Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyers
In a recent study, California led the nation in dog attacks on mail carriers, with Los Angeles ranking among the top 5 cities. Dog bites can result in severe injuries and emotional trauma.
After a dog bite in Los Angeles, it is important to seek legal representation from an experienced and knowledgeable Los Angeles dog bite attorney at The Barnes Firm. Our lawyers have over 100 years of combined experience and a proven track record of helping victims receive the compensation they deserve. With our expertise and attention to detail, we will guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights. Contact us today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation.
Do I Need an Attorney After a Dog Bite Accident?
If you or a loved one have been bitten or attacked by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages you suffered because of the animal attack. Obtaining this compensation can sometimes be a challenging process, and it is recommended that you hire an experienced personal injury attorney to advocate on your behalf. When you choose The Barnes Firm, you can be assured that our team of Los Angeles dog bite lawyers will:
- Provide a FREE case evaluation and advise you on next steps
- Investigate your accident and the circumstances leading up to it
- Gather evidence to build a strong legal case
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- If necessary, prepare and take your case to court
At The Barnes Firm, we understand how devastating a dog bite can be and the impact it can have on your life. You don’t have to face this alone. That’s why we are committed to providing personalized, compassionate, and effective legal representation to each of our clients. Call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 and ask to speak with one of our Los Angeles dog bite attorneys.
California Dog Bite Laws
The state of California follows a strict liability statute for dog bites. This means that dog owners are held responsible for any damages or injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether the owner knew or should have known that their dog was likely to bite.
California Civil Code Section 3342 states that the owner of a dog is liable for any damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, regardless of the dog’s prior viciousness or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness. The law also applies to injuries caused by a dog attack, even if the dog did not actually bite the victim.
At The Barnes Firm, our attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience successfully handling dog bite cases and are equipped with the knowledge needed to get you the justice you deserve. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation.
Common Dog Bite & Animal Attack Injuries
Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries depending on the severity of the attack. Some on the most common injuries associated with dog bites and animal attacks include:
- Wounds and lacerations
- Brain injuries
- Infections
- Broken or fractured bones
- Nerve damage
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Emotional trauma
- And more…
If you have been bitten or attacked by an animal in the Los Angeles area, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A medical professional can help identify and treat your injuries and get you started on your road to recovery. After seeking medical attention, call The Barnes Firm at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation. It could be the best call you make.
Why Do Dog Bites Happen?
Dogs can be influenced by a variety of factors that cause them to bite or attack a person. The most common reason dogs bite is possessiveness. Experts say dogs will often protect objects and places from unfamiliar people. These objects and places can include a toy, food, territory, or even another dog or human.
Some of the most common factors that lead to dog attacks include:
- Pet owners not taking responsibility for their dangerous dog
- Provoking a dog
- Trespassing on private property
- Dogs running unrestrained or without a leash
- Interrupting a dog while it is eating
- Petting an unfamiliar dog
Who Gets Bitten By Dogs?
Anyone can be bitten by a dog, but certain groups of people may be more at risk than others. Some known factors that can increase the risk of dog bites include:
- Children may not understand how to behave around dogs and may inadvertently provoke them. Children under the age of 10 are more likely to be bitten by a dog versus an adult.
- Dog owners may be more at risk of being bitten, particularly if they are not aware of their dog’s behavior or have not trained their dog properly.
- Elderly people may be more vulnerable to dog bites due to their decreased mobility and physical strength.
- Postal workers and other delivery personnel may be at increased risk of dog bites, as they are frequently entering private property and encountering dogs.
- Joggers and cyclists may be more at risk of dog bites, as dogs may perceive them as a threat or may become agitated by their movements.
It is important for everyone to take precautions around dogs to reduce the risk of bites, such as avoiding unfamiliar dogs, asking for permission before approaching a dog, and not disturbing a dog while it is eating or sleeping.
What To Do After an Animal Attack in Los Angeles
If you have been bitten or attacked by a dog in Los Angeles, it is important to take the following steps to preserve evidence and protect your legal rights.
- If you need immediate medical attention, call 9-1-1.
- Document the accident scene, including the dog owner’s information, witness statements, and photos and videos from the accident scene.
- Report the attack to Los Angeles animal control
- Seek medical attention
- Consult with a Los Angeles dog bite attorney at The Barnes Firm
What Damages Can Be Recovered For a Dog Bite Claim?
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in California, our team of personal injury attorneys may be able to help you recover compensation for the following damages:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Property damage
- And more…
The amount of damages you can recover in a dig bite claim will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. Our attorneys will fully investigate your accident and injuries to help you get the best result possible for your case. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation.
Contact a Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney Today
At The Barnes Firm, our team of attorneys has extensive experience handling dog bite cases, and our team of Los Angeles dog bite lawyers will work tirelessly to investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong legal strategy to help you recover the maximum compensation available. We understand the complexities of California dog bite laws and will help you navigate the legal process with confidence.
We believe that every dog bite victim deserves justice. Our attorneys are committed to providing compassionate legal representation and will work closely with you to understand your unique needs. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Los Angeles, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact us today at (800) 800-0000 for a free consultation.
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Melissa G.
“My personal injury lawyer was The Barnes Firm, they helped me with my injury lawsuit. I can’t thank them enough! John Sheehan and his team were there for me every step of the way. They answered all my questions and really fought for me and my family. I highly recommend them. Thank you Barnes Firm!”
Answers to Your CA Dog Bite FAQs
As a parent, the first step after your child is bitten by a dog is to get them immediate medical attention. Even minor bites can have serious consequences for small children if left undiagnosed or untreated. Report the incident to local authorities and gather information about both the dog and its owner.
Read More: Top Reasons Why Kids are at Greater Risk of Dog Attacks
The most important thing you can do after being attacked by a dog is get medical attention. Even seemingly minor dog bites can lead to serious infections or complications. Identifying the dog and its owner, if possible, is important for both medical treatment purposes and for potential legal action.
If you’re attacked by a dog as a delivery driver, your immediate actions should prioritize health and safety. Seek medical attention promptly to document and treat any injuries, regardless of their severity. Reporting the incident to your employer is crucial for workplace safety records and potential compensation claims. Contacting local authorities or animal control will help document the incident and establish a record of the dog’s behavior, which can be crucial for any legal proceedings.
Read More: What Delivery Drivers Need to Know About Dog Bite Liability
After being attacked by someone’s dog, you can pursue compensation by filing a personal injury claim against the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance or through a civil lawsuit. An experienced dog bite lawyer at The Barnes Firm can evaluate your case for free, gather evidence such as medical records and witness statements, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and if necessary, represent you in court to help secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
In a dog bite case, a dog’s lack of prior aggression can be a mitigating factor, but it does not automatically absolve the owner of liability. According to California law, even if the dog has no history of aggressive behavior, the owner can still be held accountable if negligence or inadequate control led to the incident.
Dog attacks can result in a range of injuries, from puncture wounds and lacerations to nerve damage, fractures, and infections. Facial injuries are also particularly common, especially in children who are often at eye level with dogs during an attack.
Suing a dog owner following an attack in California does not mean the dog will be put down. Determining if the dog will be euthanized following an attack depends on several factors, including the severity of the injuries, the dog’s history of aggressive behavior, and whether the owner was negligent in controlling the dog. Courts may order measures like training, increased restraint, or even removal of the dog from the owner’s care, depending on the circumstances.
Under California law, you have recourse if a dog attacks your pet, service animal, or farm animal. You can pursue compensation for veterinary bills, emotional distress, and other damages or losses resulting from the attack.
Written by The Barnes Firm, reviewed by Richard Barnes
