A dog bite can happen suddenly and leave victims with serious physical and emotional injuries. Even a seemingly minor bite can result in infection, nerve damage, scarring, or other complications. More serious attacks can cause permanent disfigurement, significant tissue damage, or life-threatening injuries.
At Shegerian Conniff, we represent individuals who have suffered personal injuries and need experienced legal guidance. If you are searching for a dog bite lawyer in Los Angeles, our team can review the circumstances surrounding the attack, identify potentially responsible parties, and explain the legal process.
California Dog Bite Laws
California has specific laws governing liability for dog bites. California Civil Code Section 3342 generally provides that when a dog bites a person who is in a public place or lawfully in a private place, the dog’s owner may be liable for damages, subject to the statutory requirements.
This can be important because California’s dog bite statute does not generally require the injured person to prove that the owner knew the dog had previously bitten someone or had a tendency to be dangerous. However, the facts of each case matter. Dog bite attorneys in Los Angeles can evaluate where the attack occurred, why the injured person was there, what happened immediately before the bite, and the nature of the injuries.
What If the Dog Attacked You in a Public Place?
Dog attacks can occur on sidewalks, streets, parks, businesses, apartment complexes, and other public locations. If you were lawfully present in a public place when a dog bit you, California’s dog bite statute may be relevant to your potential claim.
If you were injured while lawfully visiting a private property, a dog bite lawyer in Los Angeles can also examine the circumstances under which you were present on the property.
Dog Bites Involving Children
Children can be particularly vulnerable to serious injuries from dog attacks. Because of their height and size, children may suffer significant injuries to the face, head, neck, arms, and other areas when attacked by a dog. A child’s injuries may require emergency treatment, surgery, reconstructive procedures, rehabilitation, or long-term medical care.
If your child has been injured, dog bite attorneys in Los Angeles can also consider the potential long-term effects of scarring, disfigurement, emotional trauma, and other injuries.
