Dog bites and attacks can cause serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. In California, victims of dog bites have legal options to seek compensation for their suffering. Whether the attack was unprovoked or caused by a negligent pet owner, the law protects individuals from the consequences of these incidents.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog in Beverly Hills, it’s essential to understand your rights. Seeking legal representation from an experienced dog bite attorney can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve. At BD&J, we specialize in handling dog bite injury cases in Beverly Hills, ensuring victims receive justice and fair compensation for their damages.
California’s Dog Bite Statute and Relevant Laws
California follows a strict liability rule regarding dog bites. According to California Civil Code Section 3342, a dog owner is responsible for injuries caused by their pet, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression. Unlike some states that require proof of prior attacks, California law holds owners accountable even if their dog has never bitten anyone before.
Additionally, local leash laws in Beverly Hills require dog owners to keep their pets restrained in public areas. If an unleashed dog attacks someone, the owner may face additional penalties. An attorney can help victims prove negligence and establish liability, ensuring dog owners are held responsible for failing to control their pets.
What’s the Role of Insurance in Dog Bite Cases?
In many dog bite cases, homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies cover damages resulting from a dog attack. If the dog owner has insurance, their policy may compensate the victim for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, offering settlements that may not fully cover the victim’s expenses.
That’s where BD&J comes in. We negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to ensure victims receive the maximum compensation possible. If the owner is uninsured or their policy denies the claim, pursuing legal action may be necessary to recover damages.
Long-Term Effects of Dog Bite Injuries
A dog bite injury isn’t just a temporary inconvenience — it can lead to long-term physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Some of the most severe effects include:
- Scarring and disfigurement. Many dog bites result in permanent scars, which can be distressing, especially if they appear on visible areas, such as the face or hands.
- Nerve and tissue damage. A deep bite can sever nerves, tendons or muscles, leading to long-term pain, limited mobility, and even disability.
- Infections. Dog bites can introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infections, such as rabies or cellulitis, which may require extensive medical treatment.
- Psychological trauma. Many victims, especially children, develop post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, or a lifelong fear of dogs following an attack.
Types of Damages You Can Receive in a Dog Bite Case
Victims of dog bites may be entitled to several forms of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses. Covers hospital bills, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and future medical treatments
- Lost wages. Compensates victims for income lost due to time off work during recovery
- Pain and suffering. Provides compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury
- Disfigurement and scarring. Accounts for permanent scars and disfigurement resulting from the attack
- Loss of earning capacity. Compensates the victim for reduced future earning potential if the injury results in a long-term disability
- Property damage. Reimburses the victim if the attack caused damage to personal belongings, such as torn clothing or broken glasses
What to Do After Suffering a Dog Attack
Taking the right steps after a dog bite can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s what to do if you’re bitten:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Even minor bites can become infected, so it’s essential to get medical treatment right away.
- Identify the dog and owner. Obtain contact information for the dog owner and any witnesses to the attack.
- Report the attack. Notify local authorities or animal control to document the incident.
- Take photos of your injuries. Visual evidence can be crucial in proving the severity of your injury.
- Avoid speaking with insurance companies alone. Insurance adjusters may try to downplay your claim, so consult a Beverly Hills dog bite lawyer before accepting any settlement offers.
- Contact an experienced attorney. A dog bite injury attorney in Beverly Hills can guide you through the legal process and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
Navigating a dog bite case can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with medical expenses, emotional distress, and insurance companies. When you work with BD&J Injury Lawyers, we take these steps to help develop your case:
- Investigate the incident thoroughly to determine liability
- Gather medical records, witness statements, and other evidence to strengthen your case
- Handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies
- Represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
Our goal is to ensure that victims receive the full compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite in Beverly Hills, don’t wait — contact us. Schedule a free consultation today.
