Dog bites can cause serious injuries that lead to high medical bills, emotional trauma, and even lost wages. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced legal team specializes in helping victims of dog bites in San Diego file injury claims to recover medical costs, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Why File a Dog Bite Injury Claim?
Filing a dog bite injury claim ensures that you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities. Here’s why it’s essential:
- Medical Costs Recovery: Dog bite injuries can range from minor lacerations to severe infections or lasting damage. We’ll help you recover the full cost of your treatment, including emergency care, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages Compensation: If your injury has impacted your ability to work, you may be eligible to claim compensation for lost wages and any diminished future earning capacity. Our team will help calculate the full financial impact of your lost income, including potential future losses.
- Pain and Suffering Damages: Dog bites can cause emotional distress and trauma, not just physical injuries. You may be entitled to compensation for the psychological impact of the attack, such as fear and anxiety.
- Long-Term Care: Severe bites can cause long-lasting physical damage, requiring ongoing medical attention. Our firm will seek compensation for any necessary future care, such as physical therapy or reconstructive surgery.
San Diego Dog Bite Laws Overview
In California, including San Diego, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog under California Civil Code Section 3342. This means that the dog owner is responsible for damages if the bite occurred in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior or history of aggression.
IIn addition to strict liability, dog owners in San Diego can face additional liability if their negligence, such as failing to comply with leash laws or other animal control regulations, contributed to the bite incident. This can include cases where the dog was not properly restrained in accordance with San Diego’s leash requirements.
Key Points:
- Provocation Exception: In California, the provocation defense can reduce or eliminate the dog owner’s liability if it is proven that the victim provoked the dog in a way that directly caused the bite. The defense requires demonstrating that the provocation was significant enough to justify the dog’s reaction.
- Owner Liability: In California, liability for dog bites is generally strict, meaning the dog owner may be liable for injuries without requiring proof of prior aggressive behavior.
- Lawful Presence: The victim must have been lawfully on the property where the bite occurred.
How We Can Help
The aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to navigating the legal system. We’re here to relieve that burden. We’ll manage every step of your case, from gathering the necessary evidence, filing your claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, taking your case to court.
Our goal is to ensure that you receive full compensation for your injuries and losses. Whether you’re facing mounting medical bills, emotional trauma, or lost income, we have the expertise to guide you through the legal process efficiently and effectively.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite
Follow These Key Steps After a Dog Bite IncidFollow These Key Steps After a Dog Bite Incident:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if the bite seems minor, seek medical care immediately. Dog bites can cause infections, including tetanus and severe bacterial infections, if not treated properly.
- Document the Incident: Take photos of your injuries, the location of the incident, and, if possible, the dog involved. Collect contact information for any witnesses.
- Report the Bite: Report the bite to San Diego Animal Care Services or the local police department. Creating an official record of the incident helps establish evidence for your claim and may aid in determining if the dog has a history of aggression.
- Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer: The sooner you consult a lawyer, the better. Early legal intervention can strengthen your case and increase your chances of recovering compensation.
By taking these steps, you protect your health and your legal rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a dog bite injury claim in San Diego?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to a dog bite is two years from the date of the incident. If a claim is not filed within this period, the right to pursue compensation may be lost. However, if the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations may be extended until two years after they turn 18.
What compensation can I receive from a dog bite injury claim?
Compensation for dog bite claims in San Diego can include medical expenses (current and future), lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, rehabilitation costs, and compensation for any permanent disfigurement or disability resulting from the bite.
Do I need to pay upfront legal fees?
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
Contact Us
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, don’t wait to get the help you need. We’re here to provide expert legal guidance and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation – there’s no risk and no obligation.