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Dog Bite Laws in California: Holding Owners Accountable for Their Pets’ Actions

October 25, 2023 by Michael Waks

dog snarling through fence

Dogs are beloved companions, but unfortunately, dog bites can result in serious injuries and emotional trauma. To protect the public from such incidents, California has established dog bite laws that hold owners accountable for their pet's actions. Understanding these laws is essential for promoting responsible pet ownership and ensuring public safety. In this blog post, we will explore the topic of dog bite laws in California, shedding light on the legal framework and the importance of holding … [Read more...]

California’s Dog Bite Statute: Strict Liability for Dog Owners

August 23, 2023 by Michael Waks

dog biting man's hand

Dogs are known as man's best friend, offering companionship, loyalty, and affection. However, it's important to remember that dogs are animals with instincts that can occasionally lead to unexpected behavior, including biting. In California, the state has enacted laws to protect individuals who have been bitten or injured by dogs. This blog post aims to shed light on California's dog bite statute specifically focusing on strict liability for dog owners. Understanding these laws can help both dog … [Read more...]

What Kinds of Damages Are Available in Dog Bite Claims?

January 26, 2022 by Michael Waks

mean dog

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, … [Read more...]

Does Strict Liability Apply to Dog Bite Cases in California?

August 2, 2019 by Michael Waks

dog angry bite

In the state of California, dog owners are almost always strictly liable for the damages their dogs cause in the event of an attack. As such, dog bite victims typically do not have to prove the owner was negligent in order to recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages. Unlike other states, California does not have a “one-bite rule.” That means dog owners can be held strictly liable for damages even if their animal had never bitten anyone or displayed vicious … [Read more...]

My Child Was Bitten by a Dog—Can I Sue?

July 15, 2019 by Michael Waks

Bad Dog

If your son or daughter was bitten by a dog, your family may be entitled to compensation for all resulting damages. There are, however, many ways for the dog owner and/or the insurance company to dispute your claim. For example, they might argue that your child instigated the attack or that the injuries are less severe than you’re claiming. The easiest way to find out if your case has merit is to speak with a dog bite attorney. Fortunately, most personal injury lawyers offer free consultations, … [Read more...]

What Does “Strict Liability” Mean?

March 6, 2019 by Michael Waks

Personal Injury Law On A Desk And Gavel.

Most personal injury claims are founded on the basis of negligence, which means the tortfeasor breached a duty of care owed to the claimant, resulting in his or her injury or loss. But when strict liability applies, proving the defendant was negligent is not a prerequisite to recovering damages. In the state of California, strict liability applies to certain product liability and dog bite cases. Strict Liability in Product Liability Cases A product defect can arise at any stage of the design, … [Read more...]

Is a Landlord Liable If A Tenant’s Dog Bites Someone?

July 6, 2018 by Michael Waks

dog-329280_640-300x225

California dog owners are responsible for all damages resulting from their dogs’ bites. That sounds straightforward. Unless you are the dog bite victim and the dog’s owner is a tenant without insurance. In that case, you may wonder about landlord liability for dog bites. Determining liability is important to victims because the liable person must pay for the victim’s injuries. Dog bites can cause serious scarring and permanent damage. Injuries may require multiple surgeries. Dog bites can leave … [Read more...]

Which Dog Bites Are The Most Dangerous?

June 13, 2018 by Michael Waks

chihuahua-981188_640

Parents want to keep their children safe from dog attacks without making them scared of dogs. My advice to parents is to teach children how to be safe around all dogs. After representing dog bite victims for 35 years, I know that any dog can bite in certain situations. If a dog bites your child, contact an experienced dog bite attorney as soon as possible after seeking medical care. California dog owners are responsible for damage caused when their dogs bite people. An experienced dog bite … [Read more...]

Dog Bite Homeowners Insurance Claims: Am I Covered?

June 4, 2018 by Michael Waks

dog-2848113_640-300x200

Dog bites are more common than most people would think. Dogs bite 4.5 million people each year. About 20% of these dog bite victims require medical attention. If a dog recently bit you, you may wonder if the dog’s owner has dog bite homeowners insurance. In California, dog owners are responsible for all damages resulting from a dog bite. A dog owner’s homeowners insurance usually pays for bite victims’ medical care and related damages. If the dog owner is not insured, or the insurance limits … [Read more...]

Who pays the vet bills when one dog bites another dog?

June 1, 2018 by Michael Waks

Cute-Pet-Animal-Purebred-Canine-Dog-Pup-Puppy

In California, a dog owner is responsible for any injuries caused when their dog bites a person. But what if the dog bite victim is another dog? California’s dog bite law does not apply to situations where one dog bites another dog. Despite this, when a dog bite victim is a canine, the victim’s owner can often recover damages. California Dog Owners Are Strictly Liable for Dog Bites California’s dog bite statute says “(a) The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person … [Read more...]

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Michael Waks is The attorney you want to resolve your accident issues, period. He is knowledgeable, efficient, and gets maximum results when you are injured.

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