Unfortunately, dog bites and animal attacks are not uncommon in the United States, and they can leave victims with physical injuries and emotional trauma.
As a responsible pet owner or someone who values their safety around animals, it’s crucial to understand the rights and protections afforded to victims of these unfortunate events.
In this blog post, our San Diego dog bite attorneys explore the alarming prevalence of dog bites and animal attacks, shed light on liability in such cases, and discuss the necessary steps to safeguard your rights as a victim.
Table of Contents
The Alarming Prevalence of Dog Bites and Animal Attacks
Dog bites and animal attacks are far more common than most people realize.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.5 million dog bites are reported in the United States each year, with nearly 20% of these incidents requiring medical attention. In San Diego alone, over 2,500 dog bites are reported annually.
These attacks can occur in various settings, from public parks to residential neighborhoods, and can involve dogs and other domestic or wild animals. While some attacks may be minor, many can cause severe injuries, ranging from deep lacerations and nerve damage to infections and disfigurement.
Beyond the physical harm, victims may also suffer from emotional damages, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a lasting fear of animals.
Preventative Measures and Responsible Pet Ownership
While seeking justice and compensation for victims is crucial, focusing on prevention and responsible pet ownership is equally important. Dog owners must recognize their responsibility to train and socialize their pets to avoid aggressive behavior.
Properly securing and restraining dogs in public areas can significantly reduce the risk of attacks. Community education initiatives can be vital in raising awareness about dog bite prevention, including teaching children how to interact safely with animals.
Responsible pet ownership also involves regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and spaying or neutering to promote a safer and more harmonious relationship between pets and people.
Protecting Your Rights After a Dog Bite: Understanding Liability in Dog Bite Cases
In many states, dog owners are held liable for injuries their pets cause to others. This means that regardless of whether the dog has shown previous aggressive behavior, the owner is responsible for the damages resulting from the attack.
If a dog bites someone in San Diego, be aware of the following:
- Notify County Animal Services: As per the San Diego County Code 62.615, you must report the incident to the County Department of Animal Services.
- Mandatory Quarantine: The bitten person’s safety is paramount. By law, your dog will be required to undergo a 10-day quarantine from the date of the bite.
- Quarantine Location: County Animal Services will determine The location and manner of quarantine. In some cases, you may be allowed to quarantine your dog at home if you have a secure enclosure that isolates the dog from people and other animals.
- Vaccination Not a Defense: Quarantine is still mandatory even if your dog has a current rabies vaccination.
- Failure to Comply: Failing to keep the dog isolated during the quarantine can result in misdemeanor charges, and your dog might be impounded for the rest of the quarantine period.
- Release Approval: The dog cannot be released until it is approved by County Animal Services. Staff will assess the dog’s health and check for signs of rabies after the quarantine period.
- Potential Declarations: Depending on the severity and frequency of the incident, your dog may be declared a “Public Nuisance Animal” or a “Dangerous Dog.”
If the owner doesn’t comply, consequences can occur, from a misdemeanor citation to euthanizing the dog.
Proving liability in these cases often requires gathering crucial evidence, such as witness statements, surveillance footage, and the dog owner’s history of responsible pet ownership.
If the attack occurred on someone else’s property, premises liability laws might come into play, holding property owners partially accountable for the incident.
Protecting Your Rights as a Victim after a Dog Bite
If you become a victim of a dog bite or animal attack, it’s essential to take immediate action to protect your rights.
The first and most crucial step is to seek prompt medical attention for your injuries. Even seemingly minor wounds can lead to infections, so it’s vital to have a healthcare professional assess and treat your injuries thoroughly.
After receiving medical care, report the incident to the relevant authorities, such as animal control or the local police department. This report will create an official record of the attack, which can be crucial in establishing liability and seeking compensation later.
In addition, it’s crucial to consult an experienced personal injury attorney, especially one with expertise in handling dog bite cases. A skilled attorney can guide you through the legal process, advise you on your rights, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Seeking Compensation for Damages
After an animal attack, victims deserve fair compensation for their damages. Depending on the severity of the injuries and the impact on the victim’s life, compensation may cover medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
Additionally, victims might be entitled to reimbursement for lost wages due to time off work for recovery. Beyond the tangible costs, compensation can also address the pain and suffering endured, the emotional trauma, and any lasting scars or disfigurements resulting from the incident.
Get the Justice You Deserve With Help From Our Experienced Attorneys at HHJ
Becoming a victim of a dog bite or animal attack can be a traumatic experience with significant physical, emotional, and financial repercussions.
Understanding your rights and seeking the guidance of experienced legal professionals can make a profound difference in the outcome of your case.
At HHJ Trial Attorneys, we protect victims’ rights, advocate for their interests, and fight for the compensation they deserve. Contact us today if you’ve been the victim of an animal attack.
