Dog Bite

Personal Injury Attorneys Representing People in Dog Bite Cases in Chula Vista and San Diego

It is not uncommon to see people living in the Chula Vista and San Diego areas spending time outdoors with their dogs. While most dogs are friendly, they are nonetheless animals, and even the most well-behaved dog can suddenly snap and attack a person. Dog bites can cause substantial physical and emotional trauma, and dog owners that fail to prevent their pets from harming people can be held accountable for any losses that ensue. If you were bitten by a dog, it is in your best interest to confer with an attorney as soon as possible to discuss what damages you may be owed. The experienced Chula Vista personal injury attorneys of the Law Offices of Bruce S. Meth are proficient at helping people hurt in dog attacks seek recourse for their harm, and if you engage our services, we will set forth compelling arguments to help you pursue the maximum compensation available. We routinely represent dog bite victims in cases in Chula Vista, San Diego, and cities throughout Southern California.

California Law Regarding Dog Bites

California has a strict liability dog bite law. In other words, the law dictates that a dog owner will be held liable for any damages sustained by an individual bitten by the dog if the person is in a public place. Strict liability will also be imposed on an owner if their dog bites a person that is lawfully in a private place, including the owner’s property. The owner will be deemed responsible regardless of whether they knew or should have known that the dog had vicious tendencies. There are some exceptions to the imposition of strict liability, though, such as when the victim was bitten by a dog used in police or military work during the investigation of a crime, execution of a warrant, or defense of another person. The California courts generally only apply the exception if the victim was the party being investigated for criminal activity, however.

Dog owners will often try to avoid liability by arguing that the victim was trespassing, assuming the risk of being attacked by the dog, or otherwise contributed to their own harm. Even if a dog bite victim cannot rely on strict liability, though, they may be able to recover damages from the dog owner by proving that they were negligent or that the owner knew that their dog was dangerous and failed to prevent it from attacking people.

Damages Recoverable for Dog Bites

Dog bites can cause significant injuries, including nerve damage, puncture wounds, torn ligaments, muscles, and tendons, and fractures. In some instances, a dog bite can lead to the loss of an appendage or limb, hemorrhaging, and death. Dog bites typically need immediate treatment, and if they go untended can lead to cellulitis and infection.

Generally, people hurt in dog attacks suffer psychological harm in addition to physical injuries. If you were the victim of a dog bite, you may be able to recover the cost of any medical care you needed or will need going forward. If you suffered a loss of income due to your injuries, you may be able to recover lost wages as well. In addition to compensation for your financial losses, you may also be awarded damages for your pain, suffering, and emotional trauma.

Confer with a Skillful California Personal Injury Attorney

Many people consider their pet dogs to be members of the family, but dog bites are unfortunately common, and when they occur, they often cause substantial losses. If you were hurt by a dog bite, it is prudent to meet with an attorney to assess what damages you may be owed. The skillful Chula Vista personal injury attorneys of the Law Offices of Bruce S. Meth are well-versed in what it takes to obtain favorable outcomes in dog bite cases, and if we represent you, we will advocate zealously on your behalf. We frequently assist people in personal injury cases in Chula Vista as well as throughout the San Diego area. You can contact us through our form online or at 619-691-8942 or via our online form to set up a confidential and free meeting.

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