Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer
Blair & Ramirez LLP provides personal injury representation for dog bite victims in Los Angeles County and surrounding Southern California communities. Our Los Angeles dog bite lawyer represents victims and families injured by dog attacks in residential properties, apartment complexes, neighborhoods, parks, and other public settings.
These cases include injuries such as puncture wounds, infection, permanent scarring, and nerve damage, as well as dog attacks involving children, where long-term interests must be protected under California law.
We evaluate the claim, identify legally responsible parties, preserve key evidence, handle communication with insurance companies, and pursue compensation through settlement discussions or court action when the facts and injuries support it.
A free consultation with our dog bite injury attorneys can help you understand your rights and available options.
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Who Can Be Held Accountable After a Dog Attack in Los Angeles
Dog attack claims in Los Angeles often involve more than just the dog’s owner. Responsibility may depend on who owned the dog, who was handling or supervising it, and who controlled the property where the attack occurred, since these factors affect how insurance coverage applies.
Our dog bite attorney reviews the facts carefully to identify all potentially liable parties connected to the incident, so responsibility is evaluated based on control and involvement, not assumptions.
Dog Owner Liability Under California Law
Under California law, dog owners are often the primary liable party when their dog causes an injury. Liability is generally tied to ownership and control of the dog at the time of the attack.
In many cases, responsibility is addressed through homeowner’s or renter’s insurance associated with the dog owner, which may provide coverage for dog bite injuries.
Property Owners, Landlords, and Business Liability
In some situations, property owners, landlords, or businesses may also share responsibility if they controlled or managed the location where the dog attack occurred.
This can include rental homes, apartment complexes, homeowners associations, and commercial properties, particularly when separate premises insurance applies or safety issues contributed to the incident.
Third Parties in Dog Attack Claims
Responsibility may also extend to third parties such as dog walkers, pet sitters, or caretakers who had temporary control of the dog at the time of the attack.
When supervision, handling, or restraint played a role, third-party involvement may affect how liability is assessed and how a claim is pursued, including which insurance policies apply.
How Our Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney Protects Your Claim and Proves Liability
After a dog attack, early action matters because delays can affect evidence, insurance coverage, and how a claim is handled. Addressing these issues early helps prevent avoidable complications during the claims process.
Our approach to protecting a dog bite claim may include:
Legal Standards That Apply to Dog-Related Injuries in Los Angeles
Dog-related injury cases in Los Angeles are governed by legal rules that determine who may be held responsible and how long a dog bite claim remains valid.
California Strict Liability for Dog Bites (Civil Code §3342)
California follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. In general, a dog owner may be held responsible when their dog bites someone, regardless of whether the dog has shown prior aggressive behavior.
Under this standard, responsibility is based on the occurrence of the bite itself, rather than the dog’s past conduct.
Deadlines for Filing a Dog Bite Claim in California
The time limit to file a dog bite claim is two years from the date of injury, though limited exceptions may apply.
Delays matter because evidence can become harder to obtain, and missed deadlines may limit available legal options.
If you are unsure about timing, our LA personal injury attorneys can confirm how the deadline typically applies to your situation.
Local Ordinances That May Affect Your Dog Bite Case
Local Los Angeles ordinances can influence how responsibility is evaluated after a dog attack, particularly in public or shared spaces. Examples include:
- Leash laws: Dogs are generally required to be leashed in public areas. A bite involving an unleashed dog may be considered when evaluating whether required safety rules were followed.
- Park-specific rules: City, county, and state parks may have posted animal control regulations that govern where dogs are allowed and how they must be restrained. Violations may be relevant when assessing responsibility.
- Other local safety regulations: Additional municipal or animal control rules may apply depending on the location and circumstances of the incident.
When local ordinances are not followed, these issues may be considered alongside other evidence when determining responsibility in a dog bite injury case.
Common Injuries Caused by Dog Bite Incidents in Los Angeles
National injury data show that dog bites frequently result in medical treatment and lasting harm. In 2023 alone, there were more than 19,000 dog bite injury claims nationwide, with an average claim cost of over $58,000, reflecting the serious physical and financial impact these injuries can have.
Dog attacks can lead to a wide range of injuries, from treatable wounds to lasting physical damage.
Medical Costs, Lost Income, and Pain & Suffering
Puncture wounds
Deep wounds caused by a dog’s teeth that can damage underlying tissue and increase the risk of infection.
Lacerations
Cuts or tears in the skin that may require stitches and can result in permanent scarring.
Tendon and muscle injuries
Damage that can limit strength or range of motion and may require surgical treatment or rehabilitation.
Fractures
Broken bones caused by the force of a dog’s bite or during an attempt to fend off an attack.
Infections
Bacteria introduced through bite wounds that may require antibiotics or additional medical treatment if not promptly addressed.
Emotional and Psychological Effects of Dog Attacks
In addition to physical injuries, dog attacks may also result in emotional or psychological distress, particularly after traumatic incidents. Some individuals experience:
- Post-traumatic stress symptoms, such as intrusive memories or heightened fear.
- Anxiety, especially around dogs or in public spaces.
- Sleep disturbances, including nightmares or insomnia.
- Depression or mood changes that affect daily life.
Children may be especially vulnerable to these effects, as they may have difficulty processing or expressing the emotional impact of a dog attack.
What Compensation Is Available in a Los Angeles Dog Bite Case
The effects of a dog attack often go beyond the initial injury, impacting health, work, and routine activities. Compensation in Los Angeles dog bite cases is reviewed based on the specific impact the injuries had on the person involved.
- Medical Expenses and Future Treatment: Medical costs related to a dog attack may be considered, including emergency care, follow-up treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, and future medical needs tied to the injuries.
- Pain, Scarring, and Permanent Disfigurement: Physical pain and permanent changes to appearance may be considered, particularly when scarring or disfigurement affects comfort, movement, or normal activities.
- Lost Income and Reduced Earning Capacity: Lost income from time away from work may be reviewed. Injuries that limit the ability to return to the same job, maintain prior hours, or earn at the same level may also be considered.
- Emotional and Psychological Effect: Emotional harm following a dog attack, such as anxiety, fear, or psychological distress, may be considered when it affects daily functioning or well-being.
Compensation considerations can vary based on factors such as the severity and permanence of the injuries, the visibility of scarring, the injured person’s age and long-term outlook, available insurance coverage, and whether responsibility for the incident is disputed.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Los Angeles
Actions taken after a dog attack can affect medical outcomes and how a claim is later evaluated.
Here is what you can do:
Step 1: Get Medical Care Immediately
Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if the injuries appear minor. Prompt evaluation reduces infection risk and creates medical records that document the injury and its connection to the incident.
Step 2: Report the Dog Bite to Local Authorities
Reporting the incident to local or county authorities creates an official, time-stamped record. These reports support public safety and help establish when and how the incident occurred.
Step 3: Preserve Physical Evidence From the Incident
Preserved evidence helps document what occurred and how injuries happened. Items should be kept in the condition they were in immediately after the incident, including:
- Clothing worn at the time of the attack
- Personal items damaged during the incident
- Objects or surroundings involved in the event
Step 4: Document Injuries, the Scene, and Witness Information
As soon as possible, document details that may become harder to recall over time, including:
- Photos of visible injuries and healing progress
- Images of the location and conditions
- Names and contact information of witnesses
Early documentation helps preserve accurate details while memories are fresh.
Step 5: Keep Medical Records and Incident Documentation
Maintain organized copies of medical records, reports, and related correspondence. Consistent record-keeping supports a clear review of the incident, treatment, and recovery as the matter moves forward.
Step 6: Be Cautious When Speaking With Insurance Companies or the Dog Owner
After a dog attack, you may be contacted by an insurance adjuster or the dog owner. Statements made early on can later be used to dispute how the incident occurred or the extent of the injuries. It is often best to avoid giving recorded statements or discussing details of the incident until you understand how the information may be used.
Step 7: Consider Speaking With a Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer
A consultation with a dog bite lawyer can help clarify rights, timing considerations, and next steps based on the facts of the situation. Early guidance may also help prevent avoidable issues as medical treatment and insurance claims move forward.
If you have not reported the bite yet, we can tell you where and what information to include.
Why Clients Choose Blair & Ramirez for Los Angeles Dog Bite Cases
After a dog attack, choosing the right legal team often comes down to trust, communication, and experience handling serious injury matters.
What sets our approach apart is a focus on careful case preparation, clear communication, and handling each matter as if it may be contested.
- Experience with serious injury matters: Our attorneys handle cases involving significant physical injuries, lasting effects, and complex liability issues, allowing for informed case evaluation from the outset.
- Local Los Angeles knowledge: Familiarity with local agencies, court procedures, and regional considerations supports case handling that reflects how these matters are reviewed in Los Angeles.
- Clear, client-focused communication: Clients receive straightforward updates and direct access to the legal team, helping them understand how their case is progressing without unnecessary confusion.
- Preparation for disputed or litigated cases: Each matter is developed with the understanding that liability or damages may be contested, supporting thorough preparation without making outcome assurances.
- Availability and accessibility: Our team is available 24/7 to respond to time-sensitive concerns and coordinate communication as cases move forward.
- Bilingual support: Assistance is available in English and Spanish to help clients communicate comfortably throughout the process.
Areas We Serve for Dog Bite Injury Claims
Service areas include:
- Irvine
- Santa Monica
- Burbank
- Pasadena
- Glendale
- Long Beach
- Encino
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Attack Injury Claims in Los Angeles
Speak With a Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer Today
If you were injured in an attack involving a dog, speaking with a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer can help clarify your rights, timing considerations, and available options based on the facts of your situation.
A free consultation with Blair & Ramirez LLP allows you to ask questions and understand how dog bite injury matters are typically evaluated. You may contact our office by phone at (213) 577-2191 or submit a request through the online contact form to schedule a consultation.
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(213) 568-4000