Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Dog Bites in LA
Nearly 5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States. Victims usually require hospitalization from aggressive attacks and puncture wounds. With nearly 400,000 dog bites happening a month, you might be wondering how you can 1) avoid an unwarranted attack and 2) the steps to take in the event of an accident.
Victims usually feel strange going to court to settle for a dog bite injury. A personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles can assure you it’s necessary if you have costly medical expenses, require rehabilitation, and need to take time off of work to recover. If you’re looking for experienced and dedicated legal representation, you’ve come to the right place. Read on for a list of frequently asked questions.
What Should I Do When A Dog Bites Me?
Before you reach out to a dog bite attorney from Gutierrez Law, you should follow these key steps:
- Identify the dog that attacked you.
- Locate the owner, caretaker, or dog sitter responsible at the time of the accident
- Take photographic evidence of the accident scene, dog and injury.
- Seek immediate medical attention even if the injury is minor. It can get infected and lead to further damage if untreated.
- As you wait for emergency services, look for nearby pedestrians that might be able to testify on your behalf.
What Is Considered A Dog Bite Per California Law?
California law rules that any aggressive act outside of a bite can warrant a lawsuit against the owner. If their dog knocks you over, causes property damage or traffic accidents, you can sue if it leads to severe injury. These cases have strict liability, meaning you don’t need to prove negligence to demonstrate the owner is liable. Victims must only prove the defendant owns the dog, the dog attacked, and the injury caused you hardship or loss.
What Should I Expect If My Dog Attacks Someone?
Suppose your dog attacks someone on public or private property. A dog bite lawyer in Los Angeles would tell you that what happens to your furry companion depends on the nature of the attack and whether your dog has a history of biting. Dogs that exhibit harmful behavior are often categorized in one of two ways: potentially dangerous or vicious.
Potentially Dangerous
The dog has attacked an individual or other canine 2+ times within three years. The wounds are minor.
Vicious
The dog has fatally attacked/killed someone or another animal 2+ times within three years.
Can I Report A Dog Bite in California Without Going To A Lawyer?
Yes! If you feel the dog bite injury does not require filing a lawsuit, you can always contact Animal Control to report the incident. When you go to the hospital or receive treatment elsewhere, medical professionals have a legal responsibility to report your injuries as well.
Would My Apartment Manager Share Liability For A Dog Attack?
That depends. Property managers are only liable for attacks if the landlord rents to a tenant with a dog and fails to maintain the premises. Neglecting to put up a sign or fence can be damaging for their case. To better understand how it could impact you, we recommend scheduling a consultation with a lawyer for dog injuries in LA.
Damages: What Can Injured Persons Recover In A Dog Bite Accident?
- Past, current and future medical expenses
- Past, current and future loss of income
- Therapy and rehabilitation costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship
Do I Have A Case?
A Los Angeles dog bite attorney can help you assess how much your claim is worth! We offer free consultations to review all aspects of your case. Our law firm understands this might be a traumatic time for you. We’ll navigate your case with compassion and dedication. No claim is too small when it comes to dog bite injuries.
About The Law Offices of Oscar H Gutierrez
Our law firm specializes in helping those 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. 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.