Dog bites can result in devastating injuries, disfigurement, severe emotional and psychological issues, and significant medical expenses. If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, contact a Buena Park dog bite lawyer of Bisnar Chase at 949-203-3814.
Victims of dog bite incidents often struggle to recover fair compensation for their injuries and losses. The personal injury lawyers of Bisnar Chase have collected over $900 million in compensation for clients an animal has hurt.
When you call our Orange County offices, you will receive a free consultation with our skilled and compassionate legal team. Choose Bisnar Chase for superior representation, and let us fight for you.
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Buena Park Dog Bite Attorneys
California Dog Bite Law
Statistics concluded that in one year, 18 people lost their lives due to being attacked by a dog. The youngest of the victims was named Tyler Trammell-Huston, who was just nine years old.
Under California Code 3342 (a): “The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness.”
A person is lawfully upon the private property of such owner within the meaning of this section when he is on such property in the performance of any duty imposed upon him by the laws of this state or by the rules or postal regulations of the United States, or when he is on the property upon the invitation, express or implied, of the owner.
This strict liability statute clearly states that dog owners are responsible for their pets’ actions unless the victim was trespassing or otherwise involved in criminal activity at the time of the attack.
It does not matter if the dog has a record of previous incidents or if this is the dog’s first bite. Regardless of the dog’s prior history, the owner can be held financially responsible for injuries and damages caused.
Liability Issues Involving Police Dogs
When the dog that bites is a police dog, there are different liability issues involved. California Code 3342 (b) prevents victims of dog bite accidents from filing a claim against the government if the accident occurred during the apprehension or holding of a suspect where the employee has a reasonable suspicion of the suspect’s criminal activity.
As long as the dog was used during an investigation of a crime or possible crime or in executing a warrant, it will not be possible to file a claim against the governmental agency responsible for the dog.
5 Steps to Take After You Have Bitten by a Dog in CA.
Taking action immediately after a dog has attacked you is crucial. Dogs have the potential to spread diseases that can kill a person. Children and senior citizens make up the majority of dog bite victims. Due to their size and physical strength, these two groups can be left with facial disfigurements or could suffer from severe puncture wounds. Many people who survive a dog bite do not know what actions to take after the attack.
Experts say that after a dog bite accident, you should:
- Seek medical attention immediately: When a dog has bitten you, you need to seek help from a medical professional immediately. The doctor will not only stop the bleeding but also provide you with the antibiotics you need to prevent any risks of infection. Do not forget to keep the medical documents or receipts you receive upon your visit.
- Find the owner and exchange information: If your child has been attacked by a dog, after receiving medical attention, track down the owner to gather information about the dog. The type of information you must request from the owner will be the dog’s registration, the dog tag, and documents stating that the dog has all of its shots. It is illegal for a dog owner to leave the crime scene. If they have fled the scene, try to take pictures of the dog or owner.
- Gather evidence: The primary information you want to gather first is the dog owner’s name, phone number, and photos of the bite. Also, ask the dog owner if the dog has a history of aggression and attacks. There are situations, though, where people will be attacked by a stray dog. In this type of incident, contact animal control so they may find the dog.
- File a report: If a dog attack occurs, a report must be made. When dog bite victims are treated for their injuries, it is the protocol for the doctor to make a report to the police about the incident. At times, doctors do not report the dog attack promptly. You must take it upon yourself to file a police report about the incident to begin the legal process.
- Hire a dog bite lawyer in Buena Park: An injury attorney will provide the legal advice you need for your dog bite claim. The Buena Park dog bite lawyers of Bisnar Chase have won dog bite victims the compensation they need to recover from their injuries. When you call today, you will receive a free consultation for your Buena Park dog bite case. Call 949-203-3814.
Liability for a Dog Bite in California
Several facts must be established in a dog bite case. Was the victim legally on the property where the accident occurred? Is it clear which dog caused the injuries? Who is the owner of the dog? Did the victim suffer a physical, financial, or emotional loss?
If the answer is yes to these questions, then financial compensation may be available for the victim through civil litigation. This process can become more complicated if the victim is the dog owner’s relative or if it is not clear to whom the dog belongs. Regardless of the circumstances, a knowledgeable dog bite attorney can guide victims and their families through the process and help determine fault and liability in complex cases.
No Win No Fee Buena Park Dog Bite Lawyer
Victims of dog bite injuries can pursue financial compensation for damages, including but not limited to emergency room costs, hospitalization expenses, lost wages, cosmetic surgery, and pain and suffering. Unfortunately, it is common for dog owners to deny responsibility for the accident and for insurance companies to deny valid claims. Dog bite claims are also often covered under homeowners insurance.
Our law firm does not charge a fee if we don’t win your case. This ensures that your lawyer works hard for you to get the best financial outcome.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, the experienced Buena Park dog bite lawyer at Bisnar Chase can help you better understand your legal rights and options.
Contact us at 949-203-3814 for a free case analysis.
Serving California Since 1978
Bisnar Chase is a top-rated personal injury law firm with a national reputation. The firm has been in business since 1978 and has represented thousands of clients. Based in Newport Beach and with offices across California, Bisnar Chase has recovered nearly $1 billion in settlements and verdicts, emphasizing superior client representation above all.
Brian Chase
Articles and blogs have been reviewed by legal in-house staff. Brian Chase is the managing partner of Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys, LLP. He is the lead trial lawyer and oversees cases handling dangerous and defective products that injure consumers. Brian is a top-rated injury attorney with numerous legal honors and awards for his work relating to auto defects and dangerous products. His firm has recovered over $900M for its clients. Brian is a frequent speaker for CAOC, Dordick Trial College and OCTLA, covering personal injury trial techniques.
