Long Beach Dog Bite Lawyer

Long Beach, California is known for its vibrant, dog-friendly culture. From spacious parks like Recreation Dog Park to the famous Rosie’s Dog Beach near Belmont Shore—the only off-leash dog beach in Los Angeles County—pet owners in Long Beach have plenty of opportunities to enjoy time outdoors with their furry four-legged friends. It’s no wonder why Long Beach is a top destination for dog owners throughout Southern California.

Sadly, with an increasing number of dogs in public and private spaces, a greater risk of dog bites is to be expected. Hence, why Long Beach is ranked in the Top 20 list of cities with the most dog bites in the country. While most dogs are friendly and well-behaved, the unfortunate reality is that a high concentration of dogs in close quarters can result in serious injuries, significant medical expenses, and long-lasting emotional trauma.

If you’ve been hurt by a dog, West Coast Trial Lawyers can help. Our team of dog bite attorneys have handled a variety of dog bite claims and are well-versed in the nuances of even the most complex dog bite lawsuits. With over 20 years of experience representing clients from all walks of life, our team of attorneys have a proven track record of securing compensation for our deserving clients. 

Get immediate legal advice with a free consultation by calling (213) 927-3700 or complete this easy online contact form and one of our attorneys will reach out to you today.

Understanding Dog Bite Laws

Long Beach dog bite cases are a growing concern for city residents. While some incidents occur in homes with known pets, many bites take place in public areas like parks, beaches, or sidewalks. In many of these cases, the dog owner may not have properly restrained their animal with a dog leash, or the dog escaped due to negligence.

California has some of the strictest dog bite laws in the country, and these are primarily governed by California Civil Code § 3342. This statute imposes what’s known as strict liability on dog owners, which means the owner is liable for damages regardless of whether the dog had ever shown aggressive behavior before or if the owner was unaware of any such tendencies. This rule eliminates the traditional “one-bite rule” used in some states and places the burden squarely on the dog owner to prevent such incidents. 

Under California’s jury instructions, particularly CACI No. 463, a plaintiff must prove only a few key facts: that the defendant owned the dog, that the dog bit the plaintiff, that the bite occurred in a place where the plaintiff had a legal right to be, and that the bite caused harm.

Additionally, California has administrative statutes concerning dogs deemed “potentially dangerous” or “vicious.” Under Civil Code § 3342.5, if a dog has a history of biting or attacking people, authorities may impose restrictions or even mandate removal. These public safety measures can also affect a civil claim, as prior incidents can demonstrate that an owner knew—or should have known—of the dog’s dangerous tendencies.

Exceptions to Long Beach Dog Bite Laws

Due to the nature of dog bite incidents, there are important limitations and defenses to the strict liability rule. For example, a dog owner may not be held liable if the injured person was trespassing at the time of the bite or was bitten by police or military dogs. California law only protects victims who are lawfully present, so someone illegally entering a property would not be entitled to compensation and the rule applies to those who were being apprehended as a suspect, though they may still pursue a claim based on general negligence. 

Another potential defense is provocation, because if the dog was provoked—such as being hit or teased—the owner’s liability may be reduced or eliminated. Additionally, California recognizes the “veterinarian’s rule,” which applies to professionals who routinely work with dogs, like veterinarians and kennel workers. These individuals are considered to have assumed the risk of being bitten, meaning strict liability does not apply, although they may still have a case under negligence law. 

Common Causes of Dog Bites

While Long Beach is known for its pet-friendly atmosphere, including off-leash parks can sometimes contribute to the risk of dog bites. Understanding the common causes of dog bite injuries helps dog owners and victims alike take proactive safety measures.

Poor Leash Control

One cause of dog attacks is poor leash control. Even in areas where leashes are required by California law, many dog owners allow their pets to roam freely, especially in less supervised zones, like hiking trails or private yards. When not properly restrained, however, dogs may act unpredictably, especially in the presence of other animals or unfamiliar humans.

Improper Training

Another frequent cause is lack of proper training or socialization, particularly with dangerous dog breeds. Dogs not used to being around people or other animals may respond to unfamiliar situations with aggression or fear, leading to bite injuries.

Perceived Threat

Some dog bite incidents occur on private property, where a dog might perceive a visitor or delivery person as a threat. Under California’s strict liability laws, the dog owner is generally responsible for any dog bite injury, even if the bite happened inside their home or yard, however.

Escapes

Dog escapes from fenced yards or off-leash areas can also lead to unexpected confrontations. Whether it’s a jogger, a child, or another pet that triggers the animal, the result is often a traumatic and painful experience for the victim.

Stress or Provocation

It’s also important to remember that even dogs labeled as “friendly” can bite under stress, illness, or provocation. For instance, reaching to pet a dog indoors while it’s eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies may cause it to react aggressively, even if the animal has no prior history of violence.

In all these scenarios, the consequences can range from minor wounds to serious injuries, often requiring medical attention, mental health counseling for emotional distress, and assistance from a dog bite injury lawyer to pursue justice.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Incident

If you’ve been involved in a dog bite incident in Long Beach, it’s vital to act quickly to ensure your safety, preserve evidence, and protect your right to compensation. Each step plays a crucial role in building a strong dog bite injury claim.

Seek Medical Attention Right Away

Even if the wound seems minor, dog bite wounds can become infected or lead to complications. A quick visit to an emergency room or urgent care can help prevent serious health issues, such as infections, rabies, or medical complications. Additionally, early documentation of your medical treatment and injuries helps strengthen your personal injury claim.

Document Everything

Take clear, time-stamped photographs of the injury, the scene of the incident, and—if possible—the dog itself. If you can identify the dog owner or the exact location of the dog owner’s property, record this information. Keeping a journal of symptoms and emotional impact can support claims for emotional trauma and emotional distress.

Report The Dog Bite

Notify Long Beach Animal Control or the local police department. An official report helps document the dog bite case and supports your claim if the dog owner disputes responsibility. Authorities may investigate whether the dog was licensed, vaccinated, or classified as a dangerous dog.

Gather Witness Information

If anyone saw the dog attack, ask for their names and contact information. Their testimony can corroborate your version of events and strengthen your case, especially if the dog owner or their insurance company contests the facts.

Don’t Speak to the Insurance Company Without a Lawyer

You may be contacted by the dog owner’s insurance company, but it’s best to consult a dog bite attorney before providing a statement. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and may try to get you to admit fault or accept a low settlement offer.

Contact a Long Beach Dog Bite Lawyer

An experienced dog bite attorney will guide you through your rights and legal options. They can handle communications with the insurance company, conduct investigations, and pursue the highest compensation possible for your medical expenses, lost wages, and physical and emotional injuries.

Types of Injuries Sustained in a Dog Bite

Dog bites can cause a wide variety of serious injuries, many of which require immediate medical attention and long-term care. Victims can experience both visible and invisible damage, including emotional suffering that lasts far beyond the initial dog bite wounds.

Puncture Wounds

These are the most common type of injury and occur when the dog’s teeth pierce the skin. Though they may appear superficial, they can reach deep tissues, increasing the risk of infection or nerve damage.

Torn Muscles and Ligaments

A powerful bite can tear soft tissue, leading to long recovery times, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery. These injuries often impact the victim’s ability to return to work or perform daily tasks.

Scarring and Disfigurement

Bites to the face, neck, arms, or legs often leave lasting scars. In some cases, plastic surgery is needed, especially when children are affected. Disfigurement can also lead to emotional trauma and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Broken Bones or Fractures

Larger breeds like Chow Chows, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds have enough bite force to break bones, especially in the hands, arms, or legs. Elderly victims and children are especially vulnerable to such injuries.

Neck Injuries

If a dog lunges and bites the neck or causes a fall, it can result in neck injuries, which may impact mobility and nerve function.

Emotional Distress and PTSD

Beyond physical harm, many victims experience nightmares, anxiety, or a fear of dogs. Children are especially susceptible to these psychological effects which are recognized as compensable injuries in dog bite injury claims.

Who Can File a Long Beach Dog Bite Claim?

A postal worker delivering mail, a child playing in a neighbor’s yard with permission, or a pedestrian walking down the sidewalk could all be eligible claimants if bitten by a dog. The key requirement is that the bite occurred while the individual was legally present and did not assume the risk of interacting with a known dangerous dog. 

In Long Beach, California, anyone who has been bitten by a dog and suffered injuries as a result may file a dog bite claim. This includes not only residents of Long Beach but also visitors and workers who were lawfully present in a public place or on private property at the time of the incident. The law is designed to protect individuals who did not provoke the dog and were not trespassing. 

In addition to direct victims, certain legal guardians, such as parents or caretakers, can file a claim on behalf of a minor or an incapacitated adult who was bitten. Furthermore, in severe cases involving permanent disability or death, family members may pursue claims for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even wrongful death under California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60.

Compensation Dog Bite Victims Can Recover 

Victims of dog bites in Long Beach are legally entitled to seek compensation for a range of damages. Your dog bite attorney will help you determine the full extent of your losses to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Medical Expenses

Infections, including cellulitis and sepsis, are common after a bite. Victims may need hospitalization, IV antibiotics, and follow-up care for these complications. You can recover costs for emergency room visits, surgeries, follow-up appointments, medications, rehabilitation, and any other medical treatment related to the injury. This includes both current bills and future medical bills you’re likely to incur due to complications or additional procedures.

Lost Wages

If you missed work due to the bite, whether for recovery, doctor visits, or because of long-term disability, you can claim your lost wages. Your dog bite lawyer can work with financial experts to estimate your lost income, particularly if you’re unable to return to your previous occupation.

Pain and Suffering

You may be compensated for the physical and emotional injuries you endured. This includes chronic pain, emotional trauma, emotional distress, and any long-term impacts like scarring or disfigurement.

Psychological and Emotional Damages

In many dog bite cases, victims suffer anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, or depression. Compensation can cover therapy or psychiatric care.

Punitive Damages

In rare cases involving egregious conduct—such as a dangerous dog known to bite repeatedly—courts may award punitive damages to punish the owner and deter future negligence.

Legal Assistance Costs

Attorney’s fees may also be covered if your case proceeds to trial or if stipulated under California’s personal injury laws. Many attorneys work on a contingency basis, so you pay nothing unless they win.

How Much Time Do Dog Bite Victims Have to File a Claim?

Victims of dog bites must be mindful of the statute of limitations, which in California is generally two years from the date of the injury, per California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. Should they allow the statute of limitations to take into effect then dog bite victims would automatically waive their right to file a claim and pursue compensation for their injuries. Should anyone try to file a claim when the statute of limitations is in effect, their claim will be immediately dismissed in court. With that in mind, it is imperative for accident victims to file a claim as soon as possible. 

The Role of a Long Beach Dog Bite Lawyer

Hiring a Long Beach dog bite lawyer is one of the most important steps a victim can take after a dog attack. Dog bite cases are not just about medical recovery—they involve navigating legal procedures, dealing with insurance companies, and proving liability under complex dog bite laws in Southern California.

A qualified dog bite attorney begins by conducting a comprehensive investigation into the incident. This includes interviewing witnesses, reviewing dog bite statistics, obtaining medical records, and checking local animal control records to determine if the dog involved was previously deemed a dangerous dog.

Once the evidence is gathered, your dog bite lawyer will handle all interactions with the insurance company. Insurance adjusters are often trained to protect their bottom line, which means they may minimize your injuries or argue that you were somehow responsible for the incident. An experienced dog bite attorney counters these tactics with strong legal arguments and thorough documentation.

In cases where a fair settlement cannot be reached, your dog bite injury attorney will file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf. This includes preparing the necessary court documents, conducting depositions, and possibly taking the case to trial in Los Angeles County courts.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation with West Coast Trial Lawyers Today

Being bitten by a dog can be a traumatic experience. If you or a loved one is hurt, we can help. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we’ve helped victims recover over $1.7 billion for their injuries and our team of in-house trial lawyers are ready to do the same for you. We’re led by a former federal prosecutor who has fought and won against the world’s largest corporations, so rest assured, we are the best of the best. Ready to see what your case is worth? 

Call us at (213) 927-3700 or complete this easy online contact form. We’re available 24/7 to assist you and get you on the path of recovery!

Frequently Asked Questions About Long Beach Dog Bites

Do I Need to Report a Dog Bite to Authorities?

Yes. Reporting to Long Beach Animal Control helps create an official record and may reveal prior bites or behavior that classifies the dog as a dangerous dog. This is important for your dog bite injury claim.

Can I Sue if a Dog Bit Me on Private Property?

Yes. Whether you were invited or legally allowed on the premises, the dog owner’s property does not excuse them from liability under California law.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

In most cases, the statute of limitations for dog related injury claims in California is two years from the date of the dog bite incident.

What if the Dog Has No History of Aggression?

Thanks to California’s strict liability law, prior aggression is not required to establish liability. The dog’s first bite can still result in a valid personal injury claim.