Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney
Dog bites are a surprisingly prevalent issue, with thousands of incidents reported yearly in Los Angeles alone. Even the most well-trained and friendly dogs can unexpectedly cause serious harm. Following a dog bite, individuals often face considerable medical expenses, emotional distress, and potentially long-lasting physical or psychological impacts. At Crown Law Group, PC, our team is well-versed in the intricacies of dog bite litigation, dedicating ourselves to securing the rightful compensation for those affected.
California distinguishes itself with its “strict liability” stance on dog bites. This legal framework holds dog owners accountable for any harm their pet causes, regardless of the animal’s previous behavior. This law is applicable when the bite occurs in a public space or legally on private property, provided the victim was not trespassing or provoking the animal.
Steps AfterSuffering a Dog Bite
Seek Immediate Medical Care
Immediate medical care is essential following a dog bite; seek treatment promptly to ensure your health and safety. Document every medical visit and treatment received, as these records can be critical in supporting your case.
Report the Incident
Reporting the incident to Animal Control is a key step. It ensures an official record of the dog bite, which is crucial for legal and safety reasons. This documentation could play a pivotal role in any legal proceedings.
Collect Evidence
Evidence collection is vital. Photograph your injuries and the location where the incident occurred. Also, gather contact information from witnesses. These steps are important for establishing the facts of the case.
Consult with a Dog Bite Attorney
Consulting with a Los Angeles dog bites attorney can significantly influence the outcome of your case. An experienced attorney will guide you through the legal process, manage evidence collection, and negotiate on your behalf, ensuring your rights are fully protected.
Potential Compensation for Victims
Medical Bills
Coverage for current and future medical expenses related to the incident.
Lost Income
Compensation for wages lost due to recovery time.
Pain and Suffering
Recognition of the physical pain and emotional trauma suffered.
Scarring and Disfigurement
Compensation for visible injuries’ lasting physical and emotional impact.
How to Prove Negligence in Dog Bite Injury Claims
Establish that the dog owner is responsible for preventing the dog from causing harm. This could be a legal duty to ensure their dog is restrained or controlled.
Show that the dog owner failed to fulfill their duty of care. This might involve proving that the dog was not on a leash in an area where leashes are required or that the dog was left unsupervised in a public place.
Prove that the owner’s breach of duty directly caused the injury. This means linking the injury directly to the owner’s negligence, such as showing that the bite occurred because the dog was not restrained.
Demonstrate that the victim suffered actual damages from the incident, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
