Tustin Dog Bite Lawyer

If you were the victim of a vicious dog bite, you may be owed compensation for your injuries. A dedicated Tustin dog bite lawyer can work with you to evaluate the facts of your case to help you determine whether you have a viable claim. If you do, a determined personal injury attorney can fight by your side to help you get the compensation you deserve.

Dog Bite Laws

In California, any dog owner may be liable for injuries caused by their dog. California does not have a “one free bite law” nor does the victim have to prove the dog was vicious. In most circumstances, if a dog bit a victim, the dog owner is liable for injuries. This type of law is called a “strict liability” case. The California Legislature passed a law that guarantees these rights. California Civil Code §3342.

Exceptions to Strict Liability for Dog Bites

There are some exceptions to the rule that require the owner to pay for any dog bite. One exception includes cases where the victim was trespassing at the time of the bite. In these cases, the owner can argue they not be held liable for injuries. If the dog was in the care of a dog handler, or if the defendant is not the owner but a landlord where the dog resides, then a dog bite victim may only recover if the dog handler or landlord knew that the dog had a propensity to bite.

Is an Actual Bite Required?

One interesting point in the law that sometimes occurs in dog bite cases is the situation where the victim was “bitten” but no bite marks or broken skin appear. Sometimes the dog can rush up to a person, jump on them, or scare them into falling and being injured. Each of these situations require modification of the rules and may differ from a typical dog bite. If someone was injured in a dog bite incident, an experienced Tustin dog bite lawyer can help them understand their rights to compensation.

Compensation for Injuries

Certain types of injuries and financial losses are compensable in dog bite injuries. However, a plaintiff must first prove that the dog caused the injuries and that they were not acting unreasonably.

If a bite victim and their Tustin dog bite lawyer successfully prove liability, the types of compensation that may be able to recover are:

  • Medical bills incurred for treatment of the bite
  • Future medical expenses for treatment of the bite
  • Lost wages and earnings for time used for treatment and recovery
  • Payment for plastic surgery repair of scars and disfigurement
  • Compensation for the pain and suffering suffered
  • Compensation for scars or disfigurement
  • Compensation for any long-term anxiety or psychological injuries

How a Tustin Dog Bite Attorney Can Help

Insurance companies handle most dog bite case defenses and may not have your best interests in mind. In fact, the insurance company generally owes a duty to the owner of the dog who pays the insurance premiums.

The laws for dog bites are complex, a Tustin dog bite lawyer can help guide you through the legal process to seek the justice you deserve. Call to set up a free initial consultation.