Bakersfield Dog Bite Attorney

Attacked By a Dog in Bakersfield? Contact Us Today for a Free Case Review

At Saeedian Law Group, our Bakersfield dog bite lawyer is standing by, ready to help protect your rights and your interests. Dogs have the potential to cause serious, even permanent, damage. Young children and senior citizens are especially vulnerable. If you or your loved one was attacked by a dangerous dog, we are here to help. For a free, no-obligation initial consultation with a top-rated Bakersfield, CA dog bite attorney, please do not hesitate to contact us today. 

Dog Bites Require Immediate Medical Attention

Were you or your loved one bitten by a dog in Bakersfield or elsewhere in Kern County? Immediate medical attention from a qualified doctor is a must. Dog bites can inflict catastrophic injuries that demand urgent and aggressive medical intervention. Immediate treatment is necessary to clean wounds, start antibiotics if needed, and rule out serious complications such as crushed bones or severed tendons. Beyond that, getting prompt medical care can also help to build a strong foundation for your personal injury claim. Some of the most common dog bite injuries reported in Bakersfield include: 

• Severe lacerations; 
• Deep puncture wounds; 
• Nerve damage; 
• Infections; 
• Fractured/broken bones; 
• Facial scarring; 
• Amputations; and
• Permanent disfigurement.

What to Know About Dog Bite Liability in California

Dog bite injury claims fall under state law. If you are attacked by a dog in Bakersfield, your claim will be governed by California dog bite liability law. Under California law (California Civil Code § 3342), dog owners are held strictly liable when their dog bites someone. Put another way, that means that dog bite victims do not need to prove that the owner was negligent or that the dog had any previous aggressive behavior. Strict liability applies as long as the bite happened in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property. It is easier for injured victims to get compensation. 

California dog bite victims may also pursue a negligence claim. A victim may also pursue a negligence claim against a dog owner. If an owner failed to use reasonable care in controlling their dog and injuries occurred as a result, the owner could be liable for damages beyond just bites, for example, if the dog jumped on and knocked someone over. Additionally, a third party, such as a landlord or a property owner, may face liability if they knew about a dangerous dog and failed to take reasonable precautions.

Know the Deadline: Statute of Limitations

Victims of dog bites in Bakersfield and elsewhere in California typically have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit, California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. It is an important timeline to be aware of. Missing the deadline can result in your claim being permanently barred. Do not wait to get started with your claim: Speak to a Bakersfield, CA dog bite lawyer right away. 

Recovering the Maximum Compensation for a Dog Bite in Bakersfield

A dog attack can cause serious harm. It is imperative that dog bite victims in Bakersfield are able to secure the full and fair financial compensation that they need to pay medical bills and cover their damages. Unfortunately, many dog bite victims struggle to get access to the settlement that they deserve. Insurance companies are not on your side. They fight hard to pay out less. Our Bakersfield, CA dog bite lawyer can help. Damages that may be available in your dog bite claim include: 

• Emergency medical treatment; 
• Hospital bills; 
• Other medical costs; 
• Physical therapy; 
• Psychological counseling; 
• Lost wages; 
• Loss of future earnings; 
• Pain and suffering; 
• Emotional distress;
• Long-term scarring; and
• Wrongful death. 

Be Ready to Protect Your Rights: Common Dog Bite Defenses 

It is crucial that dog bite victims in Bakersfield are ready for any defenses that they could face. Although California enforces strict liability for dog bite injuries, it does not guarantee that a victim will automatically win their case. Here are notable legal defenses in dog bite cases: 

• Trespassing: Dog owners typically are not held strictly liable if the injured person was unlawfully on their property. If you were trespassing, you may struggle to bring a claim.
• Provocation: Another common defense in dog bite cases in Bakersfield is that the victim provoked the dog into biting. If evidence shows the victim’s behavior directly triggered the attack, the owner’s liability could be reduced or even dropped outright.
• Assumption of Risk: If the victim knowingly engaged with a potentially dangerous dog, such as in a training setting or a veterinary setting, their claim could be quite limited. In this context, dog owners can argue that the victim accepted the risks involved
• Comparative Negligence: California is a pure comparative negligence state. The law allows fault to be shared if the victim’s own negligence contributed to the incident. Ignoring warnings or acting recklessly around a dog could result in reduced compensation.

How Our Bakersfield, CA Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help

Dog bite injury claims are complicated. You do not have to take on the legal claims process. Unfortunately, insurance companies cannot be relied upon to look out for what is best for victims and their families. They want to pay out as little as possible in settlement negotiations. Michael Saeedian and Daniella Saeedian are strong advocates for justice. With a commitment to results, we provide proactive, personalized advocacy to victims and families. Along with other things, our Bakersfield, CA dog bite attorneys are prepared to: 

• Hear what you have to say and answer questions about your case; 
• Investigate the dog attack in Bakersfield, gathering relevant evidence; 
• Represent you in settlement negotiations with the insurance company; and 
• Develop a comprehensive strategy focused on helping you get the best outcome. 

Dog Bite Injuries in Bakersfield: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When Should I Speak to a Bakersfield Dog Bite Attorney?

The sooner, the better. Dog bite injury claims are complicated. A proactive approach to the personal injury claims process can make a big difference. You should consult with a top-rated Bakersfield, CA, dog bite lawyer before you provide any recorded statement to an insurance adjuster. 

Can I Still File a Dog Bite Claim If the Dog Had Never Shown Aggression Before?

Yes. California is a strict liability state, not a “one bite rule” state. You can still file a claim even if the dog had no prior history of aggression. Under California’s strict liability law, it does not matter whether the dog was previously considered dangerous or had never bitten anyone before. The dog owner is responsible. If you have any questions about strict liability in California, our Bakersfield dog bite lawyer is standing by, ready to help. 

What If a Dog Knocked Me Over and I Got Hurt—Can I Still Bring a Claim?

Yes—but these types of cases are different. In California, you may still have a personal injury claim even if the dog did not actually bite you. If a dog’s aggressive or uncontrolled behavior caused you to fall and suffer injuries, the owner may be liable through negligence claims. Strict liability covers only dog bites. Still, you can hold a negligent dog owner liable for any type of incident.

Does Homeowners Insurance Usually Cover Dog Bite Claims?

Yes, homeowners’ insurance policies in California typically cover liability for dog bite injuries. However, coverage can vary based on the breed of the dog and any exclusions written into the policy. Some insurance companies exclude certain breeds they consider “high-risk”—such as pit bulls or Rottweilers. If you have any questions about insurance coverage and dog bite claims, our Bakersfield, CA, dog bite lawyer is available to help. 

How Much is My Dog Bite Claim Worth?

It depends. Dog bite injury claims are always valued on a case-by-case basis in California. The value of the case will vary based on a number of case-driven factors, including the extent of your damages. Do not try an insurance company to fairly value your case. Our Bakersfield, CA dog bite lawyer can help you fight for the full and fair financial compensation you deserve. 

We Handle Dog Bite Claims in Bakersfield On Contingency 

Attacked by a dangerous dog in Bakersfield or elsewhere in Southern California? You can always afford a top attorney to help you navigate the claims process. At Saeedian Law Group, we represent dog bite victims on a contingency fee basis. Our firm does not charge upfront costs or hourly bills. We only get paid if you get paid. Your consultation is free and fully confidential. 

Contact Our Bakersfield, CA Dog Bite Lawyer for Immediate Help

At Saeedian Law Group, our Bakersfield dog bite attorney is a skilled, compassionate advocate for victims and their families. You don’t have to take on the insurance company alone. Attacked by a dangerous dog? You do not have to take on the claims process all alone. We are here to help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case review. We handle dog bite injury cases in Bakersfield, Kern County, and throughout all of Central California.