The San Bernardino dog bite lawyers at LA Century Law represent individuals that have been injured or harmed as a result of a dog bite or dog attack. We assist individuals make a claim for financial compensation for their injuries. You do not have to suffer the financial and emotional toll of a dog bite or dog attack alone. We can assist you to make a claim and obtain the justice you deserve.

If you have been hurt by a dog bite or dog attack, our law firm may help you request a monetary payment for your injuries and damages. Contact us today for a free consultation regarding your case.

What Is Dog Bite Compensation?

When a dog bite, or dog attack, occurs, the owner may be liable to the victim for damages. California law allows a victim to claim financial compensation from the dog owner. The claim is generally made against the dog owners insurance policy.

The victim must initiate their claim for damages. The amount that they receive depends on the severity of their injuries.

What Compensation Is Available for a Dog Bite?

A dog bite victim may claim the following types of compensation:

• Medical bills (including wound care)
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional anguish
• Disfigurement and loss of lifestyle
• Property damage

The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list.

26% of children who are dog bite victims need emergency medical attention. 12% of adults need immediate medical care. (UMPC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh) Injuries may be extremely serious. A victim may claim compensation for the many ways that a dog bite impacts their life.

Do I Deserve Compensation for a Dog Bite?

California law allows dog bite victims to claim compensation for their injuries. The victim must have been lawfully present in the place where the bite occurs, but the location may be public or private property. California has strict liability for dog bites. You do not have to prove that the dog had an aggressive history to deserve compensation.

However, dog owners who have animals with “unusually dangerous” propensities, such as Pit Bulls and Dobermans, may have a heightened duty of care to others. People who own, keep, or control animals with unusually dangerous natures or tendencies are responsible for the harm that their animals cause to others, no matter how carefully they guard or restrain their animals. (California Civil Jury Instruction, No. 462.)

How Does a Dog Bite Lawyer Help?

To receive the compensation that you deserve, you must take steps to claim it. That means knowing what compensation is appropriate under the law. You don’t want to ask for too little, but you must also document the amount that you deserve.

Some claims may be handled through an insurance policy, but a formal legal claim may be required. A lawyer helps you with the tasks of filing your legal documents, negotiating your settlement and presenting your case at trial. They know what to do to maximize your dog bite compensation and move through the legal system efficiently.

Why Choose Our Dog Bite Lawyers in San Bernardino?

LA Century Law represents dog bite victims. Here are some reasons that clients choose us to represent them.

• Experienced personal injury lawyers. Our law firm is dedicated exclusively to helping individuals who need representation for personal matters.
• Trial experience. We pursue your case as long as necessary. Our lawyers are trained and experienced to present your case in court or negotiate a fair settlement.
• A track record of success. Our clients have recovered millions of dollars. We’re proud of our history helping people like you recover the compensation they deserve.
• Options. Our lawyers look at all the options for you to receive a positive result. For dog bites, we look at insurance policies that may pay a claim. Plus, we work to resolve your case in the best way for you whether it is through a settlement or trial.
• Representation with no risk to you. We offer representation with no fee unless you win compensation.
• Recognition. We’ve received recognition from Super Lawyers, Los Angeles Magazine, Lawyers of Distinction, the American Academy of Attorneys and more. These honors reflect our commitment to your success.

We are a team of experienced, aggressive litigators who represent individuals who need justice in the legal system. If you have been hurt by a dog bite, we invite you to contact us to learn more about your case and how our lawyers can help.

What Are the San Bernardino Dog Bite Laws?

If you’ve been injured by a dog bite, here’s what you should know about California dog bite laws.

The California dog bite law is California Civil Code § 3342. It applies in San Bernardino. The owner is liable for any damages caused by their dog when the victim is lawfully in a public or private place at the time of the attack. Circumstances where a victim may claim dog bite compensation are:

• A friend or family member in someone’s home
• On a public sidewalk
• At a public park
• Apartment and condominium complexes
• On a walking trail or community public space
• Delivery drivers
• Mail delivery service
• Children petting a dog

Both adults and children may bring a claim for dog bite compensation. Strict liability applies – that means the owner does not have to prove that the dog has a bite history or any tendency towards aggression. Just the fact that the bite occurred may be enough for the victim to receive compensation.

Dog provocation and comparative negligence

Even though strict liability applies to dog bite claims, comparative fault may be a defense. If the victim provoked the dog, the compensation that they receive may be reduced. In addition, trespassing may be a defense. Also, there is a defense if a police or military dog is carrying out a function as part of their duties.

What should you do after being involved in a dog bite or dog attack in San Bernardino?

If you and/or your pet have been attacked or injured by another person’s pet, take the following actions to protect your rights:

Step 1: Evaluate your body for pain and injuries. If there are signs of injury, seek medical attention especially if there is an open wound caused by the attack.

Step 2: Take photos of your injuries and/or pet’s injuries. Also, take photos of the animal responsible for the attack.

Step 3: Gather as much information as possible from the owner of the dog or their dog walker. Request a copy of their (1) driver’s license and/or identification card information; (2) home address; and (3) phone number. If possible, call the police. The police will issue a report and/or call animal control. If there are any witnesses, request their information.

Step 4: Note the location of the attack or bite. Take photographs of the location if possible.

Step 5: Call LA Century Law for a free consultation.

Other Dog Bite Claims

Strict liability applies to dog bites only. For other types of dog injuries, the victim must prove that the dog owner acted negligently. Other dog bite claims may include injuries caused by running, jumping or scratching, or injuries caused by a dog running into the road.

Is the dog owner liable if the dog bites a veterinarian in California?

Even though dog owners are liable if their animals bite, strict liability does not apply if the victim is a veterinarian or a kennel owner. People who choose to work with animals do not have the same legal standards. They may still receive compensation, but they must prove that the owner acted negligently in their care and handling of the animal.

Does California have a one-bite rule for dogs?

Some states don’t make a dog owner liable for a bite unless the dog has a prior vicious history. It’s known as the “one bite” rule. California does not have the one-bite rule. A dog owner is strictly liable for any bites even if the dog has never shown a tendency to be aggressive.

I’m not sure I want to bring a dog bite claim – the owner is a family member!

Many dog bite victims are family of the dog’s owner. The victim may need financial compensation, but they may not want to bring a claim involving a family member. There may still be things you can do to get the compensation you need.

Many dog bite claims are resolved through insurance. Your family member may have homeowner insurance that covers damages. As part of our representation, our lawyers look at whether there are any insurance policies that apply and how they might cover compensation. Contact us for a consultation so that we can explore your case.

Dog Bite Lawyers in San Bernardino

If you have been injured by a dog bite, and your injuries were severe enough that you sought medical attention, a dog bite claim may benefit you. Our San Bernardino lawyers at LA Century Law are currently accepting new dog bite claims.

We invite you to contact us for a no-obligation consultation. You have only a limited amount of time to pursue a claim, so don’t wait. Call or send us a message today.