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Who is Liable for a Dog Bite Injury in California?

March 20, 2022 
by LA Injury Group

Several times that dogs prove they are men’s best friends. Blind people have a dog by their side to guide them where they are going. Some become military dogs that help capture criminals and find illicit drugs. 

However, some dogs bite and attack people for other reasons. There were reports of joggers being bitten in California and bicyclists being chased. Who becomes responsible if these people suffer injuries from dog attacks or bites?

For several canines, their bark is more threatening than their bite. But for people, the bite is just as tragic. If you or a loved one suffers injuries from a dog attack or bite, seek immediate medical treatment. Also, don’t hesitate to speak with a credible dog bite injury lawyer in California to protect your rights and seek compensation for your medical expenses and more.

Dog Bite Injury lawyer in California

Why Do Dogs Attack or Bite?

There are more than one reasons why dogs attack or bite. Sadly, most people usually miss the warning signs of the impending bite. Dogs generally try to communicate pain or irritation before they attack or bite. Initially, they would bark, growl, or snap at the air. This animal has different reasons why it attack or bites.

Fear

Most dogs bite out of fear that the person will attack it. When someone or something gets too close to it, a dog can become fazed and may react by biting. In this situation, the dog wants you to back off and leave it alone. 

Agitated or Stressed

Canines can bite if agitated or stressed, especially if they are napping or sleeping. They may become abnormally sensitive and bite the person who disturbed them. The bite could take both the dog and the person by surprise. This commonly happens with older dogs with reduced sight or hearing. 

Defending or Safeguarding

Like people, dogs are also possessive of their things. They would protect their toys, food, or beddings. It’s also natural that they will protect where they live or defend their owner’s house from intruders.  

Frustration

Dogs also feel frustrated if they don’t get what they want. They feel confined in a discomforting or troublesome situation, which could lead to biting. This behavior arises when the animal is held back by its owner or leash. At times, it’s known as redirecting or a redirected bite.

Aching

When dogs are sick or aching, they feel irritated. The stressful situation can scare or overwhelm them. Even the most behaved dogs can bite if aggravated while feeling hurt because of sickness or injury.

Playfulness

Sometimes a dog will bite because of too much excitement when playing. It could be that it's carried away, and it’s natural for animals to mouth while playing with each other. Ask a trainer if you think your dog’s mouthing is no longer normal.

Liability in Dog Bite Injury

Generally, dog owners are lawfully responsible for bites and other injuries because of their pet’s behavior. However, there are instances when the pet owner shouldn’t take all the blame. Such situations include: 

  • Another person aside from the owner cares for or has control over the dog
  • The dog owner is under 18 years old 
  • The owner’s landlord was aware of the dog’s vicious behavior but failed to do anything

When you or a loved one experienced a dog bite attack or injury, what comes to your mind is how to protect your legal rights. You’ll also wonder what your options could be. The best thing to do is contact a professional Los Angeles dog bite injury lawyer who knows the dog bite laws in California.

What Do You Need to Prove in a Dog Bite Injury Claim?

When filing a claim for a dog bite injury, there are things that you need to prove. Hiring a skilled Los Angeles dog bite injury lawyer would be best to defend you. Insurance companies have their own lawyers to contest your claim, and you’ll need someone dependable to counteract them. Here’s what you need to prove, and being able to prove them entitles you to monetary compensation.

  • The defendant owned the dog that apparently bit the victim
  • The dog bit the victim who was in a public area or legally on private property
  • The victim sustained harm
  • The owner’s dog contributed to the harm or victim’s injury

Filing a Dog Bite Injury Claim? Call the LA Injury Group

There’s more to filing a dog bite injury claim. You also need to provide records of your medical treatment, medical bills, and other expenses. It is indeed a daunting process and is difficult if your injury prevents you from gathering and presenting the necessary documents.

Our compassionate but experienced dog bite injury lawyers at LA Injury Group will protect your rights and maximize your compensation. We work harder to protect our clients’ legal rights and ensure they get the compensation they deserve. We’ll do the same thing for you or your loved one.

Call (818) 240-1800 and let us hear about your case at no obligation. We also work on a contingency fee. Our team will fight for you until the end.

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