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If a dog bit you or someone you love, you can seek compensation from its owner. KJT Law Group can help. We can put over a decade of experience behind recovering the damages you need to heal from your injury.
Our dog bite lawyers in Inland Empire, California, assist clients throughout Riverside County and San Bernardino County, having recovered over $100 million in settlements and verdicts. Contact us online or call today to discuss your legal options. The initial consultation is always free.
KJT Law Group Helps Dog Bite Victims Seek Justice
At KJT Law Group, we treat every client like our only client. We make you our priority and limit our caseload so that we can give you the time and attention you deserve. Our Inland Empire personal injury lawyers roll up their sleeves, go to work, and win.
If you suffered injuries due to a dog attack, our injury attorneys can:
- Collect evidence proving you sustained an injury and have related financial losses
- File a claim for compensation against the dog’s owner and pursue all your recoverable damages
- Handle case-related communications, deadlines, and other details
- Negotiate for the maximum settlement possible
- File a lawsuit and represent you at trial if necessary
What Our Clients Say
Read what clients have to say about working with KJT Law Group:
- “These guys know their stuff. I was at a dead end with a complex legal matter until I had a consultation with this firm. My case settled for more than I ever expected! I would definitely recommend their services!!!” – Aren B.
- “Professional, pleasant, and true advocacy all the way. They really helped me and supported my claim. I highly recommend to everyone.” – Rosalilia M.
To learn more about how we can fight for you, contact KJT Law Group online or call today for a free consultation.
Recoverable Dog Bite Injury Damages
Homeowners and renters insurance policies typically cover dog bite injuries, even if the attack occurred off the covered property. Our attorneys can file a claim against the dog owner’s policy if they have one. Our lawyers can also seek compensation through a lawsuit.
In general, recoverable damages may include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages and future lost earnings
- Physical pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
- Compensation for the wrongful death of a loved one
Liability for Dog Bite Injuries in California
According to CCP § 3342, California’s dog bite laws impose strict liability on dog owners for bite injuries. Strict liability means that dog owners are financially responsible for the victim’s losses if their dog bites someone. This liability covers any attack on public or private property if the person is there lawfully.
Also, unlike other states’ “one-bite rule,” the plaintiff does not have to prove the owner should have known the dog would bite.
However, there are several situations in which a dog’s owner may not be strictly liable. These dog bite defenses include situations involving:
- Injuries other than bites: The state’s dog bite laws only apply to bites, not other types of attack injuries, such as scratches. If you sustained any other type of injury, you can still seek compensation, but you must prove owner negligence.
- Trespassers: Dog bite owners may not be financially responsible if their dog bit someone who was trespassing on private property.
- Police or military dogs: Owners and handlers of police and military dogs are not liable for bite injuries that occur in self-defense (or defense of the handler) during the execution of official duties.
- Victim negligence: Owners may allege that a victim provoked the animal or engaged in other negligent actions that contributed to their bite injury.
We must also consider California’s comparative negligence laws. If a jury believes the victim acted negligently, it can reduce their damages proportionally. For example, if you have $100,000 in losses and the jury finds you 20 percent liable, you would receive $80,000 in compensation.
Dog owners and insurers may try to use pure comparative negligence and other defenses to reduce their financial liability. Our dog bite attorneys understand the laws regarding liability in dog bite cases and how to combat these tactics. We can stand up for your rights and build a solid claim proving that you qualify for full and fair compensation.
Contact KJT Law Group Today
KJT Law Group is here to provide you with the dedicated and aggressive legal support you deserve. Contact us online or call to learn more about working with our dog bite lawyer in the Inland Empire, CA. We offer free initial consultations and take cases on a no-win, no-fee contingency basis.
Call today.
Inland Empire, CA, Dog Bite FAQs
What is the average dog bite settlement?
There is no average dog bite settlement. The compensation you can recover will depend on factors unique to your case, including the severity of your bite, the cost of your medical treatment, and your time missed from work.
How long do you have to file a dog bite case?
The statute of limitations for filing most personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits in California is two years, according to CCP § 335.1. If you do not act within the deadline, the court will likely throw out your case. If you cannot sue, you lose your leverage over the insurance company, so this timeline will also affect insurance claims.
What should you do if you get bitten?
If a dog bites you or your loved one, you should:
- Report the animal attack: You should report dog bites and animal attacks to the Riverside County Department of Animal Services or San Bernardino Animal Services, depending on where you live. You may also want to file a report with your local police or sheriff’s department. These reports will prompt an investigation and be evidence in your claim.
- Seek medical treatment: Dog bites are prone to infection. See a doctor immediately if you have not already done so. Medical attention will safeguard your health and generate a medical record you will need as case evidence.
- Speak with an attorney: Dog bite cases can be complex, and insurance companies usually have their profits, not your best interests, in mind. Our dog bite lawyers can discuss your legal options and represent you throughout every stage of your personal injury claim.