Understanding Dog Bites and Attacks in California
Dog bites and attacks in California are fairly common. The experience alone can be traumatizing even when the injury itself may not be significant. Victims who have been hurt deserve to be fully compensated for their injuries, including any pain and suffering.
At Garcia Preciado Law, our attorneys will make sure you get full and fair compensation. We know the law. We know how to deal with insurance companies and other potentially liable parties. Contact us to schedule a FREE consultation to learn more about how we will help you during this traumatic time.
Who is at Fault?
California operates under a strict liability system. California Civil Code Section 3342 is the California dog bite statute. To prove a case under California's dog bite statute, victims must show that:
1. The defendant owned the dog;
2. The dog bit the victim in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property;
3. The dog bite hurt the victim; and
4. The dog bite was a substantial factor in the injuries.
This is true even when the owner tries to prevent or takes all measures to mitigate dog bites or attacks.
What do I do if Attacked by a Dog in California?
When a dog bites or attacks a person, the injury could be serious. There are a few things you will want to do to protect yourself.
1. Seek medical attention immediately.
2. Obtain the dog owner's contact information, homeowner's or renter's insurance information, and proof of rabies vaccination.
3. If there were any witnesses to the attack, make sure to collect their names and contact information, too.
4. Take photos of the scene and the injury.
5. Contact the police or your local animal control agency.
The most important thing if attacked or bitten by a dog is your personal safety. Take all precautions to get help as soon as possible.
Common Injuries from Dog Bites
The injuries that victims can suffer in a dog bite can be severe and life changing. Some of the most severe include:
- Severe lacerations, often requiring numerous stitches or sutures
- Serious infections
- Nerve damage
- Dismembered fingers
- Chronic pain
- Scarring
These are just the physical symptoms that a dog bite victim has to live with. Victims frequently experience emotional distress and mental anguish from the attack as well. In some severe cases, it can even amount to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Contact Garcia Preciado Law Today
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury from another person's dog, the owner may be held accountable for the injury and, thus, liable for compensation. At Garcia Preciado Law, our attorneys want to make sure members of our community who have been injured or who have had a loved one die from a dog attack are fully compensated. Call us at 661-495-0084 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a FREE consultation to get a better understanding of your specific dog attack case.
