Dog Attacks and Personal Injuries

How Do I Protect Myself From Getting Bit by a Dog?

Dog attacks happen unexpectedly. How you respond when a dog attacks can affect you physically, financially, and legally. However, according to California Dog Bite Law, the dog owner is responsible for the actions of their pet. If an aggressive dog is in the position to bite you, it is typically due to the owner’s negligence. 

Our dog bite attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers understand dog bite laws in California. If you have been attacked by a dog, be sure to contact us to learn how you can earn the highest level of compensation. 

To schedule a free consultation, please reach out to our 24/7 legal team by calling 213-927-3700 or filling out our quick contact form.

Why Do Dogs Attack?   

Dogs may differ in temperament and personality, so there is no true or exact reason for a dog to attack. Runners, bikers, and pedestrians are often attacked because their movement triggers the dog’s predatory instinct. Naturally, many dogs will chase a figure that is in motion, but it is because of human negligence that they did not learn appropriate behavior, which makes the owner liable for their actions. 

A dog could bite for the following reasons:

• It believes it is protecting its territory or members of the pack 
• It is afraid 
• It is prone to aggressive behaviors 

How to Avoid Being Bitten   

In many cases, dog bites happen because of human negligence, whether it is the fault of the dog owner or the person getting bit. If an aggressive dog attacks, the first thing to remember is to remain calm. Avoid eye contact with the aggressive dog while keeping it in your peripheral vision. Claim your space by standing firmly in position while refraining from making loud noises or drastic movements. This instinctually lets the dog know that you are not threatening it nor are you afraid of it.

What to Do if You Are Attacked  

For most people, a dog bite or attack happens unexpectedly. Though you may not be prepared for a dog attack, you still have your defenses. If attacked by a dog, the first thing you should do is create a barrier. Anything you are holding or wearing could potentially be a barrier or distraction that the dog could bite instead of grabbing onto your skin. At the very least, throwing your shoe or hat could distract an attacking dog long enough for you to escape. 

Though a bite to the thigh can cause a fatal wound, be sure to guard your face, chest, and throat as they are places a dog tends to aim for. If you are bitten, instead of retracting, keep the dog latched on until you are able to lift it from the back of its legs. Ripping yourself from the dog will only cause tissue damage.  

West Coast Trial Lawyer Is Here to Help

If you have sustained injuries as a result of a dog bite, our expert dog bite attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers can help you recover compensation for the losses you have suffered, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Contact us today by calling 213-927-3700 or filling out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with our experienced, caring, and compassionate legal team.