Frequently Asked Questions
Can't find what you're looking for on this page? Feel free to reach out via our contact page or by phone.
.png)
What should I do immediately after a dog bite?
Seek medical attention immediately, document your injuries, and gather information about the dog and its owner. Contact a dog bite attorney as soon as possible to understand your legal rights.
Can I file a lawsuit if the dog that bit me was not provoked?
Yes, California law holds dog owners strictly liable for dog bites that occur in public places or when the victim is lawfully on private property, regardless of whether the dog was provoked.
How much time do I have to file a dog bite claim in Los Angeles?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite lawsuit is typically two years from the date of the injury. It's important to consult an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within this time frame.
What compensation can I receive from a dog bite injury?
Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term effects resulting from the injury.
Do I need to pay upfront for legal representation?
Most dog bite attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless your attorney recovers compensation for you.
What if the dog belongs to a friend or family member?
While it may be uncomfortable, it’s important to remember that compensation typically comes from the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, not directly from your friend or family member.
Can I still file a claim if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
Yes, under California's strict liability laws, a dog owner can be held liable for a bite even if the dog has no prior history of aggression.
What evidence is needed to support my dog bite claim?
Medical records, photos of injuries, witness statements, and any documentation related to the dog’s history or behavior can strengthen your case.
How long does it take to resolve a dog bite case?
The duration of a case can vary depending on the complexity of the incident and whether a settlement is reached out of court. Your attorney can provide a more specific timeline based on the details of your case.
Can I sue if I was bitten by a dog while working?
If you were bitten by a dog while on the job, you may have a workers’ compensation claim in addition to a personal injury claim against the dog owner.
What types of injuries are common in dog bite cases?
Common injuries include puncture wounds, lacerations, infections, nerve damage, and emotional trauma.
Can I still file a claim if I was bitten by a stray dog?
Filing a claim can be more complicated with a stray dog, but you may have options depending on the circumstances. Consult with an attorney for guidance.
Are landlords responsible for dog bites on their property?
Landlords can be held liable if they knew about a dangerous dog on their property and failed to take action to prevent injuries.
What if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?
If the dog owner lacks insurance, you can still file a lawsuit, but collecting damages may be more challenging.
Does California have a 'one bite' rule?
No, California follows strict liability, meaning the owner is responsible even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
Can a dog bite claim be settled out of court?
Yes, many dog bite claims are settled through negotiation without going to court.
What is the process for filing a dog bite lawsuit?
The process typically involves filing a complaint, discovery, settlement negotiations, and possibly a trial.
Can I recover compensation for psychological trauma?
Yes, compensation can cover both physical injuries and emotional distress resulting from the attack.
What if the bite happened at a dog park?
You may still have a claim if the bite occurred in a public place like a dog park. The dog’s owner could be held liable.
Do children have special protections in dog bite cases?
Yes, children are often considered more vulnerable, and courts may award higher damages for their injuries.
How does leash law violation affect a dog bite case?
If the dog was off-leash in a leash-required area, it could strengthen your case against the owner.
Can I sue if a dog attacked my pet?
You may be able to recover damages for veterinary bills and other expenses if your pet was injured in an attack.
What if I was partially at fault for the bite?
Even if you were partially at fault, you might still recover damages under California's comparative negligence laws.
How can I prove the dog owner’s liability?
Liability can be proven through evidence such as witness testimony, medical records, and documentation of the dog’s history.
Can I claim lost wages due to a dog bite injury?
Yes, if your injury caused you to miss work, you could claim compensation for lost wages.
What if I was bitten by a police or military dog?
Special rules may apply, but you could still have a case depending on the circumstances of the bite.
Is there a difference between dog bite and dog attack cases?
A bite refers specifically to injury from the dog’s teeth, while an attack could involve other forms of aggression, like knocking someone down.
Are there time limits for reporting a dog bite to authorities?
While there’s no strict time limit, it’s advisable to report the incident to animal control as soon as possible.
Can a dog bite case involve punitive damages?
In cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm, the court may award punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages.
What should I do if the dog owner tries to settle privately?
Consult with an attorney before accepting any private settlement to ensure your rights are fully protected.
Can I sue if a dog bite aggravates a pre-existing condition?
Yes, if a dog bite exacerbates an existing injury or condition, you may be entitled to additional compensation.
How does California’s strict liability law affect my case?
Strict liability means you don’t need to prove negligence; the owner is automatically liable if their dog bites someone.
Do dog bite cases require expert witnesses?
In some cases, expert testimony from a medical professional or animal behaviorist may be necessary to support your claim.
What if the dog bite caused permanent scarring?
Permanent scarring can significantly increase the compensation you may receive for a dog bite injury.
Can I file a claim for a minor dog bite?
Even minor bites can lead to serious infections or long-term effects, so it’s worth consulting an attorney.
What is the average settlement for a dog bite case?
Settlement amounts vary widely based on the severity of the injury and other factors, but your attorney can provide an estimate.
Can I sue if I was trespassing when the dog bit me?
In most cases, trespassers have limited rights, but there may be exceptions, especially if the dog’s owner was grossly negligent.
Are there defenses the dog owner might use against my claim?
Common defenses include claiming the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing at the time of the bite.
How do I choose the right attorney for my dog bite case?
Look for an attorney with experience in dog bite cases, strong negotiation skills, and a track record of successful settlements.
What should I bring to my consultation with a dog bite attorney?
Bring medical records, photos of your injuries, witness information, and any communication with the dog owner or their insurance company.
Can I still file a claim if the dog owner was not present during the attack?
Yes, the dog owner can still be held liable even if they were not present when the attack occurred.
What if the dog bite occurred on the owner’s property?
You can still file a claim if the bite occurred on the owner’s property, especially if you were lawfully present.
How can I find out if a dog has a history of aggression?
You can request records from local animal control or speak to neighbors who might know the dog’s history.
Can I recover damages for future medical expenses?
Yes, you can seek compensation for anticipated future medical expenses related to the dog bite injury.
What should I do if the dog’s owner refuses to provide insurance information?
Consult with an attorney who can help you obtain the necessary information through legal channels.
Are pit bulls and other specific breeds treated differently in dog bite cases?
California does not have breed-specific legislation, so all dog breeds are treated equally under the law.
Can I file a claim if I was bitten while working as a dog walker?
Yes, you can file a personal injury claim against the dog owner, and you may also be eligible for workers’ compensation.
What if I was bitten while trying to help a person being attacked by a dog?
You may have a strong claim for compensation if you were injured while attempting to rescue someone from a dog attack.
How do I know if my dog bite case is worth pursuing?
Consult with an attorney who can evaluate your case and advise you on the potential for compensation.
What if the dog’s owner is a minor?
If the dog’s owner is a minor, the responsibility for the dog bite typically falls on the minor’s parents or guardians.
Can I sue for pain and suffering in a dog bite case?
Yes, pain and suffering are often a significant part of the compensation awarded in dog bite cases.
What role does animal control play in dog bite cases?
Animal control may investigate the incident, quarantine the dog, and provide reports that can support your legal case.
How do I prove that a dog bite caused my injuries?
Medical records, photographs, and witness statements can help establish that your injuries were caused by a dog bite.
What if the dog was protecting its owner during the attack?
Even if the dog was acting in defense of its owner, the owner may still be held liable for the injuries caused.
Can I file a claim if the dog bite occurred during an organized event?
Yes, you can file a claim if you were bitten during an event, such as a pet show or fair, where the dog owner had a responsibility to control their pet.
What happens if I lose my dog bite case in court?
If you lose your case, you generally will not receive compensation, but you may have the option to appeal the decision.
How does insurance affect my dog bite claim?
The dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance usually covers dog bite claims, which can streamline the compensation process.
Can I claim damages for emotional distress caused by a dog bite?
Yes, emotional distress is a common element of dog bite claims, especially if the attack was particularly traumatic.
What if the dog owner claims I provoked the dog?
Even if provocation is claimed, you may still be able to recover damages, especially if the provocation was unintentional.
Do I need to get a rabies shot after a dog bite?
It’s essential to seek medical advice to determine if a rabies shot is necessary, particularly if the dog’s vaccination status is unknown.
What if the dog was not vaccinated against rabies?
If the dog was not vaccinated, you might need to undergo rabies treatment, and this could strengthen your case for compensation.
Can I file a claim if I was bitten by a dog at a business?
Yes, if a dog bites you at a business, the business owner may be held liable for not maintaining a safe environment.
How do I handle a dog bite case involving multiple dogs?
When multiple dogs are involved, the owners of each dog may be held jointly liable, and an attorney can help navigate the complexities of the case.
Can I sue for disfigurement caused by a dog bite?
Yes, if the dog bite caused permanent disfigurement, you might be entitled to significant compensation.
What is the difference between a dog bite claim and a premises liability claim?
A dog bite claim is specific to injuries caused by a dog, while a premises liability claim involves injuries caused by unsafe conditions on someone’s property.
Can I still file a claim if the dog’s owner has died?
Yes, a claim can be filed against the deceased owner’s estate or the person who has taken responsibility for the dog.
What if the dog bite injury causes complications later?
If complications arise after the initial injury, you may be able to seek additional compensation for these ongoing issues.
Can I file a claim if I was bitten by a service dog?
Service dogs are generally well-trained, but if one bites you, the owner could still be liable depending on the circumstances.
How long do dog bite cases typically take to resolve?
The timeline varies, but dog bite cases can take several months to a few years to resolve, depending on the complexity and whether a settlement is reached.
Can I sue if the dog bite causes an infection?
Yes, infections are a common result of dog bites, and you can seek compensation for medical treatment and related damages.
Get a Free Case Review
Reach out for a free, no-obligation case review and find out how we can help you with your dog bite claim.
No Upfront Fees · No Fee Unless We Win