Dog bites can have long-lasting consequences that extend beyond immediate physical pain. Victims may be met with not only medical bills and lost income, but ongoing emotional effects, like anxiety and trauma that can disrupt daily life. The circumstances of each case will vary, from bites in public parks to attacks on private property. However, the legal implications will stay significant.

In many cases, pursuing a civil lawsuit is the most effective approach to hold the responsible party accountable, in addition to seeking full compensation for the losses you suffered. Knowing your rights and working with an experienced attorney can help make the legal process smoother. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our team is readily available to manage your case thoroughly, giving you the best chance to recover the damages you are entitled to.

To book a FREE consultation with a Glendale dog bite lawyer, we invite you to connect with us by calling (213) 927-3700 or filling out our quick online contact form.

Why Choose Us?

We handle dog bite cases and work to secure the financial compensation our clients are entitled to. Backed by a thorough understanding of dog bite laws, we are able to implement strategic legal strategies tailored to the facts of each case. Our focus remains on strong advocacy, efficient resolution, and protecting your interests from start to finish.

What Are Common Dog Bite Injuries?

Dog bite injuries will vary based on the force of the attack and which body part is heavily affected. Some circumstances may involve shallow puncture wounds or minor scratches that will heal with first aid. In serious cases, victims may suffer:

• Torn muscles
• Nerve damage
• Broken bones
• Significant scarring

Facial injuries are common in children and may require reconstructive surgery to improve the condition. Some dog attacks also result in permanent disfigurement. Other than physical harm, dog bite victims may endure emotional trauma. Anxiety around animals and post-traumatic stress are common after a frightful encounter. Even if physical wounds heal over time, the psychological impact can remain long after the attack occurred.

Why Do Dogs Suddenly Attack?

It is not as common for a dog to attack “out of nowhere.” In most cases, what seems to be sudden to a person actually may involve underlying triggers that contribute to aggressive behavior.

Fear is a notable factor. If a dog feels threatened, it may react defensively. Pain could also cause aggression. An injured or ill dog may want to bite when touched because it is trying to defend itself. Territorial instincts are another reason. Dogs may react strongly to protect their home, food, toys, or even a person.

Other elements may include the following:

• Past trauma
• Overstimulation
• Lack of proper socialization 
• Maternal instincts when around puppies

In most encounters, there are warning signs before an attack, such as growling, flashing teeth, or stiff body posture. When these are demonstrated, they can be misunderstood. This is particularly why some people believe that dog attacks have happened to them suddenly.

How Many People Die a Year From Dog Bites in the US?

Fatal dog bite deaths in the U.S. are relatively rare compared with the overall number of bites. But they still pose serious public safety concerns. Based on data conducted by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is an average of 43 fatal dog attacks per year nationwide. These fatalities affect adults (50%), children (40%), and infants (10%). Between 2005 and 2020, there were 568 deadly cases.

Within that period, mixed-breed dogs (roughly 59%) accounted for most attacks, followed by Rottweilers (9%) and German Shepards (4.2%). More than 83 breeds and mixes have been involved in fatal attacks since 2016, highlighting that serious attacks can occur with a range of dog types.

Scientific studies also conclude that breed alone does not determine a dog’s risk of aggression. People who neglect these animals, lack proper supervision, or are irresponsible with pet ownership can contribute to fatal incidents. In addition, data points consist of extremely low overall risk of deadly dog attacks (estimated to be around 0.00001%), and a high percentage of fatal attacks involving dogs that were not neutered (84%).

What Is California’s Law on Dog Bites?

In Glendale, and throughout the state, California law treats dog bites differently especially when it comes to liability for injuries and how victims can seek compensation. Under California Civil Code § 3342, dog owners can be held liable for injuries regardless of whether the animal has shown prior aggression or the owner knew or should have known that it could bite a person.

If a dog harms someone who was lawfully present on public or private property, the owner is automatically responsible for damages caused by the attack. The victim is not required to prove that the owner was negligent, the dog had bitten others before, or that it had shown any history of aggressive behavior.

While strict liability laws make it easier for affected individuals to pursue compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, and related losses, dog owners and their insurers can raise legal defenses. Some include proving that:

• The person provoked the dog
• The person was not lawfully present
• The dog was on active duty under law enforcement

How Can I Tell if a Dog is About to Bite?

Dogs usually give warning signs before they bite someone, even if those signals appear subtle. Recognizing changes in body language will give you an idea when a dog may be shifting towards aggressive behavior. To get an idea of what to expect when it comes to a dog showing signs of distress, here are a few things to look out for:

• Growling: This is a vocal warning and usually signals to back away and give the dog space before the situation escalates.
• Yawning: When the dog is not tried, this can be a subtle stress signal used to cope with anxiety or tension in uncomfortable situations.
• Raised fur: A dog may do this when it becomes highly alert or overstimulated.
• Tense body: This is when a dog freezes, locks its gaze, and holds its muscles rigid. Stillness typically happens right before a bite.
• Tail wagging: Such action does not necessarily show a sign of friendliness in every occasion you are met with a dog. A stiff or fast wag can indicate agitation or alertness when paired with rigid posture or a fixed stare.

What Should You Do if a Dog Bites You?

If you are bitten by a dog in Glendale, taking the right actions immediately after the incident can make a difference in your health and in protecting your rights. Whether the attack occurred on a sidewalk, in a park, or at a friend’s home, getting prompt medical treatment and documenting the situation can affect your recovery and any future claim you plan on pursuing.

The following steps outline actions every dog bite victim should consider:

• Seek medical attention immediately: If you suffer a serious injury, you should go to a local Glendale facility, like Glendale Memorial Hospital, USC Verdugo Hills Hospital, or Mederi Urgent Care to receive proper treatment.
• Gather evidence: Take photos of the affected area, the dog, and where the incident happened. Record the owner’s name, contact details, and any statements they made about the situation.
• Collect witness statements: Get in touch with anyone who saw the dog attack and ask them to describe how it escalated.
• Document your losses. Keep all bills, prescriptions, and medical records tied to the incident at hand. These can demonstrate the financial impact of the bite.
• Reach out to the insurance company: If the dog has an owner, contact their insurer to report the incident. Insurance may cover medical costs, rehabilitation, and other losses.
• Get legal support: Consult with a Glendale dog bite lawyer to know how to move forward effectively. California law will allow you to recover compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages caused by the attack.

How Much Money Can Someone Get for a Dog Bite?

When someone suffers a dog bite and decides to seek compensation, the amount of money they may be given will vary based on the intensity of the injury and the specific harm suffered. Under dog bite claims, settlements may consist of economic damages (medical costs and lost income) and non-economic damages (emotional distress and pain and suffering).

Each case has its own unique factors that can affect the value of a dog bite lawsuit. A Glendale dog bite attorney can look into the specific value based on the information presented. You can also use our personal injury settlement calculator to know what you could be entitled to.

Injured in a Dog Attack? West Coast Trial Lawyers Is Ready to Advocate For You

If you have been bitten by a dog in Glendale, you may be eligible to pursue compensation for your injuries. Filing a personal injury lawsuit can help you cover losses you incurred as a result of the attack. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our Glendale dog bite attorneys can go over your legal rights, guide you through the claims process, and help you get the justice you deserve.

To schedule a FREE consultation, you can reach out to us by calling (213) 927-3700 or completing our easy online contact form.