Understanding Dog Bite Laws in California

California follows strict liability laws when it comes to dog bites. This means a dog owner can be held responsible for injuries caused by their pet, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. Under California Civil Code § 3342, the victim does not need to prove negligence, only that:

• The defendant owned the dog.
• The bite occurred in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property.
• The victim suffered injuries as a result of the bite.
  
  

However, exceptions exist, such as if the victim was trespassing or provoked the dog. If you are unsure if you have a valid claim, reach out to our team today. We can help assess your case and determine your options for seeking compensation.

Common Injuries from Dog Bites

The aftermath of a dog attack can result in severe physical injuries and long-lasting emotional effects, including:

• Puncture wounds and lacerations
• Infections (rabies, tetanus, etc.)
• Nerve damage
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  
  

Medical treatment for dog bites can be expensive, involving emergency care, stitches, antibiotics, and sometimes even reconstructive surgery. If the attack is severe, you may also face lost wages due to time off work.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in Folsom

If a dog has bitten you or a loved one, you should follow these steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if the bite appears minor, prompt treatment is essential to prevent infection and ensure proper care.
2. Identify the Dog and Its Owner: For your safety and legal purposes, you should document the dog's breed, size, and the owner’s contact details. If possible, you should get a copy of the proof of rabies vaccination.
3. Report the Incident: Notify local animal control or law enforcement to document the attack and initiate any necessary actions formally.
4. Take Photos and Document the Scene: Capture clear pictures of your injuries, the location of the attack, and any visible evidence that could support your case.
5. Collect Witness Information: If there were any witnesses, get their names and contact details so that they can provide supporting statements about the incident. This will help prove you were not provoking the attack. 
6. Call the Law Office of Brian P. Azemika: Contact the Law Office of Brian P. Azemika for guidance on pursuing compensation through the dog owner’s insurance or a personal injury claim.
   
   

Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite?

In most cases, the dog's owner is responsible for injuries caused by the pet. However, other parties may also be liable, such as:

• Property owners if the attack occurred due to negligent security (e.g., a landlord who knew a dangerous dog was on the premises).
• Dog walkers or caretakers if they fail to control the animal.
• Employers if the dog was part of a business (e.g., a security dog).
  
  

The Law Office of Brian P. Azemika can investigate the circumstances of your case and determine all possible sources of compensation.

Compensation for Dog Bite Victims

If a dog has bitten you, you may receive compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Punitive damages
  
  

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, so having representation is crucial.

Reach out to the Law Office of Brian P. Azemika

At the Law Office of Brian P. Azemika, we are committed to advocating for the rights of injury victims in Folsom and across California. We offer:

• Free Consultations
• Aggressive Representation
• Personalized Attention

In California, you have a two-year statute of limitations for filing a dog bite claim. The sooner you reach out to our team, the stronger your case will be, so don't wait to contact us today. Let us help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.