Getting bit by someone else’s dog can have a disastrous impact on your physical, emotional, and economic well-being. Thankfully, the state of California recognizes as much and allows victims to seek compensation for the damages they incur as a result.
Learn about the most common losses that can be recovered following an animal attack below:
Economic Damages
Economic damages make up a significant portion of most personal injury payouts. Comprised of tangible monetary losses, these damages encompass both the direct and indirect expenses that accident victims incur as a result of their injuries.
In California, the following monetary losses are recoverable:
- Ambulance fees,
- Emergency department charges,
- Hospital bills,
- Office copays,
- The cost any ongoing rehabilitation,
- The cost of any anticipated surgeries,
- Lost wages,
- Loss of future earnings, and
- The cost of any reasonably necessary replacement services.
Non-Economic Damages
California also recognizes non-economic damages, which refer to non-monetary losses. While intangible, these damages can be every bit as devastating as the economic losses mentioned above. Examples include:
- Pain and suffering,
- Loss of enjoyment in life, and
- Emotional distress.
Of course, since such damages aren’t accompanied by invoices or receipts, demonstrating their extent can pose a major challenge. Thankfully, as long as you turn to a resourceful dog bite attorney, you should be able to compile at least a few convincing pieces of evidence. Such proof might include journal entries, psychological evaluations, and statements from loved ones.
California also allows the spouses (or registered domestic partners) of injured parties to sue for loss of consortium. This encompasses the loss of companionship, moral support, and intimacy that their relationship suffers as a result of the accident.
What About Punitive Damages?
Both economic and non-economic damages fall under compensatory damages, which aim to reimburse claimants for the losses they incur. Most personal injury actions, including those involving dog bites, only warrant such damages. There are some scenarios, however, in which punitive damages are also warranted. These damages attempt to penalize defendants for acting with malice, fraud, or oppression.
Since animal attacks are often unanticipated, their associated claims don’t usually call for an additional punitive award. If the owner or handler instigated the attack, though, and actually encouraged the dog to bite, the claimant’s legal team may be able to make a case for a punitive award, as well.
Speak with a Long Beach Dog Bite Attorney
Your Injuries Are Personal to Me
At the Law Office of Michael D. Waks, we take animal attacks seriously. We know just how devastating unanticipated injuries can be on the whole family, and that’s why we’re committed to holding negligent pet owners accountable.
If you were bit by someone else’s dog, we’ll help you take the steps needed to pursue the compensation you deserve. By letting us handle every aspect of your claim, you can focus on recovering from your injuries. To set up a free case review with a dog bite lawyer in Long Beach, call (562) 206-1939 or fill out our Online Contact Form.