Dog bite injuries can cause severe physical and emotional trauma, particularly when the victim is a child. California Civil Code § 3342 generally imposes strict liability on dog owners for many bite injuries when the statutory requirements are met, meaning an owner may be liable even if the dog has not previously shown aggression, subject to the statute's conditions and recognized exceptions. If you or a loved one has been attacked or bitten by a dog, you may have the right to pursue compensation for medical treatment, reconstructive surgery, and the lasting psychological effects of the attack.
What to Know About California Dog Bite Law
- California Civil Code § 3342 generally imposes strict liability on dog owners for bite injuries occurring in a public place or when the victim is lawfully on private property, subject to the statute's requirements
- An owner may be liable even if the dog has no prior bite history or known dangerous propensities
- Recognized exceptions and defenses may apply, such as for certain police or military dogs, or where the victim was trespassing or assumed the risk
- Dog attacks often involve children and can cause severe physical and emotional trauma
- Common injuries include scarring and disfigurement, nerve damage, infection, and psychological distress requiring long-term therapy
How Yadegar Law Firm, PC Can Help
We document injuries and medical treatment, including photographs, surgical records, and, where appropriate, medical opinions on scarring, nerve damage, and projected reconstructive needs. We identify available insurance coverage, which most commonly falls under the dog owner's homeowners or renters insurance policy. We pursue compensation for medical bills, reconstructive surgery, permanent scarring and disfigurement, emotional trauma, and any lost income resulting from the attack.
How Dog Bite Incidents Commonly Happen
Dog bite claims arise in a wide range of settings: a delivery worker bitten at the front gate, a child injured while visiting a friend's home, a jogger attacked by a loose dog in a Los Angeles park, or a neighbor bitten over a fence line. Bites can also occur inside businesses that allow dogs, at rental properties, or in shared apartment common areas. The circumstances of the bite matter for the legal claim, particularly whether the victim was lawfully on the property or in a public place at the time.
Common Injuries From Dog Attacks
- Puncture wounds and lacerations requiring stitches or reconstructive surgery
- Nerve and tendon damage, particularly to the hands and arms
- Facial injuries and scarring, especially in child victims
- Infections, including from bacteria in a dog's mouth
- Psychological effects such as fear of dogs or post-traumatic stress, particularly in children
California's Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
California Civil Code section 3342 generally imposes strict liability on a dog's owner for many bite injuries when the victim was lawfully on public property or lawfully on private property, and the statutory requirements are met, regardless of whether the owner knew the dog had bitten before. This differs from many other states' "one bite" rules. There are recognized exceptions and defenses; for example, issues can arise involving certain police or military dogs, or when the injured person was trespassing, provoked the dog, or assumed the risk. So the specific facts of an incident still need to be evaluated by an attorney.
Who May Be Legally Responsible
The dog's owner is typically the primary responsible party, but liability can also extend to a landlord who knew of a dangerous dog on the property and failed to act, a dog-sitter or handler who had control of the animal at the time, or a business that allowed a known dangerous dog onto its premises. Identifying every potentially liable party is important because it can affect which insurance policies are available to cover the claim.
Insurance Issues in Dog Bite Claims
Most dog bite claims are paid through the dog owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, which commonly includes liability coverage for injuries caused by pets. Some insurers exclude coverage for certain breeds or for dogs with a prior bite history, and disputes can arise over whether a policy applies. Because the claim is against an individual's personal insurance rather than a large corporate insurer, communication and documentation early in the process are especially important.
Evidence That Strengthens a Dog Bite Claim
- Photographs of the injury, the location, and any signage or restraints
- Medical records and treatment history, including any plastic surgery or scar treatment
- Animal control or police reports
- Witness statements from anyone who saw the incident
- Evidence of the dog's history, including prior complaints or bite incidents
What to Do After a Dog Bite
Seek medical treatment promptly, even for wounds that appear minor, since infection risk from animal bites is significant. Get the owner's name and contact information, take photos of your injuries and the scene, and report the bite to animal control or local law enforcement. Avoid agreeing to informal settlements offered directly by a dog owner before understanding the full extent of your injuries.
How Yadegar Law Firm Handles Dog Bite Cases
Dog bite cases can feel personal and uncomfortable, especially when the owner is a friend, family member, or neighbor, but the claim is typically resolved through insurance, not out of the owner's pocket. Yadegar Law Firm handles these cases directly, guides clients through California's strict liability framework, and works on a contingency fee basis so clients pay nothing unless there is a recovery. Free, bilingual consultations are offered to families throughout Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley.
If a dog attack has caused injury to you or your child, contact us for a free consultation.