Dog owners should always take the right precautions when it comes to keeping their pets on leashes and away from possible bite incidents. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. While some dog bite accidents are not serious, other incidents can leave vulnerable people with severe injuries. It can be especially difficult when the accident is caused by the negligence of the dog’s owner or caretaker.
Have you been involved in a dog bite accident? What should you do after one of these incidents? Who is liable, and what damages can you recover? Read on to learn more. HHJ Trial Attorneys is a committed Oceanside dog bite accident attorney law firm that helps injured victims fight for compensation.
We are San Diego’s Award-winning personal injury law firm. In the last three years, our San Diego personal injury lawyers have won tens of millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients. HHJ Trial Attorneys have been featured in the San Diego local news (ABC 10News San Diego) for recovering some of most challenging personal injury cases in southern California.
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About 4.5 million people in the country are bitten by dogs each year. Where does the state of California fall when it comes to dog bite accidents? In 2022, California was deemed to have the highest number of dog bite claims with 1,954 claims. Dogs are one of the top household pets, but they come with a large responsibility.
Dog bite accidents can be quite common. This can be especially true if pet owners let their dogs wander without a proper leash. Letting a dog loose without a leash can be dangerous for other people who may be exercising or walking their dogs. A dog bite accident may occur if a dog attacks an unsuspecting jogger, or perhaps a dog owner is trying to defend their own smaller pet from an aggressive dog.
A dog bite accident can happen unexpectedly. One minute you may be taking a stroll through your neighborhood, and the next you may be dealing with an excruciating dog bite injury. In the moment, you may be overwhelmed by feelings of adrenaline, worry, and fear. If you, your child, or another loved one was involved in an Oceanside dog bite accident, there are a few things you should do.
Being involved in a dog bite accident with an aggressive dog can be a traumatic experience that leaves you with painful injuries. However, completing the steps above can help ensure injuries are treated. Also, you want to make sure that your local community becomes aware of the possible danger this dog may be to other adults, children, and pets. Talking with an Oceanside dog bite accident attorney can help you start to build your dog bite accident claim. Seeking medical attention, reporting the dog bite to the proper authorities, and getting photos of the injuries and attacking dog can be strong evidence that can further support your claim.
When it comes to who may be liable for a dog bite accident, there can be a few parties.
First and foremost, the owner of the dog will most likely be liable. This is because dog owners have the duty of care for restraining, training, and controlling the dog. This also includes the responsibility of making sure their dog is properly leashed and has the proper fencing to keep them away from the general street and other people.
California Civil Code Section 3342 states that a dog’s owner is liable for the ensuing damages that ensue when a person is bitten by a dog in a public place, or if the victim is lawfully in a private place. This is regardless of the dog’s former viciousness or even the owner’s knowledge of their pet’s viciousness as well.
If a dog was under the care of a dog walker or perhaps a veterinary office at the time of the dog bite accident, this would make them liable for injuries sustained. This would be because they have taken on the responsibility for the dog and its actions during its time in their care.
If a property owner was in charge of maintaining fencing for the dog’s confinement but failed to do so, they may be held liable for the dog getting out and attacking another person.
If you or a loved one suffered a dog bite attack but are not sure who may be held liable, consult with an Oceanside dog bite accident lawyer. Many people fail to see the importance of talking with a legal expert, which can often be detrimental toward their claim. An attorney with the proper experience will know what to do. They will listen to your story and provide you with expert knowledge when it comes to proving liability and how to build your claim.
Proving liability for a dog bite accident means you would have to prove:
When it comes to proving liability, this can be done with various forms of evidence. For example, photos of the accident scene, injuries, and the dog would be key. Also, proof of the ownership of the dog, medical documentation, and witness testimony. Working with a dog bite accident attorney ensures this evidence can be collected and successfully integrated into your claim. Sit down with an Oceanside dog bite accident lawyer as soon as possible!
Have you just suffered an Oceanside dog bite accident? Are you going through the recovery process? What can a personal injury claim obtain for you? There are several expenses the compensation from a dog bite accident claim can cover. These include:
When you go through the terrifying ordeal of a dog bite accident, you shouldn’t pay for related expenses out of your own pocket. This is especially true if the accident was caused by the negligence of the dog owner/caretaker. In order to fight for compensation, you have to make sure to file your claim within two years from the date of the attack, which is the typical statute of limitations for personal injury cases. Failing to file before this deadline can make it impossible to fight for damages from the accident. Speak with a lawyer to get started.
Dog bite accidents can leave people with serious and painful injuries. If you or a loved one have suffered from a dog bite accident, you may be able to file a personal injury claim for compensation. It is crucial you sit down with an Oceanside dog bite accident attorney to discuss your case. Many people are able to successfully file a personal injury claim and hold reckless dog owners or other parties responsible.
HHJ Trial Attorneys has been serving Oceanside for years when it comes to representation in the aftermath of accidents. Our team of dedicated attorneys will not hesitate to fight for the rights of injured victims. If you are looking for unmatched legal representation for your dog bite accident in the city of Oceanside, give our firm a call. Get started on your claim today by booking your consultation with an expert Oceanside dog bite accident attorney from HHJ Trial Attorneys.
