Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney | Legal Action, Compensation & Expert Advocacy
An unexpected attack from a dog is a scary surprise event that can leave you feeling emotionally shaken, physically violated and vulnerable, and in search of allies to come to your defense. While dogs are beloved across Los Angeles and the City of Angels is one of the most canine-friendly cities in America, the popularity of dog ownership has led to a steady uptick in local dog bite incidents. If you have recently encountered a dog that has bitten you or otherwise injured you with its impulsive or aggressive actions, there are a variety of legal options to remedy your situation quickly and restore normalcy to your life. Blair & Ramirez LLP, an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney, has helped dozens of Los Angeles dog bite victims regain order and is a committed advocate who can expertly guide you through your difficult ordeal.
Knowing what to do after a dog bite incident starts with knowing in advance your rights as a victim, the most important steps to take once an attack has occurred, and how experienced attorney representation plays an important role in helping you analyze and obtain due compensation for your injury. In a city like Los Angeles, where dog walkers are plentiful and unexpected attacks from triggered animals are not uncommon, having an open avenue for support may be the difference between immediate recovery and extended suffering. Blair & Ramirez employs a proven strategy to get dog bite victims back on their feet and moving forward.
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Understanding California Dog Bite Laws and How They Apply in Los Angeles
California's dog bite law is a doctrine of strict liability, where the owners of dogs are responsible for harm or damage caused by their pets regardless of whether they were acting negligent or may have known that their pet had been previously engaged in an aggressive incident The strict liability statute ensures a victim is protected and will be compensated for any injuries sustained in the encounter.
In Los Angeles, additional local laws such as leash ordinances and licensing oblige dog owners to take on greater responsibilities and duty of care for their animal. These requirements are intended to ensure public safety in urban areas, and owners are liable under such laws if a dog bite occurs in a public area or if the victim is authorized to be within a private location. Dog owners are obligated to meet all legal requirements to allow their dogs to come in contact with and interact with other people outside of their homes.
California’s Strict Liability Rule (Civil Code §3342)
Under California's doctrine of strict liability expressed in Civil Code §3342, owners of dogs will be responsible for any act of harm caused by their dog, whether or not their dog has a prior history of biting someone. This means that when a dog bites someone, the owner’s liability to the consequences cannot be dismissed on account of ignorance regarding the harm their dog could have done, nor can it be dismissed due to exercising reasonable care. (It is important to note that many states other than California uphold a negligence-based system, whereby a victim has to prove that the owner was negligent or did not control his or her dog in some way. Victims in these other states would need to prove that the owner knew their dog was violent or adequate safety measures were not being employed.)
The California strict liability law facilitates suing for dog bites since the victims are not required to prove negligence; they only need to prove the bite occurred and was inflicted by the defendant’s canine. This simplifies the path for the victim to recover medical costs, lost wages, and other damages since California courts focus almost entirely on the act itself rather than the owner's actions leading up to it. This simpler process ensures greater accountability for dog owners, allows justice for victims to be delivered more expediently, and promotes enhanced public safety.
Can I Sue the Owner of a Dog That Bit Me?
Yes, you can sue a dog owner whose pet bit you. In California, dog owners are strictly liable for harm inflicted by their dogs on other persons. The act must occur in the state, the dog must be owned or controlled by the defendant, and the injury must be serious enough to have needed medical attention.
For instance, if you were walking down the street in Venice Beach and a dog approached you, jumped on you then attacked you, and bit your arm in a manner that required immediate medical care and stitches, you would have clear grounds to sue or seek settlement compensation from the owner.
If you are unsure if you can make a claim, talking to a LA-based lawyer specializing in animal attacks can clear things up and advise you on what to do next.
Defenses and Exceptions to Owner Liability
There are certain circumstances when the dog owner is not liable for a bite. Some of the common defenses include:
- Trespassing: If the victim was trespassing on the owner's property when bitten, the owner is not necessarily responsible. This defense is based on the principle that people should not anticipate protection from a dog while trespassing.
- Provocation: Should the victim incite the dog—such as teasing, slapping, or otherwise inciting the dog towards aggression—the owner may try to argue that the victim's instigation caused the bite. Provocation is highly effective in nullifying a case.
- Working Dogs: Depending on the circumstances, specially trained dogs for work, such as police dogs or service dogs, may have different standards of liability. If a working dog bites someone while performing its normal course of work, the owner is not necessarily liable, especially if the bite was caused by conduct in furtherance of lawful purposes.
Local Ordinances That May Affect Your Dog Bite Case
Los Angeles has additional laws and statues in place that can affect your case. Example local laws are:
- Leash Laws: In Los Angeles, dogs need to be leashed out in public. If a dog bites someone in an area where it is not supposed to be off-leash, the owner will be liable.
- Park Laws: Certain state, county, and city parks (e.g. MacArthur Park, Runyon Canyon) have additional laws posted for how dogs need to behave and be kept under control. Disobeying those laws, which are usually posted clearly on brown or green signs at park entrances, will strengthen a victim's case if a bite occurs.
- Breed Restrictions: Certain breeds can be subject to certain regulations or restrictions in Los Angeles. If a restricted breed is involved in a bite incident, this can increase liability and the responsibility of the owner.
It is important to understand these local laws because they can transfer liability or make a claim stronger. Local LA attorneys with dog bite case experience know how these rules work and can be of critical assistance in navigating your case to a successful conclusion.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims in California
In California, the time limit for filing a dog bite claim is two years from the date of the incident. This is the typical time limit for most personal injury claims, including those that occur as a result of animal bites. But if your claim is against a government agency—such as a dog bite in a state park—you have a six-month time limit to file a claim against the government.
Exceptions to such time deadlines are available, among them the delayed discovery doctrine that can be utilized when victims, particularly children, may not necessarily know the severity of their wounds.
The sooner you speak to a lawyer, the safer your rights will be.
Types of Dog Bite Injuries
Injuries caused by dog bites can seriously impact victims physically, emotionally, and chronically. These can range from minor flesh wounds to long-term psychological damage, each requiring due medical attention and rehabilitation. It is important for victims to know and properly assess their recoverable injuries and damages as they file for compensation.
Physical Injuries from Dog Attacks
Injuries caused by dog bites can seriously impact victims physically, emotionally, and chronically. These can range from minor flesh wounds to long-term psychological damage, each requiring due medical attention and rehabilitation. It is important for victims to know and properly assess their recoverable injuries and damages as they file for compensation.
Puncture Wounds
Injuries that occur to skin layers penetrated and ruptured by the dog's teeth, which can lead to excessive blood loss and short-term tissue damage.
Lacerations
Deeper cuts that may require stitches and lead to permanent scarring.
Torn Tendons
Tendon rupture can lead to loss of function and/or range of mobility, requiring surgery to fix.
Fractures
Force from a dog’s jaws during a bite can produce broken bones, particularly in hands, arms, or legs when a victim defends oneself or fights back.
Infections
Bacteria that are present in the dog's mouth can pass into the body through bite wounds and result in serious infections that must be treated with antibiotics, and in extreme cases require extended and/or specialized hospitalization.
Infection risk is one of the primary concerns for victims of dog bites, since an untreated wound can lead to long-term and even life-threatening complications such as cellulitis or abscesses. Addressing physical injuries is a large part of damage claims because the healing process tends to be very expensive with respect to medical and rehabilitation costs.
Emotional and Psychological Trauma
Victims of canine bites typically experience various accompanying emotional and psychological problems such as:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Victims experience mental and psychological reenactments of the event in the form of flashbacks, nightmares, or emotionally overwhelming memories.
Anxiety
Dogs or other fear-inducing situations may trigger anxiety and social avoidance behavior.
Sleep Disorders
Victims might experience insomnia or disturbed sleep resulting from anxiety or nightmares related to the attack.
Depression
An onset of despair or hopelessness may occur, disrupting daily life and social relationships.
Children are especially vulnerable to the psychological effects of dog bites, as they may not yet know the full impact of the trauma and how to process and verbally express their feelings. The psychological harm can hinder their personal growth and relationship development. Your attorney can include these emotional and psychological damages in your claim for compensation so that all elements of the victim’s pain and suffering are adequately addressed and compensated for by the case results.
Children and Dog Bites: Special Legal Protections and Risks
Children are more at risk in dog attacks, and California law offers them additional protection. Due to their smaller size and reduced situational awareness, children are more likely to be seriously injured in dog attacks. California law provides parents with certain legal remedies, including the right to pursue claims on behalf of their children for dog bite injuries.
Parents and guardians of children victimized by dog bites are responsible for navigating them through the legal process and ensuring they pursue and recover medical expenses, emotional distress, and other losses from the attack. Long-term effects of children being attacked by dogs can include physical scarring, severe emotional distress, and behavioral issues such as social withdrawal, which require ongoing therapy or counseling.
Early legal action is vital in child-related bite cases because it ensures that A) the victim receives proper and perhaps life-saving medical attention and B) that the victim’s rights are fully protected during the course of justice. Taking prompt action can help secure full compensation for injuries to the child and help facilitate their recovery.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Dog Bite?
In dog bites, the responsible party is not always just the owner of the dog. Various parties and individuals may be sued depending on the circumstances leading to the incident. It is essential for victims of dog bites to understand who can be sued so that they can recover all relevant damages for their injuries. Here is a list of the most important responsible parties in dog bites:
Primary Responsibility of the Dog Owner
In nearly all dog bite cases, the owner of the dog is liable. Under California's doctrine of strict liability, owners of dogs are accountable for the injury caused by their dogs, regardless of whether the owner was negligent or had knowledge in advance about the vicious nature of their dog. What this means is that if a person is bitten by a dog, the owner will be at fault and responsible for covering the victim's injuries and damages.
But there are certain exceptions where liability can change. For example, if the victim was in any way provoking the dog or trespassing on property the dog was guarding, the owner's liability may be diminished or eliminated. And if the dog were being led by another person (e.g., a dog walker) at the time of the bite, that individual may likewise be held accountable. Despite these exceptions, suing the dog owner is generally the easiest and most direct means for obtaining recovery for victims.
Liability of Property Owners and Landlords
In some cases, the property owners or landlords may also be held liable for dog bites that take place on their property. A landlord is liable if they had prior knowledge that there was a dangerous dog on the premises, or if the dog had access to places where visitors or guests were likely to be confronted aggressively and injured. For example, if a landlord knows that a dog belonging to a certain tenant has a violent history and does nothing about it, they can be held responsible for any injuries inflicted by the dog on visitors.
Landlord responsibility typically hinges on prior knowledge. The landlord may not be liable if they were unaware the dog was dangerous. However, if they received complaints from other tenants or witnessed aggressive behavior and did nothing, their failure to act would leave them vulnerable to liability in a dog bite case. Victims must understand these distinctions prior to pursuing all potential sources of recovery.
Third-Party Liability: Dog Walkers, Caretakers, and Others
Any person in control of a dog can be liable. This includes dog walkers, pet sitters, and groomers who are temporarily placed in control of a dog. When a dog under their watch bites someone, these third-party individuals can be held responsible for the resulting injuries, especially if they were proven to be negligent.
Negligence is applicable in cases where the caretaker did not exercise reasonable care in the management of the dog. For example, a dog walker in downtown Culver City who fails to properly secure a leash or take notice of warning signs of aggression can be considered negligent if the dog bites another individual. Similarly, a pet sitter who leaves a door ajar for the dog to dart out and bite another person could be held responsible. It is crucial to identify all parties liable in a dog bite case, since it can make a substantial difference in the final amount of damages recovered by the victim.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Injury
In dog bites, the responsible party is not always just the owner of the dog. Various parties and individuals may be sued depending on the circumstances leading to the incident. It is essential for victims of dog bites to understand who can be sued so that they can recover all relevant damages for their injuries. Here is a list of the most important responsible parties in dog bites:
Step 1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention and Report the Incident
The well-being and health of the victim need to be given top priority. Anyone who has been bitten by a dog needs to go to the emergency room or an urgent care center immediately. Medical professionals can assess the severity of the injuries, administer proper treatment, and avoid infection.
After seeking medical care, victims must also report the attack to the competent authorities, e.g. LA Animal Services. Filing a report is significant as it establishes a record of the attack, which sets the basis for determining and scheduling follow-up legal hearings. This important foundational step not only assures the victim that they receive proper treatment but also produces essential case documentation that can play a crucial role in claiming restitution.
Step 2: Preserve Evidence for Your Legal Case
Preserving evidence is a crucial step towards building a strong case legally after a dog bite attack. The victims immediately need to respond to collect and preserve any possible evidence that would help prove their case. Here are some essential steps that have to be carried out:
- Save Torn Clothing: If clothes were ripped when attacked by a dog, they can be used as strong material evidence of the attack. Do not repair or clean any damaged clothing; it must be preserved in its original condition immediately after the attack.
- Take Photos: Record the injuries resulting from dog bite and the property area where the attack happened. Photos can be used as visible proof that is instrumental in determining responsibility.
- Record Witness Names: If there were any witnesses to the attack, write down their names and contact details. Witness statements can corroborate the victim's version of the attack and make the case stronger.
- Keep All Paperwork: Maintain copies of medical records, bills, and any dated and timestamped correspondence concerning the incident. This paperwork will be essential in proving damages and costs incurred as a result of the dog bite.
By following these measures to collect and prepare evidence, victims greatly improve their possibilities of a favorable legal result.
Step 3: How to Prove Liability in a Dog Bite Case
Establishing liability in a dog bite case is a product of collecting multiple forms of evidence that show clear responsibility on the part of the owner or caretaker for the assault. Here are some major points to consider:
- Bite History: Evidence of the dog’s bite history or otherwise aggressive pattern of behavior could be important. Should the dog have a known aggression history, this can be used to establish that the owner had knowledge of the hazard to others posted by their pet.
- Veterinary Records: Vet records can highlight the health and behavioral characteristics of the dog. If the dog already was diagnosed with aggression or other concerning conduct, this can be used to make the argument for liability.
- Incident Reports: Any official reports made to local authorities like animal control or the police can be valuable records of the incident. Such reports usually provide more specific information on the attack and what happened afterwards.
The responsibility of proving causation falls on the victim and their legal support team. An experienced personal injury attorney can help gather and interpret the evidence, make a direct link between the actions of the dog and the injuries sustained, and navigate the technicalities of the relevant California laws. They can also help negotiate with the insurance companies and battle them to defend the rights of the victim, making sure all aspects of their case are examined and addressed.
What You Can Recover in a Dog Bite Claim
In pursuing a dog bite claim, victims can recover economic damages, non-economic damages, and future losses. Compensation amounts essentially depend on producing sufficient documentation of injuries, expenses, and the level of impact on the victim's life.
Medical Costs, Lost Income, and Pain & Suffering
Economic Damages: These are quantifiable costs, including:
- Medical Costs: Expenses tied to necessary treatments such as:
- Emergency room services
- Surgical interventions (e.g., reconstructive surgery)
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy
- Lost Income: Damages for income lost due to time missed from work, including:
- Days missed for recovery
- Loss of earning potential
Non-Economic Damages: These are intangible and include:
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and mental suffering.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Impact on the victim's ability to enjoy activities they once found enjoyable.
- Example: A victim with chronic pain and emotional trauma from a pitbull attack may be awarded $50,000 for pain and suffering based on similar precedent awards.
Future Medical Expenses and Emotional Distress Damages
Future Medical Expenses: Estimated cost of ongoing treatment, including:
- Estimated Surgeries: Estimated future surgeries and their costs.
- Rehabilitation: Ongoing physical therapy or rehabilitation treatment.
- Long-Term Medications: Estimated cost of medications required.
Example: A canine attack victim in Manhattan Beach will require two future surgeries at $10,000 each and regular therapy that costs $200 per biweekly session for 2 years, adding $30,400 to the total claim amount.
- Emotional Distress Damages: Compensation for psychological impacts, including:
- Daily Disruption: Anxiety, depression, or PTSD on daily life and relationships.
Example: An Iraq War veteran suffers a relapse of her previously diagnosed PTSD due to a dog attack while hiking in the Hollywood Hills and must resume therapy visits to her psychologists; these visits can be made a part of the claim.
Generally, dog bite victims can recover a handful of different kinds of damages that encompass immediate as well as future needs. Proper documentation of all the medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional consequences is necessary to have a strong case and recover an adequate amount of compensation.
Average Dog Bite Settlement in California
In California, the average settlements for dog bites vary widely based on severity of injuries, insurance policy, and fault. On average, settlements vary from $10,000 for minor injuries to over $300,000 for serious injuries, averaging around $68,125 as of 2025. The ultimate compensation may also be based on other factors such as the fault of the victim.
Average Dog Bite Settlement in California
Dollar Ranges:
- Minor injuries: $10,000 to $30,000
- Moderate injuries: $30,000 to $100,000
- Serious injuries: $100,000 to $300,000 or more
- Average settlement: Around $68,125
Factors Influencing Settlements:
- Severity of Injuries: The severity of the injuries sustained dictates the negotiation floor and ceiling as well as the final agreed-upon value of the settlement. More serious injuries are likely to attract greater compensation.
- Insurance Coverage: The dog owner's insurance policy may limit the value of the settlement. Low coverage levels in the policy may restrict the compensation.
- Fault: California follows a rule of comparative negligence, and if the victim is partially at fault, then the compensation can be reduced proportionate to the fault.
Every case is unique, and there are various variables that can determine the final settlement amount.
What You Can Recover in a Dog Bite Claim
At Blair & Ramirez LLP, we take a client-centered approach to handling dog bite cases. Our process is as follows:
- Consultation: We begin with a preliminary consultation to get to know the basic facts of your case and your overarching needs and expectations.
- Investigation: Our investigators conduct a thorough legal analysis to gather evidence and establish the facts of the case.
- Resolution: We strive to negotiate a fair settlement based on facts and established California court case precedents, or prepare for trial if necessary.
This structured approach enables us to provide personalized support and efficient representation through the execution of proven legal processes.
Free Consultation and Case Evaluation
Our engagement with you begins with a free, zero-obligation consultation. During this initial meeting, we will review the facts of your case, assess your legal eligibility, and discuss recommended next steps. Our goal is to provide you with a clear understanding of your options moving forward. We operate on a contingency-based billing model, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. Many clients feel more confident after this first call, knowing they have a competent, professional, and dedicated team ready to support them.
In-Depth Investigation and Evidence Collection
Building a strong case requires strong evidence. Our team will take key steps to gather the necessary information, including photographing injuries, contacting witnesses, and pulling veterinary or animal control reports. This thorough investigation is crucial, as it not only strengthens your case but also enhances our ability to negotiate effectively with insurance companies or present a compelling argument in court if needed.
Negotiation or Litigation: Pursuing Full Recovery
In pursuing full recovery, we distinguish between negotiation and litigation. Initially, our lawyers will seek maximum settlements through negotiation, often starting with a demand letter outlining your case and the compensation sought. If negotiations do not yield a satisfactory outcome, we are prepared to move forward with litigation, which may include pre-trial mediation to resolve disputes. We do not back down or take shortcuts if we feel that full compensation is on the line, ensuring that your rights and interests are vigorously defended throughout the process.
Why You Need a Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney
In pursuing full recovery, we distinguish between negotiation and litigation. Initially, our lawyers will seek maximum settlements through negotiation, often starting with a demand letter outlining your case and the compensation sought. If negotiations do not yield a satisfactory outcome, we are prepared to move forward with litigation, which may include pre-trial mediation to resolve disputes. We do not back down or take shortcuts if we feel that full compensation is on the line, ensuring that your rights and interests are vigorously defended throughout the process.
How Attorneys Maximize Compensation for Victims
Compensation is not automatic nor is a foregone conclusion—it must be earned through strategy and persuasive argument. Attorneys use a variety of methods to maximize the value of a case, such as:
- Proper Documentation: Collecting and organizing medical reports, injury photographs, and accident reports to create a solid foundation for the claim.
- Expert Witnesses: Retaining industry-specific professionals, like medical experts or accident reconstruction specialists, to provide authoritative evidence that supports the victim's cause.
- Claim Timing: Understanding when to file a claim so that evidence is up to date and the interests of the victim are defended.
- Hardball Negotiation: Effectively negotiating with insurance companies so that the best payout is made, based on the strength of the case and the evidence acquired.
Lawyer expertise supporting your case has the tendency to obtain a bigger payout, as specialists know the fine points of the law so that they can properly represent the client.
The Reality of Dog Attacks in Los Angeles
Dog bites are a going concern in Los Angeles, with the vibrant city activity, year-round pleasant weather, wealth of walkable neighborhoods, and diverse dog population contributing to elevated public encounters between humans and dogs. As much as people enjoy spending time outside with their dogs in the City of Angels, it also exposes them to unexpected interactions that can result in tense encounters that lead to serious injuries. It is important for pedestrians, residents, and pet owners to be informed about local trends and statistics on dog bites.
Let’s examine the specific trends for dog bites in LA, the common factors in these cases, and why it is vital to have a seasoned dog bite attorney by your side in case you are a victim.
FAQs for Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorneys
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