Glendora Dog Bite Lawyer

With its several parks, trails, and pet services catering to dog owners, Glendora’s pet-friendly community and suburban charm make dog ownership quite popular. But while dogs can be loving companions, it’s important to remember that dog bites can cause serious injuries and should be prevented through proper training and supervision.

If you or a loved one have been the victim of a dog bite attack in Glendora, CA, you’re not alone. More than 1,000 Californians visit the emergency room due to dog bites every day. Dog bite injuries are traumatic, often resulting in serious physical and emotional harm. So it’s essential to understand your legal rights and options. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we help dog bite injury victims hold negligent dog owners accountable and recover the most compensation possible for their losses.

Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or emotional distress, we’re here to support you through this difficult time. Our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys are readily available to assist you with your dog bite case. Call us for a FREE consultation at (213) 927-3700 or complete this easy online contact form. 

Understanding Dog Bite Injuries in Glendora

Glendora, CA, a city located in Los Angeles County, is home to many families and pets. While most dogs are friendly companions, some can cause serious injuries. Dog attacks can result in severe physical and emotional injuries that can be life-altering for victims. In fact, Los Angeles County ranks among the highest in dog bite incidents in Southern California.

What is a Dog Bite Injury?

A dog bite injury is a type of personal injury that occurs when a dog bites or attacks a person, causing physical harm or emotional distress. These injuries can range from minor scratches to severe lacerations, puncture wounds, and even fatalities. According to California dog bite laws, a dog owner can be held liable for damages if their dog bites someone, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or not.

Dog bite injuries can be caused by various factors, including a dog’s breed, size, and temperament, as well as the circumstances surrounding the attack. In some cases, dog bite injuries can lead to long-term health consequences, such as infection, scarring, and psychological trauma. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately and consult with a dog bite lawyer to discuss your legal options.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

• Puncture wounds: These deep, piercing wounds can damage muscles and tissue and are prone to infection if not properly treated.
• Nerve damage: Dog bites can sever nerves, leading to long-term loss of sensation or movement in the affected area.
• Broken bones: A powerful bite can fracture fingers, hands, or arms, especially if the victim is trying to fend off the attack.
• Lacerations: These deep cuts may require stitches or reconstructive surgery and can leave permanent scarring.
• Infections: Dog saliva can carry harmful bacteria, leading to serious infections such as cellulitis, sepsis, or rabies.
• Permanent scarring: Bite wounds on visible areas like the face or arms can result in lifelong disfigurement.
• Emotional trauma: Psychological effects, including PTSD, anxiety, or fear of dogs, are common in both children and adults after an attack.

Children are particularly vulnerable to dog bite injuries due to their size and lack of awareness. Sadly, many dog bite attacks happen in familiar settings like a family member’s home or other private property.

California Dog Bite Laws Explained

California has some of the strictest laws regarding dog bites. Unlike states that follow the “one bite rule,” California is a strict liability state.

The One Bite Rule vs. California Law

The “one bite rule” is a legal doctrine used in some states where a dog owner is only liable for injuries if they knew or should have known the dog was dangerous—typically, after a first bite.

However, California does NOT follow the one bite rule.

What Does Strict Liability Mean?

Under California Civil Code Section 3342:

A dog owner is liable if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully in a private place, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.

This means the dog owner is responsible in most cases, regardless of the dog’s past behavior.

Key Points of California Dog Bite Laws

• Applies to both public places and private property: Victims are protected whether bitten in a park, sidewalk, or someone’s home, as long as they were there legally.
• Victims do not need to prove negligence: You don’t have to show that the dog owner was careless—just that the bite occurred.
• The law protects visitors, delivery personnel, and invited guests: Anyone lawfully present on the property is covered by the statute.
• Strict liability for the dog’s owner: California’s strict liability laws hold the dog’s owner accountable for any bites, regardless of the dog’s history. This means the owner can be held liable even if the dog has never shown aggressive behavior before. Negligence or recklessness by the dog’s owner can lead to further legal repercussions, including punitive damages.

Understanding the Severity of a Dog Bite: Dr. Dunbar’s Dog Bite Scale

Attorneys and animal behaviorists often reference Dr. Ian Dunbar’s Dog Bite Scale, a standardized classification system that helps assess the severity of dog bites:

1. Level 1: Obnoxious or aggressive behavior but no skin contact.
2. Level 2: Skin contact but no puncture—just nicks or light bruising.
3. Level 3: One to four punctures from a single bite, none deeper than half the length of the dog’s canine teeth.
4. Level 4: One to four deep punctures, possibly with lacerations or bruising from the dog bearing down or shaking.
5. Level 5: Multiple Level 4 bites or a concerted attack.
6. Level 6: Fatal dog attack.

Understanding the bite level helps determine the danger level of the animal, the dog owner’s liability, and the potential compensation for the dog bite victim.

The APDT’s Position on Dangerous Dog Laws

The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) emphasizes that laws should focus on dangerous behavior rather than specific breeds. They advocate for:

• Responsible pet ownership
• Early socialization and training
• Behavior-based evaluations of dogs rather than breed-specific legislation (BSL)

This aligns with the approach used in many California municipalities, where authorities assess whether a dog is a dangerous animal based on its actions, not its breed.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Attack

If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, follow these steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Immediate treatment helps prevent infections and documents the severity of your injuries, which is crucial for your claim.
2. Report the Incident: Notify animal control or local authorities in Los Angeles County. An official report strengthens your case and ensures the animal is evaluated.
3. Gather Evidence: Take photos of your injuries, the location of the attack, and the dog (if possible). Obtain contact info from witnesses who saw the incident.
4. Identify the Dog and Owner: Knowing the dog’s identity and vaccination history is essential. You’ll also need the owner’s information to file a dog bite claim.
5. Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer: Experienced dog bite lawyers will help you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims, represent victims of dog attacks, deal with insurance companies, and protect your legal rights.

Dog Bite Statistics and Prevention

Dog bites are a significant public health concern in the United States, with millions of people affected each year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs annually, resulting in over 20,000 hospitalizations and 20-30 fatalities.

To prevent dog bites, it is crucial to take precautions when interacting with dogs, especially if you are unsure of their temperament or behavior. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of dog bites:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on children when they are interacting with dogs.
• Avoid approaching or petting a dog that is sleeping, eating, or showing signs of aggression.
• Keep dogs on a leash and under control in public areas.
• Spay or neuter your dog to reduce aggression and prevent unwanted breeding.
• Educate children on how to interact with dogs safely.

By taking these precautions, you can reduce the risk of dog bites and prevent serious injuries.

Insurance Coverage for Dog Bites

In California, dog owners are required to have liability insurance to cover damages in the event of a dog bite. However, not all dog owners have insurance, and even if they do, the coverage may be limited.

If you are a dog bite victim, it is essential to consult with a dog bite lawyer to determine the best course of action. Your lawyer can help you navigate the complex process of filing a dog bite claim and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

In some cases, homeowners or renters insurance may cover dog bite injuries. However, the coverage and limits vary depending on the policy and insurance company. It is crucial to review your policy and consult with your insurance company to determine the extent of coverage.

How a Glendora Dog Bite Attorney Can Help

Navigating an injury claim can be overwhelming, especially while dealing with serious injuries. A skilled Glendora dog bite lawyer can provide:

• Legal guidance: We explain your legal rights and what to expect during the process.
• Investigation support: Our team collects crucial evidence, interviews witnesses, and works with medical professionals to build a strong case.
• Insurance negotiations: We handle all communication with insurance companies, preventing them from taking advantage of you or minimizing your injury claim.
• Court representation: If a settlement can’t be reached, we represent you in court to pursue full compensation.
• No upfront costs: Our contingency fee basis means you don’t pay unless we win your case—removing financial risk.

Types of Compensation for Dog Bite Victims

Dog bite injury victims in Southern California may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses: This includes ER visits, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and follow-up care.
• Future medical care: Long-term treatments such as reconstructive surgery or psychological counseling are often needed after serious injuries.
• Lost wages and future income: If you miss work or are unable to return to your job due to your injuries, you may be compensated for that lost income.
• Pain and suffering: This non-economic damage accounts for the physical pain and mental anguish caused by the attack.
• Emotional distress: Many victims develop lasting emotional trauma like anxiety, nightmares, or fear of dogs.
• Permanent scarring: If the bite leaves visible scars, especially on the face or hands, you may receive additional compensation.
• Punitive damages: In rare cases involving extreme negligence or intentional harm, courts may award extra damages to punish the dog owner.

Why Choose West Coast Trial Lawyers for Your Injury Claim?

• Local expertise: We understand the unique dynamics of Glendora and Los Angeles County courts and work closely with local authorities and medical providers.
• Free consultation: There’s no cost to speak with us. We’ll evaluate your case and provide clear guidance.
• Compassionate representation: You’ll have direct access to your attorney, so you can have the support you need through a difficult time.
• Results-driven: For over 20 years, our firm has been driven to achieving the best outcomes for our clients—whether through negotiation or litigation.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation with West Coast Trial Lawyers Today

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Glendora, CA, don’t delay in seeking legal help. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys are readily available to assist you with your dog bite case. We will evaluate the information presented, identify the at fault party, and pursue legal action to get you a fair settlement.

To schedule your FREE consultation, call us at (213) 927-3700 or complete this easy online contact form. We are available 24/7 to answer your phone calls and form submissions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Glendora Dog Bite Claims

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in California?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the dog bite attack to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to meet this deadline may result in losing your right to compensation.

What if I Was Partially Responsible for the Incident?

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Can I File a Claim if the Dog Bite Happened on Private Property?

Yes. As long as you were lawfully on the property—such as a guest, tenant, or delivery worker—you can still file a claim under California’s strict liability law.

Will Homeowner’s Insurance Cover My Injuries?

In many cases, yes. Most dog bite claims are paid out through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. An experienced attorney can help deal with the insurance companies to pursue full compensation.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer?

Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees unless we recover compensation for you. We also offer a free consultation to discuss your case.