Dog bites can cause severe injuries and emotional trauma in Los Angeles County. Michael D. Waks is a dog bite accident lawyer who assists victims in holding dog owners accountable and recovering compensation for medical treatment, pain, and suffering. His team handles claims involving homeowners, landlords, and public spaces. Call Michael D. Waks at (888) 394-1174 for a free consultation and protect your rights after a dog bite incident.
What Compensation Is Available After a Dog Bite
Dog bites are more than just a painful injury—they can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. In Los Angeles County, where millions of residents live in close proximity to pets, dog bites are a common issue. If you or a loved one has been bitten, understanding your legal rights and the types of compensation available can help you recover from the incident and protect your future.
Dog bites can cause severe lacerations, infections, and in some cases, permanent scarring. Victims may also experience emotional trauma, anxiety, and fear of animals. Medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work can lead to significant financial strain. California law recognizes these consequences and allows victims to pursue compensation from the responsible parties.
California Law on Dog Bites
California has strict liability laws regarding dog bites. Under Civil Code Section 3342, a dog owner is generally responsible for injuries caused by their dog biting someone, regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of aggression. This means victims often do not need to prove negligence—the mere fact that the dog caused injury is sufficient to establish liability.
However, there are exceptions. For instance, if the victim was trespassing on private property or provoking the dog at the time of the bite, the owner may not be held liable. Similarly, if the bite occurred while the victim was committing a crime, compensation claims could be reduced or denied. Understanding these nuances is important when pursuing a dog bite claim.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims of dog bites in Los Angeles County may be entitled to various types of compensation depending on the severity of their injuries and the circumstances of the attack.
1. Medical Expenses
The most immediate form of compensation is for medical costs. Dog bites often require emergency treatment, stitches, antibiotics, and sometimes surgery. In severe cases, victims may need reconstructive procedures or long-term care to manage infections, nerve damage, or scarring. Compensation can cover:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays
- Surgical procedures
- Medications
- Follow-up care and rehabilitation
It is essential to keep detailed medical records, including bills, prescriptions, and notes from healthcare providers, to support your claim.
2. Lost Wages and Lost Earning Capacity
Injuries from a dog bite can prevent victims from working for days, weeks, or even months. Compensation can cover lost wages for the time missed and, in some cases, future lost earning capacity if the injury impacts the ability to perform certain tasks or pursue a career. For example, a severe hand injury could prevent a construction worker from returning to their job at the same capacity.
3. Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering refer to the physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by the injury. California law allows victims to recover damages for both the immediate pain of the bite and the ongoing effects, such as scarring, nerve damage, or mobility limitations. Emotional trauma, anxiety, and fear of animals may also be considered when calculating pain and suffering damages.
4. Emotional and Psychological Impact
Dog bites can result in psychological trauma that affects daily life, relationships, and mental health. Victims may develop anxiety, post-traumatic stress, or phobias related to dogs. Counseling or therapy may be necessary, and these costs can be included in compensation claims. Documenting mental health treatment and its impact on your life strengthens your case.
5. Property Damage
In some cases, dog bites can also result in property damage. For example, a dog that bites through a fence may damage the structure, or personal items may be ruined in the incident. Compensation can include the cost of repairing or replacing damaged property.
6. Punitive Damages
While less common, punitive damages may be available if the dog owner acted recklessly or intentionally ignored the risk posed by their animal. For instance, if the owner had a history of aggressive behavior from the dog and failed to restrain it, a court might award additional damages to punish the negligent behavior and deter future incidents.
Filing a Dog Bite Claim in Los Angeles
To pursue compensation after a dog bite, victims typically follow several steps:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Prompt treatment not only protects your health but also documents the extent of your injuries.
- Report the Incident – Notify local animal control or law enforcement to create an official record. This report can be valuable evidence in a legal claim.
- Document the Evidence – Take photographs of the injuries, the dog, and the location of the bite. Collect witness statements if possible.
- Identify the Dog Owner – In order to pursue compensation, you must know who owns the dog. If the dog is a neighbor’s or someone you know, confirming ownership is critical.
- Consult a Personal Injury Attorney – A lawyer experienced in dog bite cases can help evaluate your claim, communicate with insurance companies, and ensure your rights are protected.
Insurance Considerations
Many dog bite claims are resolved through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Policies often cover injuries caused by pets, but insurers may attempt to minimize payouts. An experienced attorney can negotiate with the insurance company and, if necessary, pursue litigation to obtain fair compensation.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Even though California law provides strict liability for dog bites, insurance companies may still dispute claims, especially in cases where the victim’s behavior or shared fault is questioned. Legal representation ensures that victims are properly compensated for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term consequences.
A personal injury lawyer can also help determine whether additional parties, such as landlords, property managers, or caretakers, may share liability if negligence contributed to the incident. They can gather evidence, work with medical experts, and advocate for maximum compensation.
Preventing Dog Bite Injuries
While not all dog bites are preventable, taking certain precautions can reduce risk:
- Avoid approaching unfamiliar dogs.
- Do not disturb dogs while they are eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.
- Teach children safe behavior around pets.
- Report aggressive dogs to local authorities.
Even with precautions, accidents can occur, and understanding your legal rights is crucial.
Fight for Accountability with a Los Angeles County Dog Bite Accident Attorney
Dog bite injuries can cause physical and emotional scars, but victims have legal rights. Michael D. Waks is a Los Angeles County dog bite accident attorney who helps clients recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. His firm provides compassionate and determined representation for every case. Contact Michael D. Waks at (888) 394-1174 for a free consultation and learn how to hold negligent dog owners accountable.