Dog Bites
Every pet owner has an obligation to keep their animal under control. This applies especially to situations where a dog owner takes the animal off their own property. If a dog owner fails in this duty, and the dog causes an injury, that owner may be liable for any resulting damage. California is a "strict liability" state when it comes to dog bites". This means that an owner cannot escape liability for a dog bite by claiming that he or she had no idea the dog would act aggressively.
If you or a loved one were injured due to a dangerous pet, Ballesteros Law could help you seek compensation. We can work to research the dog’s history, to discover evidence concerning the incident, and to demand proper payments from all at-fault owners.
Potential Effects of Dog Bites
A dog’s bite is capable of causing serious injuries. Even smaller animal bites can cause puncture wounds that may induce severe bleeding, can become infected, or may result in scarring. Larger animals have powerful jaws that can break bones, tear tendons, and require surgery to correct.
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When an animal bites another, the owner could be held liable for damages. The animal owner may be required to cover the cost of all the plaintiff’s losses. With the help of Ballesteros Law, injured claimants may be eligible to recover compensation for damages such as:
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Medical expenses
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Pain and suffering
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Lost wages
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Mental anguish
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Loss of enjoyment of life
A diligent attorney could help injured plaintiffs to evaluate their losses following a dog attack and to demand appropriate payments from negligent pet owners.
Proving Liability Following a Bite
Demonstrating that an injury was the result of a dog bite is only the first step to an effective claim. It is still necessary to prove that an owner was negligent in allowing that bite to occur. In California Civil Code section 3342, the owner is responsible for all damages resulting from a dog bite, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. The statute itself speaks to this issue, holding the dog owner liable "regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness."
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If you are bitten, you need only demonstrate that the bite occurred while you were in a public place or lawfully in a private place. You do not have to show the owner knew the dog would bite or failed to use reasonable care to prevent the bite. But remember, you'll need to take these extra steps to prove your case if you were injured by a dog, but not by a bite (i.e. you were pushed down after a large dog jumped on you).
Let Ballesteros Law Help
An animal attack can be a painful and traumatic experience. Even smaller animals are capable of inflicting severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment. The costs of medical treatment following a dog bite could cause a significant financial burden.
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Fortunately, Ballesteros Law could help you pursue your case. You may be eligible to recover compensation for your damages.
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Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
