Dog Bite Lawyer in Los Angeles

Fighting for Your Rights and Compensation

Dog bites can cause serious physical injuries and emotional trauma. At LA Injury Lawyers, we understand the unique challenges these cases present, from navigating liability laws to dealing with uncooperative insurance companies. Our dedicated team is here to provide personalized legal support to help you secure the compensation and justice you deserve.

We manage every aspect of your case, including investigating the incident, gathering evidence, and negotiating with the responsible party or their insurer. Whether it’s covering medical expenses, lost wages, or emotional distress, we are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you.

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Why Choose LA Injury Lawyers

Dog bite victims trust LA Injury Lawyers for our proven expertise and compassionate representation. We provide:

Expert Legal Guidance: Specializing in dog bite cases to maximize compensation.

Full-Service Representation: Handling investigations, evidence collection, and legal proceedings.

Aggressive Advocacy: Standing up to insurance companies to secure fair compensation.

 

$11 M
Settlement

Brain injury victim

$10 M
Settlement

Car accident victim

$8.2 M
Settlement

Motorcycle
accident victim

$7 M
Settlement

Back injury victim

Dog bites are not just painful; they can lead to life-altering physical, emotional, and financial consequences. At LA Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to providing expert legal representation to victims of dog attacks throughout Los Angeles. With decades of experience in personal injury law, we have helped countless clients secure the justice and compensation they deserve. Let us take on the legal battle while you focus on healing. 

Why Dog Bite Cases Are Unique

Unlike other personal injury cases, dog bite incidents often involve unique factors such as:

  • Strict Liability: California’s laws make it easier for victims to claim compensation, but proving damages requires a skilled legal strategy.
  • Personal Relationships: Many dog bite cases involve neighbors, friends, or family members, making it emotionally complex.
  • Medical Complexity: The nature of dog bite injuries often involves specialized treatment, from plastic surgery to psychological counseling, increasing the importance of securing full compensation.

Dog Breeds Commonly Involved in Attacks

While any dog can bite, some breeds are more frequently involved in attacks due to their size, strength, or temperament. These include:

  1. Pit Bulls: Responsible for a large percentage of severe attacks nationwide.
  2. Rottweilers: Known for their strength and protective instincts, which can sometimes escalate into aggression.
  3. German Shepherds: Often trained as guard dogs, they can bite when they perceive a threat.
  4. Bulldogs: While often docile, their powerful jaws can cause significant damage during an attack.
  5. Mixed Breeds: Dogs without known behavioral histories may exhibit unpredictable behavior.

Important Note: The breed of the dog does not excuse the owner from liability. Whether it’s a Chihuahua or a Mastiff, the owner controls their pet.

In this Section

Unlock the full potential of your personal injury case with our dedicated legal services. At LA Injury Lawyers, we specialize in securing justice and maximum compensation for individuals like you who deserve the best representation.

Preventing Dog Bite Incidents

Dog bites are preventable in most cases. Both dog owners and the general public can take steps to reduce the likelihood of an attack:

Tips for Dog Owners:

  1. Proper Training: Ensure dogs are socialized and trained to respond to basic commands.
  2. Secure Property: Install fences or gates to prevent dogs from escaping.
  3. Leash Laws: Always keep dogs on a leash in public, as Los Angeles ordinances require.
  4. Vaccinations: Keep dogs vaccinated, particularly for rabies.
  5. Supervision: Never leave dogs unattended with young children or strangers.

Tips for the Public:

  • Avoid approaching unfamiliar dogs, especially if they are eating, sleeping, or with their puppies.
  • Do not run or scream if confronted by an aggressive dog, as this can trigger a predatory response.
  • Teach children to ask for permission before petting a dog and to avoid rough play.

What Sets LA Injury Lawyers Apart in Dog Bite Cases?

At LA Injury Lawyers, we are passionate about achieving justice for victims of dog attacks. Here’s why clients trust us:

  • Expert Negotiators: We work aggressively with insurance companies to secure the maximum settlement possible.
  • Trial-Ready Team: If a settlement isn’t in your best interest, we will take your case to court.
  • Comprehensive Support: We handle every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence to coordinating with medical experts.
  • Compassionate Advocates: We understand the emotional toll of a dog attack and provide personalized, empathetic representation.

The Role of Insurance in Dog Bite Cases

In many dog bite cases, the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy will cover the victim’s damages. However, navigating insurance claims can be challenging:

  • Denied Claims: Insurance companies may argue that the victim provoked the attack or was trespassing.
  • Underpayment: Insurers often offer lowball settlements that fail to cover the full extent of the victim’s injuries.
  • No Insurance: If the owner doesn’t have coverage, alternative legal strategies may be necessary.

At LA Injury Lawyers, we have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies. We know their tactics and how to counter them effectively.

Key California Dog Bite Laws You Should Know

Strict Liability (California Civil Code § 3342)

The law holds dog owners strictly liable for damages caused by their dog biting another person in public or lawfully on private property.

One-Bite Rule Exceptions

Unlike some states, California does not follow the “one-bite rule,” which excuses owners if their dog has never bitten anyone. Owners are liable even if it’s the first incident.

Trespassing

If the victim was trespassing on private property, the dog owner may have a defense against liability. However, this defense does not apply to children under certain circumstances.

Dog Quarantine

In Los Angeles, a dog involved in a bite may be quarantined to determine whether it threatens public safety or has rabies.

What Makes Dog Bite Cases Complex?

Dog bite cases may seem straightforward under California’s strict liability law, but several factors can complicate them:

  1. Provocation Claims: The dog owner may argue that the victim provoked the attack, shifting blame.
  2. Shared Liability: If another party (e.g., a landlord) shares responsibility, determining liability can be complex.
  3. Severity of Injuries: Proving long-term damages like PTSD or permanent scarring requires expert medical testimony.
  4. Children as Victims: Special considerations apply when children are involved, as they are more likely to be severely injured and may require long-term psychological care.

Our attorneys specialize in untangling these complexities to ensure a favorable outcome for our clients.

Contact LA Injury Lawyers Today

Dog bite injuries deserve swift and effective legal action. At LA Injury Lawyers, we are here to fight for the compensation you need to recover fully. Contact us today or complete our online consultation form to schedule a free case evaluation.

Areas We
Specialize In

We provide compassionate legal support for individuals facing challenges from personal injuries. Whether it’s a slip and fall, workplace injury, or medical malpractice, our team is here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

01

Car Accident

02

Motorcycle Accident

03

Bicycle Accident

Frequently Asked Questions

If the dog owner denies responsibility or refuses to provide insurance information, don’t panic. Document as much as possible about the incident, including photographs of your injuries, the location, and any witness statements. Then, contact an attorney immediately. At LA Injury Lawyers, we can investigate the situation, identify the liable party, and take legal action to protect your rights.

Yes, even a seemingly minor bite can lead to serious complications such as infections, nerve damage, or permanent scarring. You have the right to seek compensation for all medical expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional distress caused by the incident. An experienced attorney can help you determine the value of your case, even if your injuries initially appear minor.

Children are at a higher risk of severe physical and emotional injuries from dog bites. Beyond medical treatment, they may require counseling or therapy to overcome trauma. Compensation must account for the child’s long-term physical and psychological recovery in these cases. At LA Injury Lawyers, we handle these cases with  and focus on securing the maximum compensation to support your child’s future.

Not necessarily. Many dog bite cases are settled through negotiations with the owner’s insurance company. However, our attorneys are prepared to take your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Rest assured, we will guide you through every step and handle all legal proceedings on your behalf.

At LA Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs. You only pay if we win your case. This approach ensures that everyone can access quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

Yes, you can. If you were lawfully present on the property (e.g., as a guest, delivery driver, or contractor), you can file a claim. California law holds dog owners responsible for bites that occur on private property, provided the victim was not trespassing.

Dog parks are public spaces, and the owner of the dog that attacked you is still liable for the bite. In these cases, gathering witness statements and reporting the incident to park authorities is essential. An attorney can help you navigate liability and seek compensation from the dog’s owner.

Dog owners often use provocation as a defense to avoid liability. However, California’s strict liability laws mean the owner is typically responsible regardless of provocation. Your attorney will investigate the circumstances, gather evidence, and build a strong case to refute such claims.

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case. Many cases settle within a few months, while others may take a year or more if they proceed to litigation. At LA Injury Lawyers, we strive to resolve cases as efficiently as possible while ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Yes. California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% responsible, your compensation will be reduced by 20%.

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