Fullerton Dog Bite Lawyer

While dogs provide companionship, they can also be a liability and a danger. Approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the United States alone. In fact, dog bites and dog-related injuries caused 1/3 of all homeowners liability claims in 2017, amounting to almost $700 million in payouts.

If you or your child recently suffered a dog bite, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. A Fullerton dog bite lawyer could review your case and determine if it has legal standing. Contact a compassionate personal injury attorney to learn more about your rights and your potential compensation.

Consequences of Dog Bite Injuries in Fullerton

Dog bite injuries can be quite serious, and in some cases, even fatal. If the dog bite cuts deeply and/or gets infected, it can cause severe damage to tissues, limbs, bones, teeth, and other body parts. Victims who sustain severe dog bites may incur medical bills in excess of $250,000 dollars.

Victims of dog bites may require extensive reconstructive surgery like scar diminishment, skin grafts, and tissue expansion, especially if their face was bitten. Usually, these procedures are done over several years and can be quite painful. When injuries require medical care for an extended period of time, permanent home care, or rehabilitation, a person may lose wages or have a permanent reduction in their ability to work.

What Non-Economic Damages Are Available?

Fortunately, economic losses such as medical bills, present and future lost wages, and future medical costs are compensable damages. Non-economic losses such as pain and suffering may also be compensable in a dog bite lawsuit. A seasoned Fullerton dog bite lawyer could help an injured victim recover damages.

Assigning Liability in a Dog Bite Case

In some states, dog owners may not be held liable the first time their dog bites someone because they did not have any reason to believe their dog was dangerous. This rule referred to as the “one bite” rule, is not in effect under California laws.

What is Strict Liability?

According to California Civil Code § 3342, dog owners are strictly liable if their dog bites a victim. This means no amount of fault or negligence needs to be proven by the claimant. Instead, the owner is considered legally responsible for the damages. Whether or not the dog has previously been vicious or bitten someone, the owner will carry the liability for the actions of the dog.

Individuals injured in dog bites should contact an experienced dog bite attorney in Fullerton to learn more about how this law applies to their own circumstances.

Talk to a Fullerton Dog Bite Attorney

Recovering from a dog bite may be costly, painful, and take time. Fortunately, you may be able to obtain compensation by filing a dog bite injury claim. Since dog owners in California are held strictly liable if their dog bites you, they may be required to pay for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other expenses related to the accident.

A seasoned Fullerton dog bite lawyer could help you recover these damages from the owner of the dog who bit you. Contact an attorney today for your free case review.