San Diego Dog Bite Lawyers

San Diego Dog Bite Lawyers

The San Diego County Department of Animal Services reports over 6,000 dog bite attacks annually, with San Diego consistently ranking as a top five US city for dog bite attacks. Many of these attacks occur on an owner’s property and can result in severe injury and emotional distress for the victim. It’s important to always be cautious and alert around dogs, especially if the dog is unfamiliar.

If you have been the victim of a dog bite attack in San Diego, it’s crucial to seek legal representation from a trusted San Diego dog bite attorney at The Barnes Firm. Our attorneys have decades of combined experience helping dog bite victims receive the compensation they deserve. Our team will help you navigate the legal process and defend your rights. Call The Barnes Firm 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 attacked or bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation. Obtaining this compensation can be a complex process, which is why it is a good idea to hire a San Diego dog bite attorney from The Barnes Firm who will:

• Gather evidence to build a strong legal case
• Investigate your accident and the circumstances leading up to it
• Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
• Prepare and take your case to court if necessary
• Provide a FREE case evaluation and advise you on next steps

At The Barnes Firm, we understand how traumatic a dog bite accident can be for the victim(s). While you focus on recovery, we will assist in navigating the legal process to help you get the best result possible for your case. Call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 and ask to speak with one of our dedicated San Diego dog bite attorneys.

Why Do Dog Bite Attacks Happen?

Dogs may exhibit biting or aggressive behavior due to various factors that influence them. The primary cause of dog bites is possessiveness, where dogs behave aggressively to protect objects, toys, food, other dogs and humans and areas from unfamiliar individuals.

Several frequent factors that contribute to dog attacks are:

• Dogs running while unrestrained or without a leash
• Disrupting a dog while it is eating
• Owners not taking responsibility for their dangerous dog
• Petting an unfamiliar dog
• Provoking a dog
• Trespassing on private property where a dog resides

Who is Most Likely To be Bitten by a Dog in San Diego?

Children under the age of sixteen are at the highest risk of dog bite attacks. However, anyone can be attacked by a dog at any given time. The most common victims of dog attacks are:

• Children who don’t know how to respect dogs and their boundaries, thus leading to unintentionally provoking dogs to behave aggressively.
• Dog owners who don’t fully know their dog’s behaviors or who haven’t properly trained their dogs can be at risk of being attacked.
• Elderly people who have decreased mobility and strength, making them easily victimized by aggressive dogs.
• Walkers, joggers, and cyclists who can be perceived as moving threats to dogs and prompt dogs to attack out of defense or territorial behavior.
• Postal workers and other delivery personnel who must enter private property as a part of their job. With this job requirement comes a heightened risk of dog attacks on the property being entered.

Animals can be unpredictable, so airing on the side of caution is always advisable in any situation. To reduce the risk of being attacked, you should avoid unfamiliar dogs, ask for owner permission before approaching their dog, and never disturb a dog while it eats or rests.

Common Dog Bite & Animal Attack Injuries

Dog bite attacks can cause a variety of injuries depending on the severity of the attack. Some on the most common injuries associated with dog bites and other animal attacks include:

• Broken or fractured bones
• Emotional trauma
• Infections
• Nerve damage
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Wounds and lacerations
• And more…

If you or a loved one have been bitten or attacked by a dog in San Diego, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. A medical professional can identify and treat your injuries. After seeking medical attention, call The Barnes Firm at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE consultation. It could be the best call you make.

What To Do After a Dog Bite Attack in San Diego

If you have been bitten by a dog in San Diego, it’s important to take the following steps to preserve evidence and protect your legal rights:

• Call 9-1-1.
• Document the attack scene, dog owner information, dog vaccination information, witness statements, and photo/video evidence of the attack scene.
• Report the attack to San Diego animal control.
• Seek immediate medical attention, even if you don’t think your injuries are severe.
• Consult with a San Diego dog bite attorney at The Barnes Firm.

California Dog Bite Laws

California follows a strict liability statute for dog bites. According to California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are liable for any damages or injuries caused by their dogs while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, regardless of whether the owner had any indication that their dog was going to attack. 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 help you get the justice you deserve. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation.

What Compensation Can Be Recovered for a Dog Bite Claim?

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in San Diego, our team of dog bite accident attorneys may be able to help you recover compensation for the following damages:

• Lost wages
• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Scarring and disfigurement
• And more…

The amount of damages you can recover in a dog bite claim will depend on the unique circumstances of your case. Our San Diego dog bite accident attorneys will thoroughly 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 San Diego Dog Bite Attorney Today

At The Barnes Firm, we believe that every dog bite victim deserves justice. Our experienced dog bite accident attorneys are committed to providing compassionate legal representation and will work alongside you to help you get the best result possible. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in San Diego, don’t hesitate to contact The Barnes Firm at (800) 800-0000 for a free consultation.

Client Reviews

What our clients are saying about us

Diane Z.

“Both Jeff Bodily and Mayra Wallis were wonderful to deal with. Very professional, knowledgeable, supportive and helped me navigate through a very stressful time after being hit by a car. 5 stars to The Barnes firm. Anyone needing help after a car accident, Jeff Bodily at The Barnes Firm should be your first call.”