California is a perfect place to take dogs for a walk. These animals have been proven to benefit their owners, especially the blinds. However, canines can sometimes show aggressive behavior or unnecessary interactions. If you or your loved one experienced a dog bite or attack, contact a California dog bite and attack lawyer to know if you have a claim.
California Dog Bite and Attack Lawyer: Why Do Dogs Bite or Attack?
Dog bites can range from minor scratches to major cuts and deep puncture gashes. Abusive or irresponsible pet owners are the most common cause of dog bites and attacks. Careless owners can make their pets go berserk easily.
When dog owners lose control of their pets, dangerous interactions happen between animals and humans. It is because of the following:
- Disregardful animal care
- Insufficient dog medical care
- Animal abuse or maltreatment
- Dangerous animal
If you have been attacked or bitten by a dog, a reputable California dog bite and attack lawyer can help with your case. He can acquire professional testimonies from expert medical staff regarding the degree of your injuries and diagnosis.
What Common Injuries Do Victims Get from Dog Bites and Attacks?
Dog bite victims usually necessitate considerable medical attention. It’s because of possible chances of inflammation and infection from bacteria or disease the dog might be carrying. You’ll need antibiotics and check-ups to make sure you’re free from rabies and other illnesses.
This routine is expensive, and you’ll need a sufficient amount of money. A California dog bite and attack lawyer can help maximize your compensation so you can continue your treatment for any of the following injuries you sustained:
- Psychological trauma
- Head injury
- Amputation of fingers and nose
- Broken bones due to falling from an attack
- Facial scarring and disfigurement
- Cuts, lacerations, and bruises
- Severe infections, such as rabies
- Eye injuries
- Traumatic brain/serious injury
- Nerve damage
- Back injury
What Kind of Damages Can Dog Bites Inflict on Victims?
Dog bites can cause several damages to a victim. Some of these include:
- Medical overheads
- Lost future income
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Property damage
Who is Responsible for Dog Bites and Attacks?
California is a “strict liability” state with laws stating that the pet owner is responsible for another person’s injury due to dog bites and attacks. The animal owner cannot dispute the following:
- The dog owner didn’t know his pet could be dangerous
- The dog owner took care to prevent his pet from hurting or harming an individual
The strict liability dog bite law implements even if the animal hasn’t previously bitten anyone or has no history of ferociousness against people. Moreover, the dog owner becomes strictly liable when:
- The victim suffered bites even if the bite didn’t pierce the skin
- The victim was in a “lawfully in a private place” or public place when the bite or attack occurred
- The victim is doing his duty, for instance, delivering mail, is lawfully on private property
However, there are also exceptions to the rule. The strict liability law won’t apply if a victim endured a dog bite or attack from police or military dogs. These dogs could be on duty or protecting themselves against annoying demeanors.
What Types of Compensation Can You Get?
Each year, over 800,000 Americans get medical treatment due to dog bites. The statistics don’t count other kinds of injuries, such as a dog knocking someone over. If a dog caused your injuries, the pet owner might need to pay compensation, which includes:
Medical Bills
This is the number one expenditure resulting from dog bites and attacks. It encompasses doctor’s fees, hospital services, physical therapy, and other important psychological treatment expenses.
Loss of Income
As a victim, you’re eligible to receive compensation for any lost income. You need to file a claim with the help of a skilled California dog bite and attack lawyer. These are for the days that you missed work because you need to rest for total recovery. You are also entitled to receive payment for lost future income.
Pain and Suffering
Dog bites are more than just skin deep. Regardless of the victim’s age, he can have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He might experience nervousness, sleeplessness, or fear of dogs (cynophobia).
Loss of Consortium or Services
The dog-bite victim received this compensation when the injuries had adversely affected his relationship with his spouse. It includes loss of interaction or affection. Other states would allow payment for the affected parent-child relationship if one of them suffered injuries.
Call a California Dog Bite and Attack Lawyer Today
If you or your loved one is a dog-bite victim, don’t hesitate to call the Benjamin Law Firm. Our reputable California dog bite and attack lawyers will be glad to help you with your dog bite claim. We’re always ready to help and work on a contingency basis.
Contact us today at (818) 423 4878, and let’s discuss your case at no obligation.
Big Ben Lawyers
144 N Glendale Ave.
Suite 250
Glendale, CA 91206