Sacramento Dog Bite Lawyer

Holding Dog Owners Responsible After a Dog Attack in California

Under California law, the owner or owners of a dog are responsible for the actions of their pet. This legal fact usually becomes relevant when a dog bites someone who wants compensation for his or her injury. Dog bites can require extensive and ongoing medical treatment, sometimes including surgery. They often leave permanent scars and may leave the victim disfigured. The dog's owner is responsible for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and the long-term physical effects of the injury.

A dog bite claim is a form of premises liability lawsuit where someone is injured while lawfully on the property of another person. When this occurs, you need a skilled Sacramento premises liability lawyer, like those at Piering Law Firm in Sacramento.

Call Piering Law Firm today at (916) 476-2399 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our dog bite attorney in Sacramento.

Dog Bite Attacks Involving Children

Because children often lack the understanding that all dogs are not friendly and patient, they are often the victims of dog bites and attacks. Young children in particular may annoy or bother dogs, provoking them to acts of aggression. Small children are also less capable of protecting themselves or fighting off an attack, which can result in incredibly serious injuries. Children who have suffered dog bites when they are young can be left with a lifelong reminder of the incident in the form of scars. Unfortunately, children are often bitten around the head and face, and they are commonly traumatized and left with a fear of all dogs.

Scarring often requires plastic surgery, and sometimes multiple surgeries are necessary over time. With children, plastic surgery often cannot be completed until the child has finished growing. This means the child must live through his or her youth with visible scars. Scars can result in damaged self-esteem and psychological issues.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Dog Bite Claim?

When pursuing a dog bite claim, understanding the potential damages that can be recovered is crucial. Some damages that could be recovered in a dog bite claim may include:

• Medical Expenses: Dog bites often result in serious injuries that require immediate medical attention. We can help you recover all medical expenses related to the treatment of injuries, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation costs.
• Lost Wages: A dog bite incident may force victims to take time off work to recover. We can help to secure compensation for lost wages and any potential future earnings that may be impacted by the injuries sustained.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical injuries are not the sole consequence of a dog bite. Emotional distress, anxiety, and trauma can also be significant. We can work to ensure that victims are compensated for the pain and suffering they endured because of the incident.
• Property Damage: In some cases, a dog bite incident may lead to damage to personal property, such as clothing or belongings. We can seek to recover costs associated with property damage.
• Punitive Damages: In situations where the dog owner's conduct was particularly egregious or negligent, punitive damages may be pursued. These damages are intended to punish the responsible party and deter the same behavior in the future.

What is the Statute of Limitations For a Dog Bite Claim in California?

It is crucial to be aware of the statute of limitations when filing a dog bite claim in California. The statute of limitations sets a deadline for carrying legal action, and failing to file within this timeframe may result in the forfeiture of your right to seek compensation. In California, the statute of limitations for dog bite claims is normally two years from the initial date of the incident.

However, it is important to note that certain factors may influence the timeline for filing a claim. To ensure you meet all necessary deadlines and legal requirements, it is crucial to consult with our experienced Sacramento dog bite lawyer as soon as possible.

Contact Our Dog Bite Attorney in Sacramento Today

If you have been bitten or injured by a dog or other animal, you are likely entitled to compensation. The only instances where a dog owner would not be liable are if you were somewhere you were not legally permitted (trespassing) or if you provoked the dog. Absent those narrow circumstances, the owner of the dog will be liable to you for the injuries you have suffered. This also extends to being entitled to compensation even without actually being bitten. If you are knocked over or fall as a result of the actions of a dog, you may be entitled to compensation. Se habla español.

Contact Piering Law Firm today to get started with our Sacramento dog bite lawyer.