Dog Bite Laws in California: What Victims Should Know

A dog bite can be a frightening and painful event, often leaving victims with physical injuries and emotional distress. In the aftermath, many people are unsure of their rights and what steps to take. If you have been bitten by a dog, understanding state laws is the first step toward getting compensation for your pain and suffering. Seeking legal help is important because it allows you to focus on healing while an experienced attorney fights for justice and compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. 

Antaramian Law, APC, provides guidance for California residents who find themselves in this situation. With extensive experience in personal injury claims, the firm helps victims hold responsible parties accountable. Attorney Andrew Antaramian supports clients through the legal process and strives to achieve favorable outcomes for clients throughout California including Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, Ventura, and Kern Counties. 

Understanding California's Dog Bite Laws

California operates under a "strict liability" statute for dog bite cases. This is a key point for victims to understand. Unlike some other states that follow a "one-bite rule," which may protect a dog owner from liability the first time their animal injures someone, California law holds owners responsible from the very first incident. 

California Civil Code Section 3342 

The primary law governing dog bites in California is Civil Code Section 3342. This statute states that a dog owner is liable for damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place. This includes the owner's property, provided the person bitten was not trespassing. 

What does "strict liability" mean for a victim? It means you do not have to prove that the dog owner was negligent or that they knew their dog was dangerous. If the dog bites you and you were legally on the property where it happened, the owner is generally responsible for your injuries. This removes a significant burden from the victim, as proving negligence can be a challenging legal hurdle. 

There are, however, some exceptions to this rule. For instance, if the person bitten was trespassing on the owner's property, the owner may not be held liable. Additionally, if the victim provoked the dog, this could affect the outcome of a claim. The statute also does not apply to police or military dogs performing their duties. 

What to Do After a Dog Bite

The moments following a dog bite are often chaotic and stressful. Taking the right steps can protect your health and support a future personal injury claim. 

First and foremost, seek immediate medical attention. Dog bites can cause serious infections in addition to puncture wounds, lacerations, and nerve damage. Getting professional medical care documents the extent of your injuries, which will be important information for any claim. 

If possible, gather information at the scene. Get the dog owner's name and contact information. It is also helpful to obtain contact details from any witnesses who saw the incident. Take pictures of your injuries, the dog, and the location where the bite happened. 

Report the incident to the appropriate local authorities. This usually means contacting your local animal control agency. An official report creates a record of the event and can help establish the facts of the case. In cities like Los Angeles, reporting helps track potentially dangerous animals and prevent future incidents. 

Finally, keep a detailed record of everything related to the incident. This includes medical bills, prescription receipts, notes on missed workdays, and a journal detailing your pain and recovery process. This documentation will be valuable when calculating the total damages you have suffered. 

Common Injuries and Potential Compensation

Dog bite injuries can range from minor scratches to life-altering wounds. Victims often require extensive medical treatment and may be left with permanent scars. 

Common physical injuries include: 

• Puncture wounds and deep cuts 

• Torn muscles and ligaments 

• Nerve damage 

• Broken bones, especially in the hands, arms, or legs 

• Infections, such as rabies or cellulitis 

• Scarring and disfigurement 

Beyond the physical harm, many victims suffer from significant emotional and psychological trauma. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and a newfound fear of dogs are common. These non-physical injuries are just as real and can have a lasting impact on a person's quality of life. 

When pursuing a personal injury claim, victims may be able to recover compensation for various damages, including: 

• Medical expenses: This covers everything from the initial emergency room visit to ongoing physical therapy or future cosmetic surgery. 

• Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can be compensated for the income you have lost. 

• Pain and suffering: This compensates you for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the attack. 

• Property damage: If your personal property, such as clothing or glasses, was damaged during the incident, you can claim its value. 

An experienced personal injury attorney can help you identify all potential areas of compensation and build a strong case to recover the full amount you are owed. 

Personal Injury Attorney in Los Angeles, California

For nearly a decade, Attorney Andrew Antaramian defended insurance companies against personal injury claims. This work gave him an inside look at how these companies operate and the serious effects injuries can have on people and their families. Driven by a desire to help individuals rather than large corporations, he changed his focus.  

He now uses his deep knowledge of defense tactics to fight for victims and secure fair compensation on their behalf. If you have been bitten by a dog in California, including Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, Ventura, or Kern Counties, call Antaramian Law, APC, for a consultation.