A dog attack can inflict painful injuries, demanding costly medical attention and potentially leading to permanent scars or disfigurement. The trauma from such an incident can also result in psychological distress and a lasting fear of dogs.
At Omega Law Group, our Los Angeles dog bite lawyers are committed to supporting injured victims in their pursuit of justice and financial recovery from pet owners and other responsible parties. Let our family take care of your family, ensuring you receive the help you need to move forward.
Our Los Angeles personal injury lawyers are here to assist you in reclaiming your life after a dog attack in Southern California. With compassion and professionalism, we strive to help you through this challenging time.
How Can a Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney Help?
Handling a dog bite injury claim can be challenging. Our lawyers at Omega Law Group have the experience needed to assist you, particularly if you’ve sustained serious injuries.
Insurance companies might mishandle your claim to reduce their payout, but a Los Angeles dog bite attorney can support you in various ways:
- Answering your legal questions
- Investigating the dog bite incident
- Determining who is at fault
- Helping you establish liability
- Filing an insurance claim on your behalf
- Negotiating with insurance adjusters
- Representing you in court, if needed
A Los Angeles dog bite attorney can ensure that you have access to top medical care and legal guidance throughout the personal injury claims process. This allows you to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects.
Dog Bite Laws in California
Your neighbor’s dog bit you, now what? In California, pet owners are held accountable for dog bite injuries under a strict liability statute. If you were lawfully on the property, the dog’s owner is responsible for your injuries, regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s awareness of its potential to bite.
California Civil Code Section 3342 states that a dog owner is liable for damages if their dog bites someone in a public place or while the person is lawfully on private property. This law applies regardless of whether the dog has shown previous aggression or the owner knew about it.
However, this strict liability does not apply if the dog was performing police or military duties at the time of the bite. If you’ve been bitten, it’s important to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation for your injuries.
Have you been bitten by
someone else's dog?
Our bog bite lawyers in Los Angeles are here to help.
(310) 526-8383
Determining Liability for Dog Bites
Typically, the dog’s owner is responsible for injuries, deaths, or property damage caused by the dog. If someone else, like a dog walker or family member, was controlling the dog, they might be liable. In California, anyone keeping or harboring the animal can be considered an “owner” and held liable for injuries.
If a dog is owned by a child under 18, the parents are vicariously liable, meaning they are responsible for covering the victim’s medical bills. Additionally, a landlord in California might be liable if they knew a tenant had a dangerous dog but failed to take action to prevent attacks.
If you have questions about liability after a dog bite attack, consult with a skilled Los Angeles dog bite lawyer. After discussing the specifics of your case, they can help determine who is responsible.
Who Covers the Costs After a Dog Bite?
Many victims hesitate to seek legal remedies for dog bite injuries, fearing financial hardship for the dog owner. However, it’s often the pet owner’s insurance company that covers these claims. Homeowners‘ insurance typically includes coverage for dog bite injuries on the owner’s property since pets are considered property.
If a dog bite occurs in a vehicle, the owner’s car insurance usually covers the claim. Some insurance policies specifically cover dog attacks, and these can pay for bite injuries. If the pet owner lacks insurance, they are personally responsible for the costs.
Pet owners may defend against dog bite claims by arguing the victim was trespassing or provoked the dog. In California, trespassing can prevent financial recovery, and partial fault can reduce the victim’s compensation proportionally.
Common Injuries from Dog Bites
Dog attacks can be severe, leading to lifelong impacts. When some dogs attack, they may not let go, resulting in various severe injuries, such as:
- Puncture wounds
- Broken bones
- Cuts, scrapes, and deeper lacerations
- Injured muscles and ligaments
- Evisceration
- Degloving
- Facial injuries
- Eye injuries
- Nerve damage
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Infections or diseases
- Wrongful death
A dog attack can also lead to emotional trauma, including distress, anguish, a fear of dogs, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Were you attacked by
someone's dog?
(310) 526-8383
Actions to Take Following a Dog Bite in Los Angeles
If you’re bitten by a dog in Los Angeles, follow these steps to safeguard your health and financial well-being:
- Remain calm and move to a safe place.
- Exchange contact information with the dog’s owner.
- Gather the names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
- Report the incident to Los Angeles Animal Control.
- Seek immediate medical attention for your injuries.
- Document the incident while the details are fresh in your mind.
- Keep records of all related expenses, such as medical bills.
- Contact the pet owner’s insurance company to file a claim.
- Avoid giving a recorded statement to the insurance company.
- Consult a Los Angeles dog bite attorney about your legal options before accepting any settlement.
Taking these steps promptly can help prevent infections and hold the pet owner accountable for your injuries so you can get the maximum compensation possible.
Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries
We understand that financial compensation can’t undo the trauma of a dog bite, but it can significantly ease the burden of medical expenses and other losses. This support can help cover necessary medical treatments, including reconstructive surgery and therapy, and compensate for lost income.
You might be eligible for various types of compensation, such as:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and future income opportunities
- Property damage costs
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and psychological harm
- Permanent scarring, disfigurement, or disability
- Reduced quality of life
- Loss of companionship
- Death benefits
- Punitive damages
The value of your dog bite claim will vary based on the specifics of your situation, including the severity of your injuries.
Consulting with a knowledgeable dog bite attorney in Los Angeles is the best way to get an accurate estimate of your claim’s worth before negotiating with an insurance company.
Cost of Hiring a Dog Bite Lawyer
Worrying about legal fees after a dog bite injury is completely understandable, especially when you’re already facing medical expenses. We strive to make our services accessible by working on a contingency fee basis.
This means you won’t need to pay any upfront costs for legal representation.
Our promise is simple: if we don’t secure a settlement or verdict in your favor, you don’t pay. When we do win your case, our fees will be a percentage of the compensation you receive. This approach allows you to pursue your claim without financial risk and motivates your lawyer to maximize your settlement.
California’s Statute of Limitations for Dog Bites
When dealing with a dog bite injury in California, it’s essential to act within the statute of limitations. This law sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit, which is generally within two years from the date of the attack.
For victims under 18, they may have until their 20th birthday to file, even if this exceeds the two-year period.
In most cases, California courts will not consider claims filed after this deadline. Therefore, it’s important to contact a Los Angeles dog bite attorney promptly. They can begin working on your case right away, ensuring your lawsuit is submitted within the required timeframe.
Why You a Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer
Being a bite victim can be traumatic. A skilled Los Angeles personal injury lawyer can significantly aid in managing the legal process and securing financial support for your recovery. They will advocate for your rights and help cover medical bills and other expenses.
At Omega Law Group, we understand the challenges you face as a bite victim. Our team is committed to providing compassionate and professional legal assistance. With our motto, “Let our family take care of your family,” we strive to offer the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, don’t hesitate to reach out to Omega Law Group. Our Los Angeles dog bite lawyers are here to help you work through the legal system and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.
