Folsom and Orange County, CA Dog Bite Attorney

Dog Bite Attorney for Victims in Folsom, Sacramento, Granite Bay, Tahoe, Orange County and Throughout California

If you or someone you love has been injured in a dog attack, you deserve compassionate legal guidance and aggressive advocacy. Dog bites can cause significant physical and emotional harm, leaving victims with medical bills, lost wages, and a diminished quality of life. Our dedicated legal team understands the complexities of California’s dog bite laws and is prepared to help you pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.

California’s “Strict Liability”

Under California Code of Civil Procedure section 3342, “the owner of a dog is liable for damages suffered by any person who is bitten by a dog” while that person is lawfully in the place the attack occurred. The owner will be liable for all of the damages flowing from the dog bite, including resulting medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If a person is bit by a dog while they are trespassing, or if the bite victim provoked the dog, it could be difficult, if not impossible, to obtain compensation for injuries sustained. Due to the complexities surrounding liability, it is important to contact Shaaban & Biedgoly as soon as possible to protect your legal rights and evaluate your potential compensation following a dog bite.

Also, California does not follow the “one bite rule” followed by many other states, and which essentially give the owner a pass on the dogs first known bite. Under the one bite rule, if a dog has bitten someone in the past, they are on notice of the dangerous propensities of their dog. If the dog bites a second person, then the owner is liable for the resulting injuries since they knew or should have known of the dogs dangerous tendencies.

Common Reasons for Dog Bites

1. Territorial Behavior: Dogs may bite if they feel someone is threatening their home or family.
2. Lack of Socialization: Poorly socialized dogs may not know how to react around strangers or children.
3. Fear or Anxiety: A frightened dog might lash out if it feels cornered or threatened.
4. Negligent Supervision: Owners who do not restrain or watch their dogs can put others at risk.
5. Previous Aggressive Behavior: A history of aggression or biting can indicate a heightened risk.

Regardless of the root cause, the impact of a dog bite can be severe. Victims often struggle physically, financially, and emotionally in the aftermath, making legal representation crucial for recovering damages.

Injuries Frequently Sustained in Dog Attacks 

Dog bites can range from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common types of injuries include:

Lacerations and Puncture Wounds

• Deep bites can lead to serious infections if not treated promptly.
• Severe tissue damage may require stitches, wound care, and surgical intervention.

Fractures and Broken Bones

• Victims can suffer broken bones from the bite pressure itself or from being knocked to the ground.
• Healing may require casting, surgery, and physical therapy.

Nerve Damage

• Bites can damage underlying nerves, causing chronic pain, loss of sensation, or limited mobility.
• Recovery may require extensive rehabilitation.

Facial Disfigurement and Scarring

• Attacks to the face often lead to lasting scars or disfigurement, requiring multiple reconstructive surgeries.
• Emotional trauma can persist long after physical wounds heal.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

• Many victims struggle with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and fear of animals post-attack.
• Psychological counseling or therapy may be necessary for recovery.

When a dog owner’s negligence leads to injury, you shouldn’t have to shoulder the physical, financial, and emotional consequences alone. A knowledgeable dog bite attorney can fight on your behalf to hold the responsible party accountable.

California Dog Bite Laws

California generally uses a strict liability rule for dog bite incidents. Under California Civil Code § 3342:

• Owner Accountability: An owner is liable for injuries caused by their dog, even if the dog has never bitten anyone in the past.
• Location Matters: Liability applies if the bite happens in a public place or if the victim is lawfully on private property (such as an invited guest or a utility worker).
• Possible Exceptions: If the victim was trespassing, provoking the animal, or working in an occupation involving canine contact (such as a veterinarian), liability could be disputed.

Navigating the intricacies of these legal provisions can be daunting. Hiring an experienced Folsom and Orange County, CA dog bite lawyer ensures that you properly interpret the statutes, gather the necessary evidence, and build a strong legal claim.

Proving Liability in a Dog Bite Case

Although California’s strict liability standard generally favors the victim, you must still prove:

1. Ownership: Identify the individual or entity that owns or controls the dog.
2. Location: Demonstrate you were on public property or lawfully on private property at the time of the attack.
3. Causation: Show that your injuries resulted directly from the dog bite.

Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation by reviewing medical records, interviewing witnesses, gathering surveillance footage (if available), and examining any prior complaints or reports about the dog.