Dog bites can result in serious injuries, emotional trauma, and expensive medical bills. If you’ve been bitten in California, it’s essential to understand your legal options and how liability works. California law typically holds the dog owner responsible for the attack, regardless of whether the dog has shown aggression. Knowing how this liability applies to your situation is the first step toward protecting your health and securing compensation for your injuries.
Strict Liability for Dog Owners in California
California follows a “strict liability” rule regarding dog bites. That means the owner is legally responsible if a dog bites someone, even if the dog has never bitten anyone or shown signs of aggression. You don’t have to prove the owner was negligent—only that the bite happened while you were lawfully in a public or private place. This simplifies the process for victims, but also means you must act quickly and correctly to make your case. If you were bitten on someone’s property or in a public space, this law works in your favor and provides a path to financial recovery.
Standard Exceptions to Dog Owner Liability
Although strict liability covers most situations, there are a few exceptions. The dog owner may not be held responsible if you trespassed during the bite. Similarly, if you provoked the dog or were performing specific professional duties, like working as a veterinarian, you may not qualify for compensation under the strict liability statute. These exceptions can complicate your case, and understanding where you stand legally is critical. A knowledgeable attorney can help examine the facts and determine whether the dog owner is still liable based on the circumstances.
What to Do After a Dog Bite Incident
The moments after a dog bite can be chaotic, but taking the proper steps immediately can support your claim. First, seek medical attention, even for minor wounds—dog bites carry a risk of infection. Next, try to identify the dog and its owner. Take photos of the injury, the location, and any visible signs of the attack. Get witness statements if possible.
Most importantly, report the incident to your local animal control agency. Filing a report creates a record of the event, which can serve as vital evidence later. These actions protect your health and strengthen your case if you seek compensation.
Why Legal Support Makes a Difference
Due to strict liability laws, dog bite cases may appear straightforward, but insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. They may argue you provoked the dog or question the extent of your injuries. Having a legal advocate helps ensure these tactics don’t derail your claim. An experienced attorney will gather evidence, deal with the insurance adjusters, and fight for a settlement that reflects the full impact of your injuries, both physical and emotional.
Let an Attorney Guide Your Recovery
If you’ve suffered a dog bite in California, you shouldn’t have to handle the legal process alone. At The Law Office of Scott M. Blumen, we’re here to help you understand your rights and recover what you’re owed. From dealing with medical bills to communicating with insurers, we’ll take care of the legal details so you can focus on healing. Contact us today at (619) 439-1837 or complete our online consultation form to get started.
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Scott M. Blumen
Scott M. Blumen, Attorney at Law, APC offers personalized, results-focused legal help for injury and workers’ compensation cases in San Diego.
