Dog bites are known to cause severe injuries, infections, emotional trauma, and serious financial burdens. According to the CDC, approximately 56 Americans died in 2022 due to dog bites. The same report also indicates that the majority of the victims of dog bites are minors. Fortunately, every victim of a dog bite in California is legally entitled to damages by the animal owners.
At BANA LAW, PC, we boast a solid history of successful personal injury claims with significant settlements. Our growth stems mainly from a deep passion for assisting those who have suffered due to such incidents. If you are seeking justice after a dog bite in Fresno, don’t wait to secure legal representation immediately. A Fresno dog bite attorney will investigate your case and build a claim to hold the animal’s owner accountable for damages.
California Dog Bite and Animal Attack Laws
Generally, dog bite laws fall into two categories, namely strict liability and the one-bite rule. The one-bite rule essentially means that a dog owner can only assume liability for a dog bite if they knew or should have known that their dog had the propensity to bite (the dog had bitten someone before). California, however, follows a strict liability statute, which offers greater protection for dog bite victims.
California’s strict liability law (California Civil Code Section 3342) means that a dog owner is held responsible for injuries, even if the dog has never exhibited similar behavior before. This is a significant advantage for victims, as they do not have to prove the owner knew their dog was dangerous. However, strict liability applies only under the following circumstances:
- Actual bite: The victim must have suffered an actual bite from the animal. While the skin doesn’t necessarily have to be broken for the attack to qualify as a bite, there must be physical contact involving the dog’s teeth.
- Lawful location: The attack should have taken place in a public area or while the victim was legally present on private property. If the victim was trespassing, the owner would not be held liable.
It’s important to understand that if an animal injures a person but is not bitten, California’s strict liability rules may not apply. For example, if a large dog knocks someone over, causing them to break their arm, the strict liability law likely wouldn’t cover the incident.
However, you are not out of options. In such cases, liability would be determined based on the dog owner’s negligence, similar to other types of personal injury claims. This means the injured party would have to prove that the owner’s carelessness or failure to control their animal directly caused the injury. These cases can be more challenging, so enlisting the help of an attorney is highly advisable. It is always best to consult with a dog bite attorney to assess your situation for personalized advice.
What Compensation Can I Get From My Claim?
If you believe you have a valid dog bite case, the law allows you to hold the dog owner responsible for the pain and suffering. The legal recovery should restore you as much as possible to the position you were in before the incident. This means covering all losses and expenses related to the animal attack. A Fresno dog bite attorney will help seek damages, including:
- Projected costs of any necessary medical treatment related to the bite
- compensation for the cost of plastic surgery to correct the damage
- Past and future loss of earnings
- Current medical attention for all injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Costs of psychological counseling
Securing fair compensation requires meticulous documentation and a strong legal strategy. At BANA LAW, PC, we investigate each case meticulously, gather pertinent evidence, and consult with experts to seek their opinion on how the injury affected you. This enables us to fight aggressively for compensation that reflects what you went through.
"Even now, after our case is over, Ryan is still there for us whenever we need him. They're good people."
NO FEES UNLESS WE WIN GUARANTEE
NO FEES UNLESS WE WIN GUARANTEE
What to Do After a Dog Bite or Animal Attack
Following a dog bite in Fresno, you can likely feel disoriented and frightened. However, you need to take some steps to protect your health and lay the basis for your legal claim. The personal injury team highlights the following steps to take after an animal attack in Fresno:
- Remain calm and get to a safe place away from the animal.
- Report the incident to law enforcement by calling 911. This establishes an official record of the attack.
- If you are physically able, clean the open wound to help prevent infection. This is basic first aid, and you should still seek professional medical attention.
- Make sure to go to the hospital to get treatment for your injuries. Dangerous infections can develop quickly in dog bite wounds, and prompt medical care is essential to get proper medical treatment. Medical records also serve as compelling evidence linking your injuries to the dog bite.
- Be sure to take photos and videos of your bite injuries, the scene of the animal attack, and the dog if it is safe to do so.
- If possible, obtain the dog owner’s name, address, and contact information.
Crucially, do not speak with the dog owner or any representative of the owner, including insurance adjusters, after the accident. Instead, contact a Fresno dog bite lawyer immediately. At BANA LAW, PC, we have extensive experience with these types of cases. We understand how insurers operate and how they might take advantage of those who are not represented by counsel. We are committed to protecting your rights and ensuring you don’t inadvertently say or do anything that could harm your claim.
It’s also essential to be conscious of the legal timeline for launching a personal injury claim. In California, you have two years from the date of the animal attack to initiate a lawsuit. Failing to file within this timeframe could mean forfeiting your right to recover dog bite damages and bearing the burden of your injuries alone.
"I felt very protected, especially the way Ryan answered any question I had. I was very happy with the results of my case."
NO FEES UNLESS WE WIN GUARANTEE
NO FEES UNLESS WE WIN GUARANTEE
Let a Fresno Dog Bite Attorney Help With Your Case Today
Have you or a loved one been the victim of a dog bite in Fresno, CA? You have the right to take legal action to recover compensation for your damages. You have the right to take legal action to recover compensation for your damages. However, the law considers various aspects of your case to determine its validity. It is in your best interest to engage a lawyer from the onset to guide you professionally. Contact a dog bite lawyer at BANA LAW, PC, today to discuss your case and receive legal guidance. We offer a free case evaluation.
"We use over 100 years of combined legal experience to help our clients get the maximum compensation available under the circumstances."
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