Most people treat their pet dogs as part of the family, look for them when they’re lost, feel worried when they’re not okay, and cry when they die. Sadly, these animals can become aggressive and dangerous to other people. They can attack or bite unsuspecting victims who might suffer serious injuries. If a dog attacks or bites you or your loved one causing severe injuries, seek medical treatment right away. Don’t forget to speak with a proficient Los Angeles dog bite injury lawyer to know what are your options and to ensure that your rights are protected. Call LA Injury Group at (818) 240-1800 and schedule a FREE evaluation of your case.
Regardless if it’s aimed at you, a family member, a stranger, or another dog, an aggressive canine isn’t only frightening, but may also result in injuries or legal action. Usually, a dog will attack or bite due to the following reasons:
Possessiveness. Also called resource guarding, a dog becomes possessive or desirous of something. It could be a toy, food, or some objects that are valuable to it. The animal may growl if someone approaches its food bowl or sometimes gets too near when it’s chewing its favorite toy. Sometimes it will also growl when it sees an unfamiliar face coming into the house or property.
Frustration. Dogs don’t like to be on a leash or in a cage for long periods which makes them frustrated. To vent out their exasperation, they attack or bite anything or anyone that they see. An example is a dog chained in a dog house or yard that’s desperate to meet with other dogs in the adjacent yard or street.
Illness and Injury. A dog that is sick or injured is irritable and wants to be left alone. When in pain, the animal becomes aggressive because of stress and discomfort. Possible causes of pain include fractures, internal injuries, and cognitive dysfunction to name a few. It’s not the time to play or mess around with a sick or injured dog or face the consequences.
Show of Supremacy. There are instances when dogs attack or bite to show dominance. It’s usually directed toward other dogs but may also occur with people. When the animal started attacking or biting, it’s because they feel that its position is being contested or claimed.
Fear. Most dogs attack or bite when they sense danger from a stranger or even their owners. Usually, these dogs experienced abuse, neglect by their owners, or a traumatic event. Their fear can also develop into aggression triggering them to attack or bite someone when they feel they are corned and cannot escape or the necessity to defend themselves or their puppies.
If you were bitten, you must not pull away or you’ll have shredded skin and muscle and aggravate the injury and the dog. Given a choice, you better use a free object, such as your sweater or shirt to distract your attacker and escape immediately.
Although you only sustain slight injuries, you may still have a claim. Our skilled Los Angeles dog bite attorney at LA Injury Group can help assess your situation and distinguish what compensable damages you may recover.
Each year countless people suffer from dog attacks and bites in Los Angeles. These injured victims face increasing medical bills and lost earnings including out-of-pocket expenses. It would be best to work with the most efficient Los Angeles dog bite injury lawyer to ensure a proper and complete investigation and you’ll have the appropriate compensation.
Here are some of the compensable damages that you may recover:
In Los Angeles, the law states that dog owners are liable for the injuries their pets have inflicted on victims. They need to compensate these victims regardless if their dogs demonstrated no previous signs of aggression.
However, there are exceptions to a pet owner’s liability under the dog bite law, including:
The statute of limitations in Los Angeles for filing a dog bite claim is two years from the date you sustained injuries. Filing your claim beyond the specified time loses your right to compensation. This executes to dog bite lawsuits according to:
You must file your claim after the diagnosis and treatment of your injury before the expiration of the statute of limitations. If you file a claim before completely recovering, some of the losses will remain unclear. This allows the dog owner and his insurance company to challenge your claim and damages and could result in a prolonged case. If the victim is a minor or under 18 years old, the statute of limitations starts when he or she turns 18.
When you or a loved one suffers injury from a dog bite attack or bite, don’t think twice to contact LA Injury Group for help. Our experienced dog bite injury lawyers will take care of your case and won’t let the pet owner or the insurance company aggrieve you.
We got your back and won’t let anyone disadvantage you. Our compassionate and successful trial dog bite injury attorney will work with you until you got justice and the compensation you really deserve. Call (818) 240-1800 for a free evaluation of your case. We work on a contingency fee basis.