Understanding Dog Bites / Animal Bites Law in California

If you are the victim of a dog bite or other kind of animal bite in California, you need to understand the laws that affect your situation before making any decisions about compensation or settlement. Dog and animal bite situations can range anywhere from relatively harmless to life-changing. You will need to take several factors into account and speak with an attorney to learn your options and understand how to navigate the complicated legal process.

To put it simply, California law is quite clear, in Civil Code section 3342 that dog owners are liable for any physical damage suffered by a person in a public or reasonable private residence or dwelling. So, if you are a dog owner, it’s important to make sure your dog is obedient and well-trained. Conversely, if a dog or animal bites you while you are acting reasonably, you are perfectly within your rights to seek compensation that aligns with your scope of pain and injuries.

With the right legal and medical analysis, victims of dog and animal bites can increase their chances of a swift and fair judgement for compensation in a court of law, if necessary. In the best outcomes, victims can reach a settlement without the need for a court appearance. If you experience a dog or animal bite, we can help you determine the best next steps you can take as a reasonable course of action.

Please know, there are times when you may not have a case…

California law is quite clear about the instances when dogs or animals can bite without breaking the law. For instance, if you are bit by a canine working for law enforcement, you may not hold the agency liable if you were breaking the law or inciting the animal in any way that proved the attack. Also, if you are being held as the suspect in a crime and get bit, you will not have.

The main takeaway is you need the advice of experienced lawyers who handle dog and animal bite cases before settling with the owner of an attacking animal. We specialize in helping citizens of Los Angeles and several surrounding areas, including: San Fernando Valley, Woodland Hills, Van Nuys, Encino, Thousand Oak and North Hollywood. Contact us to talk about your situation as soon as possible. Sometimes, the longer you wait, the weaker your case. And be sure to follow us on Twitter to keep up with our latest legal news, blogs and other helpful info.