San Bernardino Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog bites in San Bernardino are not uncommon and can happen in various settings, resulting in minor or devastating outcomes. While many cases take place on public streets, about 70% will occur on a dog owner’s property. For instance, a tragic case was reported at Perris Hill Park, where a woman was killed by an unrestrained Pit Bull roaming near a homeless encampment. Situations like this emphasize that dog attacks can practically happen anywhere throughout the city, stressing the need to bring attention to enhanced animal control and ownership responsibility to promote dog bite prevention.

Affected victims are entitled to pursue legal action to recover compensation. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our San Bernardino law firm provides a FREE initial consultation to explore the legal options you have available. We provide personalized services tailored to your specific situation and will help you build a strong case against the opposing side to better your chances of acquiring favorable results.

With over 20 years of experience handling personal injury cases and a proven track record of delivering client satisfaction, we have the knowledge and expertise needed to negotiate with insurance companies, represent you in court (if needed), and get you the compensation you deserve.

To get started on the legal process, you can connect with us by calling (213) 927-3700 or filling out our convenient online contact form. 

What Are the Legal Implications of a Dog Bite?

In San Bernardino County, dog bite cases are governed by California Civil Code § 3342, under which dog owners are held strictly liable for bites that happen while the victim is in a public space or lawfully on private property regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of it. Exceptions may apply for the following:

• The victim was trespassing.
• The victim provoked the dog.
• The dog was working under police or military forces.

California’s pure comparative negligence law will allow financial compensation to be adjusted according to the degree of fault committed by all parties involved.

If the dog bite breaks the skin, San Bernardino County will require the animal to be quarantined for rabies observation, which can be at a shelter, vet clinic, or the owner’s home. Failing to comply will result in legal consequences. County ordinance also requires dogs to be confined by a fence or other suitable restraint while on the owner’s property.

What Should I Do If Bitten By a Dog?

Dog bite victims should consider fulfilling the following actions to prevent infection or complications from arising.

Get to Safety

If you were bitten by a dog, you should distance yourself away from it. Any notable blood should be addressed by applying firm pressure. Wrapping a clean cloth or bandage is also encouraged to slow down the blood or make it stop.

Document the Incident

It is crucial to have documentation at hand to help support your dog bite claim. Try to keep copies of:

• Medical records
• Prescriptions
• Receipts

You should also have written documentation of what happened. Be sure to write down the date, time, and location. Do not forget to include witness statements, photos, and video footage covering how the bite occurred.

Seek Medical Attention

Be sure to seek immediate medical attention after the encounter. Infections, like rabies or tetanus, may arise and require prompt care. A doctor may suggest a tetanus booster or prescribe antibiotics to prevent such cases from occurring. Fulfilling these tasks can help create an official record covering your injury, which is important for insurance and legal purposes.

Identify the Dog and the Owner

Try to gather as much information as you can about the dog and the owner. Be sure to get the person’s:

• Full name
• Address
• Phone number
• The dog’s vaccination history

If the animal was a stray, you should document its breed, size, color, and where its last known location was. Photographs or video footage of bodily harm and the incident can serve as valuable evidence in a dog bite injury claim.

Report the Dog Bite to Animal Control

In San Bernardino County, dog bites that break the skin need to be reported as soon as possible. The animal may need to go through a ten-day rabies quarantine. Doing this can help protect public safety and create an official record.

Consult with a San Bernardino Dog Bite Lawyer

Reaching out to a San Bernardino dog bite lawyer can help you understand your legal rights under the state’s strict liability laws. They will also:

• Communicate with the insurance company.
• Pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
• Represent you in court if your case heads to trial.

Keep in mind that there is a two year statute for dog bites in California. Your attorney will take note of that and take quick action by filing documents in a timely manner, giving you the opportunity to recover damages caused by the owner’s negligence.

What Are the Different Types of Dog Bites?

Dog bite injuries may vary depending on the intensity of the attack. Common types may include the following:

• Level 1: The dog will show threatening behavior, like growling or lunging. But the teeth will make no contact with the skin. This is deemed as more of a warning bite that does not involve physical injury.
• Level 2: The dog’s teeth will touch or slightly make a dent onto the skin, but will not break it. This will leave light bruising. Such bites are still considered serious because it proves how the dog is willing to make contact with a person and it can escalate if it is not properly addressed.
• Level 3: One to four puncture wounds may appear, and each of these will be less than half the length of the dog’s canine teeth. The wound may also have lacerations in one direction, which can be caused by the dog’s teeth gripping and releasing.
• Level 4: One to four deep puncture wounds will occur, just from a single bite. This will be more than half the length of the dog’s canine teeth. Deep bruising or tearing may also appear in multiple directions. This type of bite may pose a higher risk of infections and even serious injury.
• Level 5: Several bites with deep punctures may happen within a single attack. This can involve a dog gripping and shaking the victim. Bodily harm may result in severe injuries, leading to significant tissue damage. Reconstructive surgery could be suggested if the wounded area is in bad condition, restricting the victim from properly functioning the affected site.
• Level 6: The victim, whether it is a human or animal, dies from the dog attack.

What Are the Statistics on Dog Bites?

San Bernardino County has an estimate of 668,004 households based on recent U.S. Census Bureau data. While exact figures of pet ownership are limited, broader statistics are available to comprehend the widespread presence of dogs, particularly in the United States.

Tens of millions of injuries occur annually with dog bites. In the United States alone, about 4.5 million people are affected each year according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Children represent the largest proportion of dog bite victims, with most cases happening during their mid-to-late childhood. Head and neck injuries are also greater in children than in adults, leading to a higher likelihood of severe injuries and death rates.

Based on information presented by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), between 2011 and 2021, the United States had a total of 468 deaths from a dog bite or attack, averaging 43 deaths each year. With approximately 38% of the U.S. households owning one or more dogs, the risk of encounters is widespread. The organization further goes on the claim that nearly one in five people who are bitten by a dog will need medical attention.

What Are the Risks of Rabies From a Dog?

The risk of rabies from a dog will depend on the dog’s vaccination status and the nature of the exposure. Rabies is a viral disease that can target the central nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. WHO claims that, globally, dog bites are the primary source of human rabies deaths, contributing to 99% of virus transmission to people.

Rabies is typically transmitted through bites that break the skin. Saliva from an infected dog can also cause it to spread if contact is made to an open wound or a person’s eyes, nose, or mouth. Symptoms in dogs may include the following:

• Behavioral changes
• Constant drooling
• Aggression
• Paralysis
• Difficulty swallowing

If a person is bit by a dog of unknown rabies status, it is crucial to take immediate action, specifically the following:

• Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water for 15 minutes.
• Seek medical attention as soon as possible for rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
• Report the case over to local animal control to have the dog either observed or tested.

While rabies can be preventable with vaccines, it is almost 100% fatal once a person experiences symptoms, making prompt medical evaluation a necessity after a high-risk dog bite.

Do You Need a Shot for a Dog Bite?

If a dog bite breaks your skin and it has been more than five years since your last tetanus shot, a booster is recommended to prevent infection. Rabies PEP may also be needed if:

• The dog is a stray.
• The dog is unvaccinated.
• The dog is showing signs of rabies.

Even with vaccinated dogs, doctors may still suggest patients to take antibiotics as nearly one in five bites do become infected.

Does Renters Insurance Cover Dog Bites?

In California, renters insurance can cover dog bites under personal liability coverage. This will cover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Legal fees
• Settlements if your dog harms someone

This applies when a dog bite occurs while in your rental unit or off the property, as long as you are held accountable for it. But, California insurance providers may implement certain restrictions. Many companies may exclude coverage depending on the dog breed that falls under “high risk,” such as:

• Pit Bulls
• Rottweilers
• Dobermans

Coverage limits will range from $100,000 to $300,000. Any damages that exceed this amount will require you to cover the remaining amount. In addition, insurers may deny claims if you did not disclose dog ownership when purchasing your policy. For higher-risk cases, dog owners can add umbrella liability insurance to enhance protection.

How Much Is a Dog Bite Lawsuit Worth in San Bernardino?

In San Bernardino, alongside other cities in California, the value of a dog bite will vary based on the following factors:

• The extent of your injury
• Percentage of fault
• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost income and earning capacity

To get an idea of what you could be entitled to, you can use our personal injury settlement calculator by inputting the losses you suffered as a result of the dog bite.

Typically, minor cases will have low figures, whereas more severe circumstances will push claims into roughly six figures. Economic and non-economic damages may be awarded to help the dog bite victim have a sense of closure.

Economic damages are tangible losses that are easy to measure in monetary terms, including medical bills and lost wages. Non-economic damages, however, are subjective, non-monetary losses, like emotional trauma and pain and suffering.

Bitten By a Dog? West Coast Trial Lawyers Is Here to Help

If you were harmed as a result of a dog bite incident, you may be eligible to pursue full compensation. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our San Bernardino dog bite attorneys are readily available to protect your legal rights and maximize your payout.

We will make sure the responsible party is held liable by implementing a thorough investigation, gathering strong evidence, and negotiating with the insurance companies. We will also file legal documents in a prompt manner and represent you in court, if needed, to seek damages on your behalf.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About San Bernardino Dog Bite Claims

How Much Should I Settle for a Dog Bite?

The settlement amount of a dog bite case will vary based on several factors, including the severity of your injury and the losses you incurred as a result of the event. Minor cases may settle for a few thousand dollars, whereas more severe situations can lead to settlements that are $100,000 or more. Since every case is unique, it is important to speak to an experienced dog bite lawyer who can take a look at the details involved with your case and help determine what would be a fair settlement value based on California law and local factors.

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost for a Dog Bite?

In San Bernardino, most dog bite attorneys work under a contingency-fee basis, meaning that you owe them nothing unless they win your case. If that happens, a certain percentage (due to attorney fees) will be taken from your settlement. The fee structure is meant to have clients pay only if compensation is won on their behalf. Be sure to carefully assess the options you have, and seek help from an excellent lawyer with a good reputation handling dog bite cases. Finding someone with a proven track record of providing satisfactory results can improve your chances of acquiring full compensation.

Is It Worth It To Sue for a Dog Bite?

Suing for a dog bite can be worth it if the injury costs you significant medical expenses, lost income, and long-lasting pain. The state’s dog bite laws make it easier for victims to secure compensation since you typically do not need to prove that the owner knew they had a dangerous dog. You will only have to mention how the incident happened while you were in a public space or lawfully on private property.

Specific circumstances in which a person should consider pursuing legal action include the following:

• Significant medical expenses
• Lost work income
• Permanent scars, disfigurement, or nerve damage
• Intense pain or emotional distress

When it comes to minor cases that require little to no medical treatment, the time and effort put into a lawsuit may outweigh your potential payout. Experienced dog bite attorneys can take a look at your situation and determine whether you should move forward with the legal process.

How Do You Know a Dog Bite Is Serious?

A dog bite may be considered serious if it has deep tissue damage, significant bleeding, or signs of infection. You should get a medical evaluation if you notice any of the following:

• Tearing of the skin
• Uncontrollable bleeding
• Signs of infection
• Numbness or weakness
• Severe pain
• Loss of function in the injury site
• Fevers or chills

If any of these are presented, be sure to speak to a medical professional. Remember, even small bites can contribute to infections or scarring.

What Happens if a Dog’s Teeth Scratch You?

If a dog’s teeth only scratch your skin, the injury may be minor, but could still require some attention. Even if it does not seem like a big deal, bacteria could spread if you do not wash the affected area. You should immediately have this done with soap and water, then apply an antiseptic. Be sure to monitor for signs of redness or swelling. If you notice any symptoms of infection, seek medical attention immediately.

What Dog Has the Strongest Bite?

The dog breed that has been reported to have the strongest measured bite is the Kangal Shepherd. Despite the numerous claims of its bite force being between 700 to 750 PSI (pounds per square inch), peer-reviewed scientific evidence and veterinary research shows that such figures appear to be overstated. 

Instead, the actual estimate of the bite force of Kangals will range between 250 and 400 PSI. This is still considered as one of the strongest bites compared to other domestic dogs. 

The animal itself has a powerful jaw and protective instincts. It is labeled as a guardian breed that derives from Turkey, and was originally bred to protect flocks from getting attacked by predators, including wolves and bears.

How to Prevent Dog Bites?

Preventing dog bites will require you to understand the animal’s behavior and how to properly incorporate safety measures. Some factors that should be considered include the following:

• Do not approach unfamiliar or stressed dogs
• Do not disturb a dog that is eating or sleeping
• Refrain from aggressive play

If you are the dog owner, you should have your pet socialize early on and put them in obedience training. Be sure to keep them on a leash when going out for walks, and use muzzles if they are known to be aggressive. You need to be consistent with regular veterinary care and vaccinations, and have health or behavioral issues addressed with your vet or trainer.

When Should a Dog Be Put Down for Biting?

Determining when a dog should be put down will revolve around the factors surrounding the situation. If the bite was severe and left the victim with deep wounds or permanent damage, it could be taken seriously and lead to legal action or a mandatory evaluation of the animal. 

The context of the case also matters. If the dog was teased into attacking or was simply defending itself, its behavior may be more understandable. On the other hand, bites that happen out of the blue, especially in public or repeated incidents, can indicate a serious behavioral issue. Aggressive bursts without warning are dangerous. 

Local and state laws may also influence the fate of the dog. In some places, animal control or courts will have the authority of putting it down if it has been labeled as vicious or poses a threat to public safety. 

For instance, if a person is seriously injured or killed as a result of a dog bite, or if the owner failed to restrain or control the animal after previous attacks, authorities may consider euthanasia. Expert evaluations from veterinarians or animal behaviorists can also be used to understand the dog’s temperament and decide if it should be rehabilitated. If it is treatable, the owner may take precautions and euthanasia may not be needed.