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English Los Angeles dog bite laws allow victims to hold the dog’s owner legally responsible under most circumstances. These laws provide a way for victims hurt by an animal to pursue justice through accountability and compensation. Working with a Los Angeles abogado de mordedura de perro can help you hold the dog’s owner responsible and recover a fair payout for your damages.
Many personal injury law firms in Los Angeles provide free consultations for dog bite victims and their families. You can get advice, guidance, and advocacy from an experienced dog bite attorney.
Does California Have a One-Bite Rule for Dogs?
California does not have a one-bite rule. These are laws that are observed in some states that require a victim to prove the dog has a history of vicious or threatening behavior before they can hold the owner responsible for bite injuries. This makes it more difficult to recover damages in a dog bite case.
California Has a Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
Según el CIV § 3342, all dog owners have a responsibility to keep others safe from their animals. This is true regardless of the animal’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of it. This statute means Los Angeles dog owners are liable for injuries that occur when the dog is in a public place or the victim is lawfully on private property.
Counties and municipalities may also have laws that dictate how owners and handlers must manage their pets. In Condado de Los Ángeles, there are licensing and leash laws all dog owners must follow. This includes vaccinations and an annual license from the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care & Control.
How Do Los Angeles Dog Bite Cases Work? Who Is Liable for My Injuries?
Most dog bite victims in Los Angeles can build a case against the dog’s owner or handler and hold them accountable for the injuries they suffered and the expenses they incurred as a result. These cases often settle without going to court.
Dog bites are generally covered by homeowners insurance policies. Victims often file claims based on the owners’ coverage, and their lawyers negotiate fair payouts with the insurance companies.
How Much Can You Get for a Dog Bite in California?
How much you might recover in a Los Angeles dog bite case will depend entirely on the facts of your case. Some dog bites cause minor injuries, while others can cause catastrophic injuries and lead to amputation, infection, plastic surgery, extensive scarring, and other life-long complications.
When you work with a Abogado de lesiones personales de Los Ángeles, they will help you identify your recoverable damages and document your expenses and losses. They will know the usual costs victims experience and the types of damages generally recovered in these cases. This could include:
- Pain and suffering and other intangible losses for physical and emotional pain, including scarring and disfigurement, fear, anxiety, and PTSD
- Medical care costs, including plastic surgery as needed
- Future care and support for serious injuries and disabilities
- Income losses while you missed work for healing and treatment
- Reduced ability to work and earn for new impairments
- Gastos conexos con recibos
- Wrongful death damages for families whose loved one passed away from their dog bite injuries
In addition to the expenses and losses you incurred, other factors that could alter the potential value of your case could include:
- La gravedad de sus lesiones
- Whether you have lasting impairments, scarring, or disfigurement
- The emotional effects of the attack and injuries
- The insurance coverage available and any policy limits
- Whether you share any fault in the case
What Should I Do If I Suffer a Dog Bite Injury in Los Angeles?
If you or a loved one suffers a Los Angeles dog bite, safety and health must be your first priority. Dog bites have a high risk of infection, so it is a good idea to go to urgent care or see your doctor to clean minor wounds as soon as possible. You may need to go to a nearby emergency department for:
- More serious injuries
- Deep punctures or significant tears
- Bites on the face, neck, or hands
- Injuries to children or seniors
Once you receive treatment and begin healing, contact a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer to learn more about your rights and next steps. They generally provide free consultations and represent clients based on contingency. You should not have to pay upfront costs or fees to hire a personal injury law firm to represent you and manage your case.
Are Dog Bites Reportable in California?
Según el California Department of Public Health (CDPH), all animal bites, especially dog bites, should be reported to the local animal control agency. They are responsible for investigating dog bite cases and enforcing animal control laws.
You can call them to report the bite on your own. If you dial 911 and first responders respond, the police will take care of this step. Your doctor may also report the bite for you if you get treatment.
What Is the California Dog Bite Statute of Limitations?
Según el PCCh § 335.1, California law gives dog bite victims and their families two years to file a lawsuit based on injuries or wrongful death. Missing this deadline could prevent you from proceeding with your case and recovering fair compensation.
Act quickly after you suffer dog bite injuries to contact an attorney and evaluate your options for seeking compensation. Key evidence could disappear if you wait too long.
Discuss Your Los Angeles Dog Bite Injuries With Our Team
En KJT Law Group, Nuestro Equipo has recovered over $100 million for injured clients over the last ten years. When you hire us to represent you, you will work directly with your lawyer. We fight for the money our clients deserve based on the unique facts of their cases. Contact us for a free, confidential consultation with our team.
