Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney

Free Case Review With a Dog Bite Injury Attorney

Dog bites can be physically and emotionally damaging. After a dog bite, injured individuals and family members of those who have died often wonder about their rights. At Grey Law, your local dog bite lawyer in Los Angeles, we understand the complex nature of dog bite cases. We can help you pursue justice while offering the compassionate support you need.

There have been significant spikes in dog bite fatalities throughout the nation in recent years. In 2015, some of the most compelling insights show:

• In 2015, 34 fatal dog attacks occurred in the U.S. As of August 2016, 4 out of the 21 on-site deaths recorded occurred in California.
• 32% of dog bite fatalities in America happened during home visits or in living situations. Of the attacks at home, 82% of the victims were children aged nine and younger.
• 50% of all dog attack fatalities that occurred in 2015 involved multiple dogs.
• Pit bulls and other powerful breeds such as Rottweilers account for the majority of fatal attacks. The context of an attack matters, but this data does indicate a striking trend in dangerous attacks.

WHY CHOOSE GREY LAW TO HANDLE YOUR DOG BITE CLAIM?

At Grey Law, our firm has helped dog injury victims, and owners navigate the complexities of dog accident claims. Our firm is committed to getting you fair and full compensation while safeguarding your rights in court. For over 35 years, attorney David Grey has recovered millions and works on a contingency fee basis. That way, you can focus on healing while we help you recover damages.

ADDITIONAL DOG BITE INJURY STATISTICS

Other sources also indicate the following:

• In the U.S., 4.5 million dog bites get recorded every year (CDC).
• Dog-related injuries made up over a third of total homeowner’s liability insurance claims in 2015. The cost of insurance settlements also rose by 16% in the same year.
• When a dog attacks, a child between ages 5-9 is statistically most likely to be bitten.
• There were over 90 million canines in the U.S. between 2019 – 2020.
• There is a 1 in 112,400 chance of dying from a dog bite or attack.
• Over 70% of all dog bites occur because the dog didn’t get neutered.

Every dog has the potential to bite, and all owners are responsible for their pets. These statistics aren’t to scare you but to highlight the issues of dog bites from pets, loose pets, and stray animals.

HOW TO FILE A DOG BITE CLAIM

While many dogs are lovable and friendly, many instances occurred in which victims have gotten viciously attacked. Dog bites happen more often than people think. If you or a loved one got attacked by a dog, then it is in your best interest to consult with a dog bite lawyer in Los Angeles as soon as possible. Our team will help you with every aspect of your case and file a dog bite claim to pursue the justice and compensation you deserve for your injuries.

There are a wide range of dog bite cases that can arise, and if you are a victim of one, it is necessary to seek medical help and legal guidance as soon as possible. Due to California’s stance on being a “strict liability” state, the owner is responsible for the actions of their domestic pets. You can find the most common types of dog bite cases here, with examples about the liability law.

TYPES OF DOG BITE INJURIES

Like dog-bite cases, the injuries can range significantly. Whether minor or severe, you can file a claim against its owners. But you should know what kind of injuries you have. Doing so will help you support your legal case against at-fault parties and the court. Here are the common types of dog bite injuries that one might suffer from:

• Puncture and tearing wounds
• Scars
• Psychological and emotional injuries
• Rabies
• Head and brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Death
• And more

MISTAKES TO AVOID IF YOU GOT WOUNDED BY A DOG

When a dog’s teeth puncture through your skin, it can be overwhelming and terrifying. Your mind may be preoccupied while you assess the severity and tend to your wounds. There are several mistakes’ victims tend to make after an incident like this, including:

1. Avoiding the hospital
2. Not filing a police report
3. Missing out on an opportunity to take pictures of the scene

Staying alert and having a plan in place is vital if you plan on pursuing legal action. A misstep can jeopardize your health and your case. Read on for the mistakes victims should avoid when an altercation occurs between a domestic pet, like a dog.

WHEN SHOULD I SUE FOR A DOG BITE?

The best time to sue for a dog bite is immediately after the accident happens and preferably once the victim has been treated for emergency care. Fortunately, most states have laws in place to specifically tend to cases regarding canine injuries.

You can claim damages for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses associated with other damages caused. If you have been permanently disabled, then you can press the dog owner and their insurance company for the kind of settlement that will allow you to cover your expenses and rebuild your life.

Seeking a lawyer to handle your case and provide legal guidance when needed is the best strategy.

LIABILITY IN DOG BITE INJURY CASES IN CALIFORNIA

Responsibility shapes the outcome of dog bite cases, and every state has different dog bite laws. In California, an attorney will help you understand the state and local laws that may affect your case. California uses a strict liability rule in deciding dog bite cases.

All pet owners are responsible for their canine’s actions, regardless of the situation, unless it was:

• A provoked attack
• The attacks that happened during a crime
• The dog’s actions arose from animal cruelty

At the local level here in Los Angeles, owners are responsible for keeping their dogs on leashes, and all cats and dogs over four months old must maintain a yearly license in Los Angeles County. Homeowners may have a maximum of three licensed and spayed or neutered dogs in one residence at any time.

A dog owner will likely face state and local issued citations and penalties after a fatal attack, but these actions don’t directly support a victim. Pursuing a lawsuit helps you recover compensation to pay for associated medical bills, pain and suffering, and any lost wages you’ve endured.

RELATED ARTICLES ABOUT DOG BITE INJURIES

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE: DOG BITE LIABILITY COVERAGE EXPLAINED
Liability coverage is a specific section of a homeowner’s insurance policy that should cover from dog bites to accidentally knocking someone over on your property. Most homeowners don’t even realize this is a necessary part of coverage in their policy. Understanding your rights, whether you are an owner, is a necessity to ensure your financial well-being. Read on for answers regarding legal protection, insurance limits, canine restrictions, and liability.

CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR OWNERS OF DANGEROUS DOGS
Owners can face criminal penalties for owning dangerous dogs. Per California law, if your domestic pet has been trained to fight, attack, or kill, it will be deemed an unsafe dog. The best strategy is to do your research on the history of your prospective furry companion before you purchase it. Even if it does not appear dangerous at first, anything can set off aggressive behavioral instincts. Read on to learn more about criminal penalties and possible defenses that can help your case.

IMPORTANCE OF HIRING A DOG BITE ATTORNEY IN LOS ANGELES
Some of the clients who come into our office are concerned about their relationships with a dog’s owner. At Grey Law, we know the delicate nature of many dog bite incidents. Filing a lawsuit doesn’t mean you hate the dog owner. Instead, it’s a way for you to seek justice, closure, and the compensation needed to heal. Our cases often focus on their insurance policy coverage rather than the individual. Regardless of the situation, you have the right to fair compensation after enduring a preventable attack.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR DOG BITE INJURIES
What is the first thing I should do after getting bitten by a dog?

1. Seek medical treatment for the punctured wound.
2. Report the attack to law enforcement.

Documenting the extent of your injuries will help your case significantly. In a personal injury lawsuit, an official report can also fast-track your chance to recover medical costs.

In California, are there breed-specific laws in the state?
Yes – there are breed-specific laws for the following:

• Pit Bull
• American Pit Bull Terrier
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Dobermans
• Rottweilers
• German Shepherds

Is there a statute of limitations for dog bite injuries?
The statute of limitations in California is two years for personal injuries, like a dog bite wound. If you do not file a claim within the legally allowed time frame, you may lose your right to compensation. You should file a claim as soon as possible.

What is the “Strict Liability Rule,” and how does it work?
The strict liability theory holds that even if the plaintiff could have done something to prevent the dog bite altogether or minimize the severity of the injury, the court will still hold the defendant liable. The case presented will be solely based on evidence.

What happens when the victim is partially at fault?
Victims are partly at fault when they engage through unwarranted interactions, trespassing on a property, or ignoring the warning signs.

In a lawsuit, the shared fault gets handled differently. There are three ways it might get approached:

• Comparative Negligence
  The amount of compensation that gets rewarded to the plaintiff gets reduced based on their level of negligence. In California, even if the injured party was mostly to blame for the incident, they could still receive a bit of compensation based on the percentage of fault.
• Modified Comparative Negligence
  In this type of ruling, negligence gets established by percentage. Unlike pure or comparative negligence, there is a limitation in compensation. If the plaintiff is liable for 50% or more, they are not entitled to any compensation for their injuries.
• Contributory Negligence
  Per this law, the plaintiff is not entitled to any compensation if they were even partially responsible for the incident.

CONTACT A LOS ANGELES DOG BITE ATTORNEY

Don’t hesitate to contact a personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles for a free case evaluation. The attorneys at Grey Law are committed to helping you and your family recover after a dog bite incident. Contact us here or call today for a free consultation with one of our experienced injury lawyers at (323) 857-9500!