What to Know About Dog Bite Claims Involving Children 

When it comes to dog bite injuries, we often think of cases involving adults – not always children. The reality is that five million people get injured by a dog bite each year. But half of those victims are kids who've been on the receiving end. While owners have a soft spot for their furry companions, they should know when family members, pedestrians, even minors are at risk.

The Relationship Between Children and Dogs

Children are naturally attracted to dogs. While there are positive benefits that could come from playing with canines, like a boost in self-esteem and promotion of cognitive development, dog attacks can be worrisome. Parents and owners alike should keep in mind the dangers that might follow when a dog is untrained. Even more so if it is considered one of the following breeds:

  • Pit Bull Terrier
  • Great Dane
  • German Shepherd
  • >Rottweiler
  • >Siberian Husky

If a dog recently attacked your child, you have legal options. At Gutierrez Law, our child injury attorney specializes in handling accident claims concerning unwarranted puncture wounds. Depending on how severe the injury is, it could cost you thousands in medical expenses. We can help you hold the dog owner accountable to ensure you get the compensation your child deserves.

The Legal Consequences

While anyone can suffer from a dog bite wound, children are more susceptible to its devastating impact. At our law offices, we often hear claims like "the neighbor's dog bit my child next door." It might have occurred because of a lack of training, the dog is a rescue with limited time to adjust to a new environment, or the child unknowingly provoked the attack. Whichever the reason, our legal team can determine how to handle your case by assessing the facts like:

  • The size of both the child and canine; Aggressive dogs are known to target and attack immediately.
  • The breed of the dog; Sheer weight and strong jaws can wreak havoc on a child – leaving lasting emotional and physical scars.

California imposes strict liability laws. Civil Code Section 3342(a) holds dog owners accountable when their dog bites someone regardless of if they showed signs of aggression or a tendency to bite.

What To Do After Your Child Was Bitten by A Dog

If a dog bit your child, you should follow these steps:

  • Tend to your child. Make sure they receive medical attention needed for the puncture wound. When soap, water, or topical antibiotics aren't available, try to cover the injury until the paramedics arrive or the next doctor's visit.
  • Retrieve the dog owner's or walker's contact information. They should be able to provide you with information regarding the dog's vaccination records, as rabies require immediate emergency care at the hospital.
  • Reach out to a personal injury lawyer from Gutierrez Law to begin filing a personal injury lawsuit. The least we can do is help you negotiate with insurance companies to prioritize your child's healing.

About The Law Offices of Oscar H Gutierrez

Our law firm specializes in helping those who were injured due to an accident or someone else's negligence. Navigating the insurance agencies and legal framework for compensation can be difficult, especially if English is not your first language. That's why you should call the bilingual lawyers of The Law Offices of Oscar H Gutierrez to make sure you are compensated for your pain and suffering.

When you meet with one of our English-speaking and Spanish-speaking personal injury attorneys, you can tell them how your accident occurred and who might be responsible. Your attorneys will then launch an investigation into your accident and the events surrounding it to find who is responsible. If someone was negligent and their lack of care led to your injury, then they will build a case to make sure they pay your medical bills.

We can also help you with product liability and premises liability suits. Don't leave your medical bills and property damage to chance; instead, hire a law firm that can win you the maximum settlement. Contact our office for a free consultation at 323-999-3500 or email us at contact@gutierrez.legal.