Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyers

While dog bites might seem relatively rare, they are actually a major source of significant personal injuries in the United States. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, an estimated 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year and over 330,000 people are treated in emergency departments annually due to dog bite-related injuries. These statistics do not account for individuals who sustain other types of injuries while fleeing an attempted bite, such as injuries from a related fall.

Los Angeles dog bite lawyers like Jon Olsson represent residents of Los Angeles County and the South Bay in dog and animal bite injury cases. We understand the unique standards that apply when trying to establish liability for a dog bite and the evidence necessary to negotiate a resolution with the dog owner and their insurance company, where possible.

About Dog Bite Liability in California

California law takes dog bites seriously. California Civil Code Section 3342 applies strict liability to dog bite claims. This means that a dog owner is responsible for the damages suffered by any person bitten by their dog regardless of whether the dog has previously bitten someone or displayed aggressive behavior. Even where a dog bite is completely unexpected, a dog owner can be held responsible for injuries that occur.

Dog bite liability can arise when a dog bites an individual in a public space or on private property where the bitten individual is lawfully on the property. This means that where an individual is bitten by a guard dog while trespassing onto another’s property or unlawfully trying to enter another’s property, the owner typically will not be held liable for any dog bite that results. Dogs used by the military and police are also subject to certain exemptions from liability.

Dog Bites and Insurance: What You Should Know

If you have been bitten by a friend, family, or neighbor’s dog, you are not alone. Many dog bites occur while visiting a friend or acquaintance’s home. For this reason, many homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies provide insurance coverage for dog bites through the personal liability and medical payments sections of these policies. This means that dog bite victims can often avoid lengthy court battles over liability and obtain compensation for the severe physical and psychological impacts of dog bites.

What To Do If You Are Bitten

Being bitten by a dog can be a shocking and unexpected event. If you are bitten, seek medical attention as soon as possible so that you can receive treatment for your wounds and any necessary antibiotics or shots. Make sure to then report the incident to the appropriate local authorities, which may include an animal control agency. Take pictures of your injuries to document them for any later insurance claim, and make sure to keep any medical records and documentation of medical expenses as well. You should also obtain the dog owner’s name and contact information if you don’t already know it, and any insurance information.