Understanding Dog Bites: Occurrence, Consequences, Liability and Compensation

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.7 million dog bites happen in the United States every year. Some 800,000 of these dog bites require medical attention, which can be expensive. If a dog bite or attack has caused you injury, you may be entitled to compensation. It is important to seek sound legal advice to learn about your rights. At Law Eagles, our attorneys can help.

California enforces strict liability in most dog bite cases with few exceptions. There is no so-called “one bite rule” or disputed liability, but limited exceptions to the California dog bite liability laws may apply. In most cases, when a dog bite injures a person, the dog owner is liable for the bite regardless of the circumstances.

Injuries from Dog Bites

Dog bite injuries can be catastrophic and may include:

• Infection
• Puncture wounds
• Abrasion or contusion
• Dislocation or broken bone
• Laceration

These are only the immediate physical aspects. Emotional pain and suffering may include:

• A lifelong fear of dogs
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Scarring and disfigurement

If you have been left with disfigurement or scars, you may be compensated for the costs of repairing or reducing the appearance of scars. Doctors may recommend repeat surgery in the future. It is important to include any projected costs for future plastic surgery in your injury claim.

Get the Help You Need After Suffering from a Dog Bite

If you have been injured by a dog bite, you may be eligible to collect compensation for:

• Pain and suffering
• Medical bills
• Loss of past and future income and earning capacity
• Future medical expenses, including mental health counseling and repeated surgeries

Let our attorneys evaluate your serious dog bite or attack. If you have trouble collecting on insurance, we are well-prepared to help you overcome any roadblocks in your case. Call The Law Eagles at 619-839-7403 or send an email inquiry to set up a free initial consultation and case analysis.