Glendale Dog Bite Lawyers

What Are the Laws About Dog Bites in Los Angeles?

California operates under a "strict liability" statute concerning dog bite cases. This means that a dog owner can be held liable if their dog bites someone, regardless of the dog's previous behavior or the owner's knowledge or lack of knowledge regarding such behavior. 

This law applies when the victim is bitten in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the dog owner's property. This approach contrasts with the "one-bite" rule applicable in some other states, where the owner may not be held liable for a first bite if they had no reason to believe their dog was dangerous.

Los Angeles follows California's strict liability statutes regarding dog bites. Under California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners may be liable for damages and losses if you or your child were injured in an attack. 

Filing a Dog Bite Injury Claim

You can file an injury claim for a dog bite if you were bitten in a public place or were lawfully present in a private place. This right applies whether you were invited as a guest, performing a duty imposed by law, or delivering services, such as mail delivery.

For example, suppose a child is invited to a neighbor's home to play and is bitten by the family dog. In that case, the homeowner can be held responsible for the child's injuries, regardless of whether the dog has shown aggression in the past. Another example might include a pedestrian walking through a public park bitten by an off-leash dog, violating local leash laws. In this scenario, the dog's owner could be held liable for the victim's medical expenses, pain, suffering, and any other damages resulting from the bite.

Homeowner's insurance can play a critical role in dog bite cases, offering financial protection to the dog owner against claims made by the bite victim. Most homeowner's insurance policies include liability coverage, which may cover the costs associated with dog bite injuries, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

This coverage typically applies whether the bite occurs on the owner's property or elsewhere. However, some insurance policies may have exclusions for particular breeds considered high-risk or dogs with a history of aggression. 

Dog bite victims should know that seeking compensation through homeowner's insurance is common. This means you will be up against well-funded and resourceful insurers looking to protect themselves from injury claim payouts. Get in touch with a dog bite attorney in Glendale at Hartounian, APLC for qualified legal counsel by your side.

How Long Do I Have To File A Lawsuit After A Dog Bite In California?

In California, you typically have a two-year window from the date of a dog bite incident to file a lawsuit. This statutory period means you must take legal action within two years against the dog owner or any other liable parties. Failing to file within this timeframe can result in forfeiting your right to pursue compensation for your injuries.

A dog bite attorney in Glendale can help you navigate this timeframe effectively. It's crucial to act promptly for several reasons:

• Preserving Evidence
• Medical Documentation
• Witness Availability and Ability To Remember The Incident
• More Time To Develop A Strong Legal Strategy

How Much Can You Sue For A Dog Bite In California?

In California, the amount you can claim for a dog bite varies greatly based on a number of criteria, such as the extent of your injuries, the cost of your medical care, your income, and the effect on your quality of life.

You are entitled to recover the following:

• Medical Expenses: You are entitled to recover the costs associated with immediate medical care, including emergency room visits, surgeries, and hospital stays. Additionally, you can claim for ongoing expenses such as medications, physical therapy, and any future medical treatments necessitated by the dog bite.
• Lost Wages: Should your injuries impact your ability to work, you can pursue compensation for the income lost during your recovery. This encompasses not only the wages lost to date but also any future earnings you may be unable to earn if your capacity to work has been permanently compromised.
• Pain and Suffering: Experienced dog attack lawyers in Glendale will assist you in seeking compensation for the physical pain and emotional trauma endured due to the incident. This includes claims for anxiety, depression, and other psychological effects that have impacted your quality of life.
• Property Damage: Should your personal belongings, such as clothing or accessories, be damaged during the attack, these costs can be incorporated into your overall claim to ensure you are fully compensated for all losses incurred.
• Punitive Damages: If the dog owner's actions were especially reckless or malicious, you may qualify for punitive damages. These damages go beyond compensating for your injuries; they aim to penalize the defendant and discourage such behavior from occurring again.

Each dog bite case is different, with the potential compensation dependent on the unique details of your situation. By consulting with a Glendale dog bite attorney, you can gain an accurate assessment of your claim's value. At Hartounian, APLC, our dedicated team will meticulously gather all relevant evidence, negotiate aggressively with insurance companies, and provide strong courtroom representation if necessary. We are committed to securing the highest possible compensation for your injuries and losses. If you've been injured in a dog attack, reach out to our office for a complimentary consultation.

Contact Dog Attack Attorneys in Glendale at Hartounian, APLC

If you've been bitten by a dog, it's essential to consult a dog bite attorney in Glendale as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure you meet all legal deadlines. Our experienced team can guide you through the legal process, helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Don't delay—reach out to us for a consultation.