More than 4.5 million people each year are bitten or attacked by a dangerous dog, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Children, who account for nearly 50 percent of dog bite victims, are much more susceptible to suffering from serious wounds following a dog attack.
When you or someone you love has been bitten by a dog, you have suffered a terrible tragedy that no one have should have to endure. If you have questions about your legal rights, fill out the Case Evaluation form to your right or contact us at 916-924-3100 to get connected with one of our Sacramento dog bite attorneys.
The following are some of the most frequently asked questions victims of dog bites have after an attack. If you don’t see your question answered, don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your situation.
Immediately seek medical attention after a dog bite and report the attack to law enforcement. Documenting your injuries as well as having a written report of the attack can help you if you decide to pursue an injury claim.
Dogs will most commonly attack a victims face, nose, arms and legs. Injuries such as puncture wounds, bruising and emotional scarring are common, however, children and elderly adults are much more susceptible to suffering broken bones, eye injuries, and deep bruising. Additionally, infection can be a serious problem if the victims wounds are not treated as soon as possible.
If you have suffered a dog bite you may be entitled to receive compensation for medical treatment you received and may continue to need, lost wages, and mental anguish. Many victims of dog bites suffer psychological damage and develop anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder following a vicious attack.
California has some of the strictest laws in the nation on animal ownership. For example, first-generation wolf hybrids are not permitted as pets. Certain dog breeds are not permitted in some communities, but not necessarily throughout the state. Some communities do not permit the public to have Rottweilers, Pitbulls and other breeds considered more dangerous than others.
Some state laws dictate that a dog should be put down after an attack, particularly if this dangerous dog has bitten more than one person. However, laws vary from state to state and it is likely that the owner will be cited and held responsible for their dogs actions.
Yes, California is one of many states where strict liability applies. According to the California Civil Code, section 3342, the owner of any dog is liable to the damages suffered by any person who was bitten while in a public or private place including the owners home regardless of how vicious that dog was known or not known to be.
Strict liability means the owner of the dog will be held liable if their dog caused an injury, regardless of whether or not the owner thought the animal was dangerous. In California, the strict liability statute specifically applies to dog bites although some states cover all kinds of dog-inflicted injuries.
There is no specific type of dog bite injury insurance; however, some homeowners insurance policies cover dog bites that occurred on the insurers property. Also, some insurance companies are not willing to cover all dog breeds and will sometimes shy away from covering a breed that is considered dangerous.
Do You Need Help With A Damages Claim?
Despite being mans best friend, dog attacks and bites can happen in an instant, even if its a dog you have been friendly with in the past. When you’re facing expensive medical bills, are missing days at work and find yourself in pain after a dog bite, you need someone who will stand up for you.
At The Arnold Law Firm, our personal injury lawyers strongly believe that those who caused your injury should be held responsible for their actions. For more than 35 years we have been representing clients throughout the Sacramento County and we are ready to help you today.
Contact us today at (916) 777-7777 to schedule a free initial dog bite case consultation.
