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Find Out If You Have Grounds for a Case After a Dog Bit Accident in California

If you’ve been bitten by a dog then you likely have many questions, including whether or not you are eligible for compensation from the owners of the dog. At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we have worked with many dog bite cases over the years. We are standing by at 800-333-0000 to answer your questions during a free consultation, or you can keep reading to get answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about dog bite accidents.

Who should I call if I’ve been bitten by a dog?

If there is a serious injury then call 911. Otherwise, call the police and report it to Animal Control. Then see your doctor to have the injuries both treated and documented. Once you have reported the incident and are sure you are safe, call an experienced personal injury attorney who can help with the legal aspect of your case.

How can I prove that the owner of the dog was liable?

As long as the dog bite happened in California, you do not need to prove that the owner was liable. That’s because California law holds that by simply owning a dog, the owner has taken on responsibility for the actions of the dog. It is not necessary to prove that the owner knew their dog was capable of biting. However, you do need to prove the following:

  • The person you are suing was the dog’s owner.
  • The dog bit you while you were either on public property or while you were lawfully on private property.
  • The dog bit resulted in an injury.

When you talk to an attorney, we can help you with any questions you have about proving those elements of the case.

How much can I sue for?

The amount of your settlement or jury award will depend on your damages. This includes economic damages that can be easily tallied such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, as well as noneconomic damages such as pain and suffering and future expected medical costs. Your attorney can use a tried and true formula to determine what your case is based on the specifics of your case.

How long does it take to sue?

Many factors determine how long your case will take. It may be just a few weeks if we can negotiate a reasonable settlement with the insurance company of the defendant. If their insurance company either contests the claim or will not offer a reasonable settlement, then we may take the case to court. That can take weeks or months.

How much does it cost to sue after a dog bite injury?

When you work with an attorney like The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we take our entire fee from your settlement. This means you pay nothing upfront and do not need to come up with court costs. If we do not win your case then you do not pay us. Contact us at 800-333-0000 to learn more.