence vital for your claim.

Here are vital sources of evidence for your claim: 

• Police report
• Medical records
• Images of your injuries—lacerations, puncture wounds, or bruises
• The image of the dog
• Eye witness statement
• Video surveillance footage
• Pay stubs and tax returns

Is A Dog Bite Suit Worth It?

You can file a dog bite lawsuit if you can’t reach a settlement value with the at-fault party’s insurer. If the insurer doubts the severity of a dog bite injury, a lawsuit is an opportunity to prove your case.

A judge can issue an order that compels the dog owner to pay a fair settlement value for your losses.

Experienced A Dog Attack In California? Speak to an Attorney Today

You’re likely to endure worsening physical and mental health in the aftermath of a dog bite. You, therefore, deserve compensation for injury-related losses like doctor’s fees, medication, and transport charges during medical appointments.

The Barnes Firm has over 500 years of combined experience, giving us an edge to represent you. Contact us online or at (800) 800-0000 for a free case evaluation.

Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

Richard Barnes: “As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

Years of Experience: 30+ years
LinkedIn Profile: Richard Barnes