What Should I Know About California Dog Bites?

Dogs are a huge part of California life, as more than half of our residents are dog owners. What’s more is, California leads the country in the number of dog parks, vets, and salons — not to mention dog-friendly hotels and restaurants that allow humans to bring their faithful companions with them throughout the day.

While millions of pet owners and people enjoy the love and companionship of dogs, dogs may not react the same way to other people or animals as they will their owners

What may appear to be the sweetest dog on the restaurant’s patio can quickly turn into one the roughly 4.5 million dog bites that occur annually across the country.

At Hanning & Sacchetto, our Whittier dog bite attorneys will provide the experienced representation you need to pursue the dog’s owner for the financial recovery you are entitled to for injuries suffered from a dog bite or attack.

California Has Strict Liability Laws for Dog Owners

California’s strict liability law for dog owners means they are liable if their dog bites someone on public or private property — even when the dog has never shown any signs of aggression before.

Also, any attempt to restrain or control an aggressive dog does not release the dog owner from liability.

In fact, the only time that a dog owner is not liable for their dog biting or attacking someone is if the person who is bitten was illegally trespassing on private property, was in the act of committing a crime on  property, or committing a crime against the owner at the time of the dog bite.

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in California?

Dog bite victims have two years from the date the bite or attack occurred to file a personal injury claim against the owner.

If a victim’s claim is not filed within the two-year limitation, the right to file a claim or obtain any financial recovery could expire.

What Type of Compensation May I Pursue After a California Dog Bite?

Dog bites can require expensive medical care and even time away from work to heal. Depending on the severity of your injuries, the dog bite victim may require reconstructive surgery, psychological counseling, or may suffer from permanent scarring or disfigurement.

When it comes to compensation for a dog bite or attack each of the specific expenses incurred and injuries sustained, whether temporary or permanent, will be included in your personal injury claim.  These expenses can include: medical costs, lost wages, medical dressings or equipment, psychological care, and any additional expenses you incurred as a result of the dog bite.

Contact Our Dog Bite Attorneys in Whittier, California Today

Dog bites can lead to severe physical and emotional injuries. Unfortunately, dog bite victims must often look to someone close for financial recovery, as most dog bites occur with a familiar dog, which means you may have to pursue your family member or close friend for compensation.  In these uncomfortable situations it is often best to have an objective representative assist in the resolution of the claim.

At Hanning & Sacchetto, our dog bite attorneys in Whittier will review your claim and pursue the dog owner’s insurance coverage for your injuries, leaving your personal connection with them out of the equation.

To learn more about our Whittier personal injury attorneys’ experience, contact us at (562) 698-6446 to schedule a free consultation to learn more about your rights and what type of compensation you are entitled to today.