While many view dogs as man’s best friend, even a well-trained dog may bite under certain circumstances. If you or a loved one have been injured, a dog bite lawyer from Jacoby & Meyers can help you explore your legal options. Our firm represents clients throughout California and assists them in navigating personal injury claims.
Should I Call a Dog Bite Lawyer if the Dog was Small?
Whether it’s a tiny dog or something that resembles Cujo, all dog bites are capable of causing nerve damage, scarring, and long-term pain. Regardless of the size of the dog, you should seek immediate medical attention and consider consulting one of our dog bite lawyers.
Consulting with a dog bite attorney is a proactive step in protecting your claim. In California, an owner’s insurance provider may attempt to shift a portion of responsibility onto you by claiming the dog was provoked. Under the state’s comparative negligence rules, if any percentage of fault is assigned to you, your total recovery may be reduced by that amount. A Jacoby & Meyers attorney can help gather evidence to support your version of events and pursue compensation consistent with the documented extent of your losses.
Why Do Dogs Bite People?
Dogs bite people for a number of reasons. Establishing the cause can be important in evaluating liability, and this is where your dog bite attorney may work with investigators or experts to examine the circumstances.
For example, some people speculate about reasons for a bite that may not be supported by evidence. Instead, a dog bite attorney would typically evaluate whether the owner failed to control the dog or prevent a foreseeable risk.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, here are some common reasons for dog bites:
Stress
If a dog is in a stressful situation, it may bite. Situations such as a vet visit or excessive noise can cause stress. Owners are responsible for taking reasonable steps to prevent harm when a dog is under stress.
Startled
Dogs may bite when startled. Owners who are aware of this behavior have a responsibility to exercise reasonable care around visitors.
Sickness
Illness can agitate dogs and increase the likelihood of biting. Owners should take precautions if their dog is unwell.
Playing
A gentle bite may occur during play. However, some dogs may bite harder than intended. Owners who know their dogs exhibit this behavior should take steps to prevent injury.
Lack of socialization or training
Dogs without proper training or socialization may lash out. There have been cases where failure to train a dog contributed to injury claims against the owner.
Trespassers
Entering another person’s property can sometimes result in a dog bite. Liability may depend on the specific circumstances, including whether the injured person was lawfully on the property and whether warnings were posted. A dog bite lawyer can examine the facts to determine how liability may apply.
How a Dog Bite Attorney Determines Liability in California
Under California law, a dog owner may be held liable if:
- The injury was caused by a dog bite; and
- The victim was in a public place or lawfully on private property when the bite occurred.
California is considered a “strict liability” state for dog bites. This generally means the dog’s prior history is not required to establish liability in many cases.
It is important to understand your rights before accepting any insurance settlement. Some insurance companies may request that victims sign documents that could affect their ability to pursue further legal action.
What Jacoby and Meyers Dog Bite Lawyers Tell Clients to Do After a Canine Injury
Our Jacoby & Meyers dog bite lawyers advise victims to first move to a safe location away from the dog. In some situations, an agitated dog may remain reactive.
Once you are safe, seek medical treatment immediately. Even if the injury appears minor, a doctor should evaluate it. If the injury is severe, call 911 for emergency assistance. You may also contact the police so that a report can be made.
After receiving medical treatment, you may contact our dog bite attorneys. We can begin reviewing police reports, medical records, and any additional evidence related to your claim.
Call Jacoby & Meyers Dog Bite Lawyers Today
While you focus on your recovery and health, Jacoby & Meyers can assist you in navigating the legal aspects of your case. Our team of personal injury attorneys has experience handling dog attack claims throughout California. Contact us for a consultation to discuss your situation and available legal options.
Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries
The following are some common dog bite injury questions:
How Many People Really Get Bitten by Dogs?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 4.7 million people in the United States sustain dog bites annually. Individuals most vulnerable to fatal attacks include senior citizens and young children.
How Does California Law Treat Dog Bite Attacks?
California has a strict liability dog bite statute. This means that, in many cases, a dog owner is responsible for injuries caused by their dog biting someone who was lawfully present, regardless of whether the owner was negligent or whether the dog had previously bitten someone.
What Are the Effects of a Dog Bite Attack?
Some dog breeds have sharp teeth and strong jaws that can cause serious injury. Children are more likely to sustain facial injuries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a significant percentage of dog attack victims under four years old sustain head and neck injuries. Adults are more likely to sustain injuries to the arms and legs, including fractures, scarring, and nerve damage.
Dog bites can result in permanent injuries and emotional trauma. These injuries may affect daily activities and overall quality of life. Jacoby & Meyers represents individuals pursuing compensation for losses related to dog bite injuries.
What Do I Do After a Dog Bite Attack?
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite, document the details and seek medical attention promptly. Write down the breed of the dog, the owner’s name, and any witnesses. Take note of the injuries sustained.
You may contact a personal injury attorney at Jacoby & Meyers to discuss your legal options. Email or call us to schedule a free consultation today at (888) 522-6291.
Michael Akiva is Managing Partner of Pre-Litigation of Jacoby & Meyers. Having started his career as an attorney at Latham & Watkins LLP, a prestigious, global corporate law firm, Michael quickly realized that representing big corporations was not for him. After leaving the firm, Michael dedicated himself to fighting for the rights of the injured. Education J.D. UCLA School of Law, Editor, UCLA Law Review B.S., Finance, University of Southern California, Magna cum laude