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Dogs are wonderful companions but sometimes, they can attack for various reasons, causing serious injuries and sometimes fatalities.
California is one of the leading states in dog bite fatalities. The most common breeds for dog attacks are pit bulls and rottweilers. The most vulnerable victims of dog bites are children, who make up about 68% of the total reported attacks.
If you or your loved one has been a victim of a dog bite injury in Van Nuys, California, you may have the right to sue and claim compensation for your injuries. Our experienced Van Nuys dog bite injury lawyers at Attorney Jeff Injury Lawyers can help you file a claim and get the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced Van Nuys injury lawyers now to begin.
Common Injuries in Dog Attacks
Victims of dog bite injuries often sustain:
- Broken bones
- Head and neck injuries
- Punctured skin
- Face and eye injuries
- Head and neck injuries.
- Nerve or tissue damage
- Infections like rabies and tetanus
Medical bills from dog attack injuries can range between tens of thousands of dollars and higher. These bills can be crippling, leaving you with financial uncertainty. If you suffered serious injuries from a dog attack, our lawyers can help you sue the liable parties and get compensation to cover your bills and any other losses you suffered.
Dog Owner Liability in Van Nuys
The State of California employs a strict liability policy for dog bites and other domestic animal attacks. An owner of a dog is held accountable for any injuries to other persons caused by their pet, even if the dog didn’t show previous signs of aggression.
For other states that apply the one-bite rule, dog owners can escape liability if it was the dog’s first time to attack, depending on the circumstances.
The strict liability policy only applies if the person attacked was in a public place or legally allowed to be in the premises where the incident occurred. A dog owner may not be held liable if the victim was trespassing or if the dog attacked to defend the owner or another party.
What to Do After a Dog Bite Accident in Van Nuys
Dog bite injuries can cause an infection, which may escalate to a health emergency if not treated as soon as possible. Additionally, acting promptly following a dog bite incident can save a life and solidify a claim.
Here’s what to do immediately after a dog bite:
1. Call 911
Seek medical attention immediately. First responders will provide emergency treatment and take you to a medical facility for treatment.
If you’re far from a medical care center and can’t call 911, perform first aid by cleaning the wound with lots of water to wash off the bacteria.
2. Get the dog owner’s information
The dog owner’s information will help you find out the dog’s health status and if it was vaccinated. California laws require all dogs to be vaccinated and wear tags. The tags also identify the dog owner, which will help you know who to file a claim against.
3. Report to the police
Call the police or go to the station to report the incident. The police will ask you questions about what took place and write a report, documenting what happened. Police statements are crucial evidence in filing a dog bite claim.
4. Report to animal control
All animal attacks must be filed with the LA County Department of Public Health to keep a record of aggressive animals. Animals that have at least two bites on their record may be euthanized after a court hearing, for the safety of others.
5. Document your injuries and take photos and videos
Keep your medical records and take photographic evidence of your injuries. This can help serve as proof of the dog’s attack and show the severity of your injuries.
6. Contact a dog bite injury attorney
It’s important to seek legal guidance to help you evaluate and determine if you have a valid claim. An experienced Van Nuys dog bite injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and file the claim on your behalf.
What Is the Average Settlement for a Dog Bite in California?
It is hard to establish an average dog bite settlement for victims in Van Nuys. It’s important to note that every dog bite case is different, and the settlement amount varies depending on the circumstances and “level” of the dog bite.
Typically, the courts award higher amounts for dog bites above level 3, which include dog attacks that cause serious injuries that:
- Require surgery
- Leaves scarring
- Leads to disfigurement
- Require extended medical care
- Cause psychological distress that needs mental health therapy
- Result in permanent disability
Why Should You Get a Dog Bite Lawyer?
Filing a dog bite claim is a complex process, especially for people who are not familiar with the legal process. Claims involve significant paperwork that goes through the right channels. Hiring a dog bite lawyer to represent your interests can allow you to focus on your recovery.
Our professional dog bite attorneys can help your case by:
- Conducting an investigation
- Gathering necessary evidence to build your case
- Filing the paperwork and doing necessary follow-ups
- Proving negligence
- Negotiating a fair settlement
- Representing you in court
Contact a Reliable Van Nuys Dog Bite Injury Lawyer
Our dog bite lawyers at Attorney Jeff Injury Lawyers highly experienced in handling dog bite cases within the state of California. We’re well versed with California animal laws and all legal options available. If you sustained dog bite injuries in Van Nuys, our attorneys will fight to get you fair compensation for your injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation and case evaluation.
FAQs About Dog Bite Injuries
How long after a dog bite can you sue someone in California?
You can file a suit for dog bite injury as early as immediately after the incident. The statute of limitations for dog bite injury claims in California is two years from the date of the injury. Failure to file a lawsuit within the allotted two years may cause your case to be dismissed.
Can I sue for dog bite injury in California if I was trespassing?
Trespassers may not be able to sue for dog bite injury because they were legally NOT allowed to be at the place of attack. In most cases, you may only be eligible to sue for a dog bite injury if you were attacked in a public space or on private property you legally had access to.
Who pays for the damages in a dog bite claim?
Typically, the dog owner pays for the damages or their homeowners insurance. In some cases where landlord liability applies, the dog owner’s landlord may be liable.