Dog bites can cause serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial strain. In California, victims of dog bite injuries benefit from some of the most victim-friendly laws in the country, thanks to the state’s strict liability statute. Understanding how California’s laws apply to your case is crucial if a dog has injured you or a loved one. At National Injury Help, our San Diego personal injury lawyers are here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What is Strict Liability in California Dog Bite Cases?
California’s strict liability law, outlined in California Civil Code Section 3342, holds dog owners legally responsible for injuries caused by their dogs—regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or if the owner was negligent. This means the victim does not need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous or failed to control it.
For a victim to recover damages under California’s strict liability law, they must show:
- The defendant owned the dog.
- The dog bite occurred while the victim was in public or lawfully on private property.
- The bite caused injuries.
If these elements are met, the dog owner is liable for the victim’s damages, even if the dog had no prior history of biting or aggression.
While California’s strict liability law is comprehensive, there are a few exceptions:
- Provocation: If the victim provoked the dog by teasing or attacking it, the owner may not be held liable.
- Trespassing: The law only applies if the victim was lawfully on the property where the bite occurred. Trespassers may not be eligible for compensation under strict liability.
- Military or Police Dogs: Under certain circumstances, the owner may not be liable if the bite was caused by a military or police dog performing official duties.
What Damages Can California Dog Bite Victims Recover?
Victims of dog bites in California can seek compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Costs for emergency treatment, surgeries, medication, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to time off work while recovering.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Scarring and Disfigurement: Damages for permanent physical injuries or scars caused by the bite.
Why Strict Liability Laws Matter in California
Strict liability laws protect victims by eliminating the need to prove that the dog owner was negligent or knew their pet posed a danger. This is especially important for victims who may be dealing with mounting medical bills and other challenges following an attack.
By holding dog owners accountable, California’s laws aim to:
- Encourage responsible pet ownership.
- Ensure victims can recover fair compensation.
- Provide a clear legal pathway for dog bite injury claims.
How National Injury Help Can Support Your Dog Bite Claim
At National Injury Help, our San Diego County personal injury lawyers have extensive experience handling dog bite cases under California’s strict liability laws. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a dog bite injury can take, and we’re committed to holding negligent dog owners accountable.
When you work with us, we’ll:
- Investigate your case and gather critical evidence.
- Calculate the full extent of your damages.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation.
- Represent your interests in court, if necessary.
Contact Our San Diego Attorney at National Injury Help Today
With a proven history of delivering exceptional results, our client reviews and testimonials highlight our dedication to attentive service, clear communication, and achieving outstanding outcomes for personal injury cases in San Diego and across the nation. Let us take the stress out of your claim so you can prioritize your recovery—we’ll manage every detail with precision and care. Contact us today to discover how we can provide the support and advocacy you need to confidently move forward.
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