Dog Bite Attacks in Los Angeles
Dog bites in Los Angeles are far more common – and dangerous -- than many of us realize. Indeed, California ranks among the top in the nation for fatal dog attacks and tragically, children are most often the victims of these serious dog attacks. Dog bite victims often suffer a lifetime of painful and life-altering injuries; loss of fingers, infections ,and scarring.
What does California law say about dog bite victims?
California is tough on the owners of dangerous dogs. In California, there is no such thing as a “one bite rule” -- a dog owner is “strictly liable” for the injuries caused by their dog and is automatically responsible to pay for the costs associated with your injuries. In other words, it is not necessary for you to prove that the dog that harmed you was known to be vicious or had a propensity to bite. One bite is enough to show that the dog is dangerous. Section 3342 of the California Civil Code clearly states that the owner of any dog is ‘liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while the person is in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness.
What must a dog bite lawyer prove?
Under California law, in order to recover financially for a dog bite injury, your lawyer needs to be able to show that:
- The defendant owned the dog,
- The dog bit the plaintiff,
- The plaintiff was lawfully on the premises where the dog bite took place, and
- The dog bite caused the plaintiff injuries.
Next steps for dog bite victims
Dog bites can leave permanent physical and emotional scars. If you or your loved one has been injured by a vicious or dangerous dog, do not be afraid to stand up for your legal rights with the help of a skilled personal injury lawyer. For a free, no obligation consultation, contact the experienced injury lawyers at Ghozland Law Firm today.
