Dog Bite Attorney in California
If you or a loved one was bitten by a dog in California, you may be entitled to compensation under California’s strict dog bite laws. At Saeedian Law Group, our experienced California dog bite attorneys help dog attack victims hold negligent dog owners and other liable parties accountable and pursue full compensation for medical bills, scarring, lost income, emotional trauma, and long-term care needs.
California Dog Bite Law
California follows a strict liability rule for dog bites under Civil Code §3342. Under this rule, a dog owner is liable for injuries caused by their dog even if the dog has never bitten anyone or showed aggression before. Unlike some states, California does not follow a “one-bite rule,” so victims do not have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. As long as the dog bite attack occurred in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property, the owner is usually liable.
Because of this law, dog bite victims have a strong legal right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future treatment, scarring, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Apart from dog owners, liability may also extend to landlords or property owners who knew about a dangerous dog and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm.
However, after a dog bite incident, insurers may try to reduce payouts by disputing injuries, claiming provocation, or questioning where the incident occurred. That’s why you need a California dog bite lawyer to protect your rights, prove liability, handle insurers, and pursue full compensation under the law.
Common Causes & Circumstances of Dog Bite Injuries in CA
Many dog bite incidents in California involve dogs that were not properly restrained, trained, or supervised, leading to sudden attacks in public places or private properties. Below are some of the most common causes and circumstances we see in California dog bite claims:
- Unleashed or poorly restrained dogs in popular parks (such as Griffith park, Balboa Park, etc.), sidewalks, and neighborhoods.
- Dog attacks on delivery workers, mail carriers, and service professionals lawfully on private property
- Bites occurring in apartment complexes or rental properties where landlords failed to address known risks
- Children bitten while playing near family or neighbor dogs, often due to lack of supervision
- Aggressive behavior triggered by inadequate training or neglect
- Multiple-dog attacks where owners fail to control more than one animal
- Incidents involving dogs with prior complaints or aggressive history
Who Are the Most Frequent At-Risk Victims of Dog Bites in California?
Dog and other animal bites in California affect people of all ages, but certain groups face a much higher risk due to their daily activities, environments, or level of exposure to dogs. Understanding who is most vulnerable helps explain why many dog bite injuries occur without warning.
The most vulnerable and most frequent dog bite victims are children under 10 years, due to their size, limited awareness of animal behavior, and frequent interaction with dogs. Other at-risk individuals include delivery drivers, mail carriers, utility workers, joggers, walkers, cyclists, animal caretakers, and pet sitters.
How Our California Dog Bite Lawyers Can Help
If you or your loved one is injured by a dog bite attack in California, our experienced dog bite lawyer can help you hold negligent parties accountable, handle the legal process, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can help you.
- Work with expert witnesses to strengthen your case, including veterinarians, medical specialists, accident reconstruction experts, and other professionals who can provide testimony on the severity of injuries, the dog’s behavior, and the circumstances of the attack.
- Investigate the incident thoroughly by gathering medical treatment records, witness statements, animal control reports, and prior bite history
- Prove liability under California’s strict dog bite laws, even when the owner denies fault or claims the dog never showed aggression
- Handle all communication with insurance companies to prevent low settlements or unfair blame-shifting
- Accurately calculate your damages, including medical costs, lost income, scarring, emotional distress, future care needs, and every other potential damages
- Prepare your case for trial so you can recover full and fair compensation when insurers refuse to offer a fair settlement
Areas We Serve in California
Why Choose Saeedian Law Group?
Choosing the right lawyer after a dog bite can directly affect the outcome of your case. At Saeedian Law Group, our focus is on combining legal skill with genuine client care, so you feel informed, supported, and confident at every stage of the process.
Proven Experience With California Dog Bite Law
Our experienced dog bite attorneys have deep knowledge of California’s strict liability dog bite laws and how insurers attempt to limit payouts. This allows us to build strong, well-supported claims from the start.
Results-Driven Representation
Our dog bite injury lawyers have recovered millions of dollars for injury victims across California. Our results speak for themselves. We approach every dog bite case with the same commitment – to recover compensation down to every dollar you deserve.
Personalized Legal Strategy
We understand that no two dog bite cases are the same, especially when injuries involve children, scarring, or emotional trauma. We handle your case with a strategy tailored specifically for your case, based on the facts, injuries, and long-term impact.
Clear Communication and Transparency
Our law firm keeps you informed throughout the case, with honest guidance about timelines, risks, and settlement value. You will never be left wondering where your case stands.
No Upfront Fees, No Financial Risk
Yes, you pay nothing unless we win compensation for you. Our dog bite attorneys in California offer free consultations and work on a contingency-fee basis.
FAQs About Dog Bite Cases in California
if you’re involved in a dog bite or animal attack case, you’ll most likely have questions about your rights, timelines, and potential compensation. Below are clear answers to common questions California dog bite victims ask.
What is the Statute of Limitations for California Dog Bite Cases?
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury claim under Civil Code § 335.1. The 2-year deadline also applies to cases of wrongful death resulting from dog bit injuries. If the bite involves a government entity, you have to follow the guidelines and timelines under the California Tort Claims Act (CTCA). Filing promptly helps protect your right to full compensation.
How Much Can You Sue for in a Dog Bite Claim in California?
The total amount depends on the severity of injuries and financial losses. Compensation can include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and scarring. In severe cases, damages for long-term care or disfigurement may also apply.
Who is Liable for a Dog Bite Attack in California?
As mentioned earlier, California follows a strict liability rule, so the dog owner is usually responsible, even if it was not an aggressive dog before the incident. In some cases, the fault can extend to landlords, pet sitters, or other parties who failed to control the animal.
Does California Have a One Bite Rule for Dogs?
No. California does not follow a one-bite rule, meaning the dog owner can be liable even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. Victims do not need to prove prior aggression to pursue compensation.
How Long Does It Take to Sue for a Dog Bite?
The timeline varies depending on the case complexity, insurance negotiations, and medical recovery. Many cases settle within several months, while complicated or severe cases can take 1–2 years or longer. Your lawyer can provide an estimate based on your situation.
What Is a Level 3 Dog Bite in California?
A Level 3 bite involves serious injury requiring medical treatment, such as deep lacerations, puncture wounds, or permanent scarring. These bites are often considered severe under California law and can lead to higher compensation claims.
What Should I Do After a Dog Bite Attack?
Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor bites, to prevent infection. Document the injuries. Report the attack to local animal control or law enforcement, gather witness information, and avoid confronting the dog owner directly. Contacting a California dog bite attorney as soon as possible ensures your rights are protected and your claim is handled correctly.
How to Win a Dog Bite Lawsuit?
To win a dog bite lawsuit, you have to prove the bite occurred, establish liability, and document injuries and damages. Get evidence like medical records, witness statements, photos, and bite reports to strengthen the claim. A skilled dog bite lawyer guides you through gathering proof and negotiating with insurers.