Dogs are popular pets. However, millions of dog bites occur every year across the United States due to a lack of discipline or training. Being attacked or injured by another person’s dog is unexpected and frightening and the long-term costs and care associated with injuries can feel burdensome and unmanageable.
Fortunately, you do not have to face these burdens or uncertainties alone. Your case matters to our team of trusted personal injury attorneys. Reach out to Valero Law Group Injury Lawyers to speak with a San Jose dog bite lawyer to determine your options for moving forward. We are always available for calls and only get paid if your case wins.
What To Know About Dog Bite Cases in California
Similar to many other states, California holds dog owners strictly liable for the harm their animals cause other people. The concept of strict liability means dog bite victims are not required to show that the dog who attacked them had bitten anyone previously, or that its owner acted recklessly or negligently. All an injured person would need to show is that they were bitten, and the other person owned or was responsible for the dog. This standard creates an easier burden of proof for those seeking compensation.
There are exceptions to California’s strict liability rule where an owner will not be liable if their dog bites someone. These exceptions include:
- If the victim was a trespasser and not on a person’s premises legally
- If the person in question did not own the dog but was merely taking care of it at the time of the incident
- If the injured person had assumed the risk of being bitten by the dog, such as if they were a veterinarian and that was a reasonably assumed risk accompanying the position
- If the injured person was partially responsible for the attack by provoking the dog
Additionally, people who are bitten by law enforcement dogs cannot hold the government strictly liable. If you have questions regarding liability, speak with one of our skilled San Jose dog bite attorneys about the specifics of your case.
Compensation In Dog Bite Injury Cases
It is natural to want to seek compensation when someone else’s dog has attacked you. Compensation–also known as damages–can be economic or non-economic. Economic damages are financial expenses that a person sustains due to the dog’s attack. Some examples of economic damages include medical expenses due to the incident, including related future medical expenses; loss of wages due to missing work; and costs of assistive devices, like crutches or a wheelchair.
Non-economic damages cover losses that are non-monetary and more subjective. These expenses can include pain and suffering, disfigurement, and emotional distress. A competent San Jose attorney can assess the details of your case to determine what damages an injured person can successfully seek.
Work With a San Jose Dog Bite Attorney Today
When you or a loved one sustains a dog bite injury, you do not need to handle what comes next alone. The legal system can be complicated. We can help you understand your rights, the strength of your case, and fight tirelessly on your behalf. We do not get paid unless you win, and we aim to do the best we can to help you heal. Reach out to a San Jose dog bite lawyer today.
