Visalia Dog Bite Lawyer

Dogs are known for their loyal and playful nature, but this does not make them immune to sudden aggression. Even the most well-behaved pets can react unexpectedly when startled or provoked. If you have been attacked, whether in a public space or lawfully on someone else’s property, the outcome can result in physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial burdens.

Given the circumstances involved, you may have grounds to file a dog bite injury claim. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our Visalia team has over 20 years of experience handling personal injury cases and recovered more than $1.7 billion in settlements on behalf of our clients.

With our knowledge and expertise, we are equipped to guide you through the legal process and help you receive fair compensation to cover any losses you incurred, like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We operate under a contingency-fee basis, meaning you owe us nothing unless we successfully recover damages through a settlement or court verdict. 

To set up a FREE case evaluation, you can get in touch with us by calling (213) 927-3700 or completing our convenient online contact form.

California Dog Bite Laws

California Civil Code section 3342 imposes strict liability on dog owners. If the animal attacks someone, the person in control will be held responsible regardless of any prior history of aggression or knowledge of such behavior. The victim is not required to prove negligence in this case.

Strict liability will apply if the incident occurred on public property or while the victim was lawfully on private property. Fault may be avoided if either of the following apply:

• The victim provoked the animal to attack
• The victim was trespassing
• The dog was working under military or police forces

California follows the pure comparative negligence rule, meaning that if you share liability for the dog bite attack, your financial compensation will be adjusted based on percentage of fault. For instance, if you are 20 percent responsible, damages will be reduced accordingly.

Types of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can lead to a wide range of bodily harm, from minor skin damage to devastating injuries. The degree of impact will vary depending on its level of aggression and the location of the bite. These animal attack injuries can not only lead to physical pain, but emotional trauma, as well.

The aftermath of a dog bite may result in the following conditions:

• Deep wound
• Broken bones
• Lacerations
• Nerve damage
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Psychological trauma

Depending on the extent of the damage, different forms of medical care will need to be applied to help improve your condition. Regardless, you should get the affected area evaluated immediately as infections are possible if left untreated.

What to Do After a Dog Bite

Getting bit by a dog can be a frightening experience. Although it may be difficult to maintain a calm composure, try to do the actions sectioned below.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

If you were bitten by a dog, you should get yourself assessed by a medical professional. They will run a few tests to check for any potential problems. If notable concerns are presented, they will develop a personalized medical treatment plan to help with your recovery. Your health records will also serve as important evidence if you choose to pursue a personal injury claim against the at fault party.

Report the Incident

Reach out to your local police department or animal control agency after the dog attack. Reporting the situation will create an official record, and will help authorities learn whether the dog is up to date with shots or presents a safety risk to the public.

Gather Evidence

Try to take photos of your injuries and the scene. Be sure to get the dog owner’s contact information and of any bystanders who witnessed the incident. Maintain all medical visits, along with the expenses you incurred and how the dog bite injury impacted your life.

Speak with a Visalia Dog Bite Lawyer

A Visalia dog bite lawyer will help you understand your legal options and will work diligently to secure fair compensation on your behalf. They will:

• Handle all communication with the dog owner
• Initiate a thorough investigation into the matter
• Establish liability and take legal action on your behalf
• Negotiate with the insurance companies
• Represent you in court if a reasonable settlement is not offered

Even if you are unsure of whether you have a dog bite case, consulting with an experienced lawyer soon after the incident can give you a better understanding of what your next move is. Most law firms, including West Coast Trial Lawyers, offer FREE consultations and operate under a contingency-fee basis, meaning you owe nothing unless your case is successfully settled.

Compensation Available to Dog Bite Victims

Dog bite injuries can leave a physical, emotional, and financial burden on the victim. Damages will vary in each case due to the unique factors involved. Affected individuals may be entitled to secure compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. This includes some of the following:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Emotional distress

The amount of compensation will differ based on:

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

To learn what you could be entitled to, you can use our personal injury settlement calculator by entering the expenses you incurred as a result of the dog bite.

Schedule a FREE Consultation with West Coast Trial Lawyers Today

Dog bite victims are eligible to pursue compensation by filing a personal injury claim against the at fault party. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our Visalia dog bite attorneys will hold the responsible party accountable by investigating the attack, acquiring critical evidence, and fighting to get you a fair settlement. We will handle every legal aspect so you can focus on recovering without added stress.

To book a FREE case evaluation with an experienced dog bite attorney, you can connect with our 24/7 team by calling (213) 927-3700 or filling out our quick online contact form.

Visalia Dog Bite FAQ

Can You Sue for a Minor Dog Bite?

You can sue for a minor dog bite in California. Strict liability law holds the owner accountable for injuries caused by their dogs. While the severity can influence the amount of compensation you are awarded, even minor injuries can still result in medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress.

How Can I Prevent a Dog Bite?

Preventing a dog bite will require you to understand the animal’s behavior and practice caution. If you come across one, it is encouraged that you do the following:

• Give the dog space, especially if you are a stranger to them
• Ask for permission before petting the animal
• Be sure to watch out for body language, like growling, bared teeth, or stiff posture
• Remain calm and avoid making sudden movements
• Do not make direct eye contact as it can be seen as a threat

By learning how to safely interact with dogs and recognizing warning signs, you can protect yourself from potential harm.

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

Since dog bite cases fall under personal injury law, you will be given two years from the date of the attack to file a claim. Try to gather as much evidence as you can and select the right legal representation. Failing to fulfill these tasks in a timely manner will only cause delays, putting you at risk of exceeding the statute of limitations. In the event that the deadline is not met, you will lose your opportunity to recover damages.

Do Certain Breeds Have a Higher Risk of Biting?

Certain dog breeds are statistically associated with a higher risk of biting, including:

• Pit Bulls
• Rottweilers
• German Shepherds

But, keep in mind, dog bite cases occur due to various circumstances. It is usually the owner who plays a major role than the breed alone as they are involved with:

• Training and socialization
• Environment and upbringing
• Owner behavior and responsibility
• Getting the animal neutered or spayed

Small breeds, like Chihuahuas or Dachshunds, can also bite. But, it is less impactful and is often underreported.