Ontario Dog Bite Lawyers
We’ll review what happened and tell you what options may be available.
Or, get LIVE help now — call our free 24-hour accident hotline at (888) 488-1391
Our Ontario Dog Bite Lawyers Are Committed To Clear And Honest Representation
Dog bites can impact both your physical and mental well-being. Our experienced Ontario dog bite lawyers can help you seek compensation for the disruption these incidents cause to your life and the financial stress they create.
Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation. We can clarify your rights and options under California law.
Our personal injury law firm serving Ontario focuses on building strong cases based on evidence and applicable statutes. Whether you need answers to some questions or want comprehensive legal representation, we’re here to guide you through the process.
What Ontario Dog Bite Lawyers Can Do
Pet owners are strictly liable for damages resulting from dog bites. These injuries can lead to emotional or physical complications. Our Ontario dog bite lawyers can offer legal representation and guidance if a dog has bitten you. We can assist you with the following:
- Answer Legal Questions — Filing a civil claim following an animal bite can be a complex process. We can provide clear, concise, and accurate information about your case. Our dog bite lawyers can address your concerns and clarify any doubts you may have regarding your claim.
- Investigate Your Case — A thorough investigation is crucial to support your claim. The process involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting industry experts as needed.
- Establish Liability — Our lawyers can help identify the parties that may be responsible for your dog bite accident. Local laws, such as leash laws, may also hold dog owners liable.
- Negotiate with Insurers — Communicating with insurance companies is crucial to pursuing a fair settlement. You must provide evidence, such as medical receipts, to support your claim.
- File Claims on Your Behalf — Legal processes can be confusing and time-consuming. Our lawyers can assist in filing your claim within the applicable legal deadlines. You can rely on us to handle the legal aspects of your case.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
Benefits Of Choosing Our Dog Bite Lawyers
You may be wondering whether you need legal help after a dog bite. To inform your decision, consider reviewing how our experienced Ontario dog bite lawyers can assist in handling these cases. Here are a few reasons to hire one of the attorneys from our Ontario injury law firm:
- Knowledge of Dog Bite Laws — Our lawyers can help you understand state and local regulations regarding dog bites and provide guidance on your specific situation. We’ll explain your rights under these laws. We can then guide you through the process of handling your dog bite claim.
- Court Representation — We can take your case to trial if we can’t settle outside of court. We aim to demonstrate to the judge or jury that your claims are valid.
- No Fees Unless We Win — Arash Law operates on a contingency fee basis. You will not be required to pay legal fees unless we successfully obtain a settlement or award for your case. There are no upfront legal fees under this payment structure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bites In Ontario
After getting bitten by a dog, it’s normal to seek free accident lawyer advice for your situation. To get you started, here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about dog bite incidents.
You can also contact our Ontario dog bite lawyers for more information and assistance. Our goal is to address your concerns and guide you through the process.
What Does It Cost To Hire An Injury Lawyer Near Me?
The cost of hiring lawyers for dog bites serving Ontario can vary depending on several factors. These considerations may include:
- The complexity of your case.
- The severity of your dog bite.
- The lawyer’s experience.
However, you won’t necessarily have to pay your attorney right away. Arash Law works on a contingency fee basis. One common question about this payment structure is, “Do lawyers only get paid if they win?” The short answer is yes. Our attorneys receive a percentage of a final settlement or award, but only if they obtain one. You will not have to pay legal fees up front.
How Much Can You Sue For A Dog Bite In Ontario?
There’s no set amount you can sue for. In California, dog bite settlements vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the injuries and damages.
Homeowners and renters insurance policies can typically cover legal expenses for dog bites. Many of them offer liability limits ranging from $100,000 to $300,000. The dog owner must cover damages that exceed these capped amounts.
You might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer after a dog bite in Ontario?” It’s not a requirement. However, hiring one can be an advantage. They can investigate your accident and assess your damages to estimate the potential value of your claim.
Is There Any Time Limit For Filing Dog Bite Claims?
Yes, California law gives you two years to file a dog bite claim. If you miss this deadline, you’ll generally lose the right to pursue compensation. Consulting with Ontario dog bite lawyers early on can help you avoid this outcome. They can also tell you if an exception applies to your case:
- If the victim is a minor, their parents or legal guardians can file a claim on their behalf. Otherwise, they can do so on their own after turning 18. The statute of limitations will only begin when they come of age.
- It is impossible to serve a lawsuit notice on time when a dog owner is temporarily out of state. In this case, the statute of limitations may be extended until the dog owner returns to the state.
How Long Does A Dog Bite Lawsuit Take In Ontario?
A dog bite lawsuit typically takes a few months to a couple of years to resolve. However, there is no set timeline. Several factors can impact the duration of a dog bite lawsuit in Ontario, including:
- The severity of your injury.
- The complexity of your case.
- The parties’ willingness to settle.
If you are wondering how long your dog bite case might take, speak with Ontario dog bite lawyers. They can provide a timeline estimate based on the specifics of your situation.
What Are Common Dog Bite Scenarios Encountered In Ontario?
Dogs may bite when they perceive a threat, defend their territory, or lack proper socialization and training. It is also possible for dogs to bite during play or when startled. By understanding these common dog bite scenarios, it is possible to prevent such incidents from occurring.
- Loss of Owner Control — Despite having their dog on a leash, owners may lose control of it. Their pet might end up biting another person.
- Unleashed Dogs — Uncontrolled dogs in public places could run down and bite passersby. Some factors that contribute to this behavior may include fear, a lack of socialization, or a sense of being threatened by unfamiliar faces.
- A Lack of Barriers — Dogs kept off leash at home may escape due to a lack of fencing or other protective barriers. They may end up biting others.
- Territorial Dogs — Dogs may become aggressive when they perceive a threat to their space, such as a guest or postal worker entering their yard or home. In most cases, these incidents occur because the animals assume these individuals are intruders.
- Dogs Protecting Their Puppies — Dogs that have recently given birth may display aggressive behavior to protect their puppies. Such behavior often stems from a maternal instinct to protect its young.
- Unsupervised Children — Children might make sudden movements or loud sounds. They could also try to pet an unfamiliar dog or put their faces near its snout. Dogs may feel threatened in these scenarios and bite them.
The cause of your dog bite accident can impact the claims process. For instance, a workplace injury lawyer may tell an injured delivery driver that they can seek benefits from their employer’s insurer. However, they may have to file a civil claim if they’re an independent contractor. Our Ontario dog bite lawyers can develop a legal strategy for pursuing compensation that takes this factor into account.
What Are The Most Common Dog Breeds When It Comes To Fatalities?
When provoked, any dog can bite. However, larger dog breeds are more likely to cause severe bites. These breeds are often involved in incidents due to their size, strength, and potential for aggression. However, it’s critical to note that various factors influence a dog’s behavior, including training, socialization, and the environment. The following breeds are commonly involved in dog bite cases:
- Pit Bull
- Rottweiler
- German Shepherd
- Doberman
State laws regarding dog bites apply equally across cases, regardless of the breed involved. However, the severity of a bite can ultimately impact the settlement amount you can seek. Ontario dog bite lawyers can estimate your claim’s potential value accordingly and help you seek fair compensation for your losses.
Dog Bite?
California’s Strict Liability Law For Dog Bites
State statutes hold pet owners strictly liable for dog bites. This principle applies even if their dogs have never bitten anyone before or shown signs of aggression in the past. In other words, ownership determines liability. The dog’s past behavior is irrelevant.
In California, a dog bite victim must demonstrate the following to pursue compensation:
- The at-fault party owns the dog.
- The injured victim was on public property or lawfully on private property when they were bitten.
- The dog actually bit the victim.
- The victim sustained injuries from the bite.
However, California’s strict liability law has exceptions:
- Trespassing — If someone is trespassing or engaging in illegal activity, strict liability may not apply. In these cases, the dog owner may argue that the injured victim’s presence on the property was unauthorized.
- Provocation — The dog owner may not be liable if the injured victim provoked the dog. Among these actions are teasing and physically injuring the dog.
Accident victims find it easier to file claims under California’s strict liability law, but knowing the exceptions is essential. Our Ontario dog bite lawyers will consider them when assessing whether your claim is valid.
Compensation For A Dog Bite Claim In Ontario
A dog bite survivor from Ontario may seek damages through a civil claim. Their losses can vary depending on the extent of the injury, the quality of evidence supporting the claim, and the amount of insurance coverage available to compensate for the losses.
Dog bite claims can include the following damages:
- Medical Costs — These cover healthcare expenses related to your dog bite. Examples include post-bite hospitalization, future physician visits, cosmetic surgery, physical therapy, pain medications, chiropractic treatment, and mental health care.
- Lost Earnings — You might need to take time off work to heal after a dog bites you. If so, you can seek damages, such as lost wages, due to missed workdays. You could also pursue reduced earning capacity if the injury results in long-term disability. The time you lose due to doctor appointments can be estimated and factored into your claim.
- Pain & Suffering — These damages refer to the physical and emotional distress you experienced as a result of your dog bite. They may consist of compensation for the pain endured during recovery, scarring, disfigurement, and the bite’s psychological impact, such as anxiety or fear of dogs.
The compensation you may pursue can also depend on the circumstances of your accident and the dog owner’s liability. You can consult Ontario dog bite lawyers to understand your rights and options.
Injuries From Dog Bite Incidents
Dog bites can cause serious physical harm. In severe cases, they may lead to permanent scarring or nerve damage. Beyond physical injuries, injured victims may start fearing dogs. This incident can have a significant impact on their daily lives. It can be beneficial to speak with our Ontario dog bite lawyers if you suffer injuries due to a dog bite. We can review cases involving:
- Fractured Bones — A dog bite can result in fractures or breaks, especially in the hands, arms, or legs. They can occur when someone tries to defend themselves against an attack.
- Nerve Damage — When a dog bite causes a deep tissue injury, nerve damage can occur. That can lead to a loss of sensation or impaired function in the affected area.
- Lacerations — Lacerations are deep cuts or tears in the skin caused by a dog’s teeth. These injuries can be quite severe and often require stitches or surgery to repair.
- Puncture Wounds — Puncture wounds occur when a dog’s teeth penetrate the skin, creating small, deep holes. These wounds can be dangerous: bacteria from the dog’s mouth may enter the bloodstream.
- Abrasions or Scrapes — Dog teeth or claws scraping against the skin can cause superficial skin injuries. They can still cause infection and require cleaning and dressing, even though they are less severe.
- Bruises & Contusions — A dog bite to the skin can cause bruises and contusions. These injuries occur when blood vessels beneath the skin break, causing discoloration, swelling, and pain. While they are often less severe than other injuries, they can still require medical attention.
The severity of dog bite injuries varies depending on the dog’s size, breed, and aggressiveness, as well as the age and health of the person bitten. Take all dog bites seriously. Anyone who gets bitten should see a doctor immediately to prevent potential problems and infections.
How Dog Bites Are Categorized
Healthcare professionals often use the Dunbar Bite Scale to categorize dog bites according to their severity. Understanding these categories can help you assess the risk and determine the appropriate medical and legal responses.
- Level 1 — The dog exhibits aggressive behavior. However, its teeth don’t make contact with the skin.
- Level 2 — Teeth-to-skin contact without punctures.
- Level 3 — One to four shallow punctures, none deeper than half the length of the dog’s canine teeth.
- Level 4 — The bite causes one to four deep punctures, at least one deeper than half the length of the canine teeth.
- Level 5 — The victim sustains two or more Level 4 bites from one dog attack or at least one Level 4 bite from several attacks.
- Level 6 — Bites that result in fatalities.
There are different implications for the injured victim at each level. To understand your rights and options after an accident, consult our Ontario dog bite lawyers.
Steps To Take After A Dog Bite
A dog bite injury can have serious consequences. Acting immediately can help ensure your well-being. It could even support a future compensation claim. Here are some steps you can take:
- Seek Medical Attention — Visiting a doctor as soon as possible after a dog bite is crucial, even if the wound appears minor. Treatment can mitigate the risk of viral infections, such as rabies. Doctors can also document and keep track of your injuries. This evidence is vital if you plan to file a personal injury lawsuit.
- Report the Incident — Contact Ontario police and animal control via 911 right after the incident. They can draft official accident reports for record-keeping and investigative purposes. You can use these documents to support your claim.
- Gather Evidence — Take photographs of your wounds before they heal. Gather witness statements from those present during the bite. Finally, note down any relevant information about the owner and the dog.
- Contact Ontario Dog Bite Lawyers — Consult an attorney with experience in personal injury law and dog bite cases. They can guide you through any legal proceedings that might follow.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
California Dog Bite Statistics And U.S. Dog Bite Fatalities
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, approximately 90 million dogs live in U.S. households. Roughly 4.5 million people, most of them children, are bitten by dogs every year. Many bites cause injuries that require more complex interventions, such as hospitalization and surgical treatments.
Federal data also notes that there are an estimated 30 to 50 fatalities from dog bites each year. The resulting losses endured by surviving loved ones can be substantial. Our Ontario dog bite lawyers offer compassionate and experienced legal representation to help you pursue fair compensation.
Contact Our Ontario Dog Bite Lawyers Now!
Arash Law has handled dog bites and other animal cases for clients across California. We are committed to helping you pursue compensation for your injuries. Our Ontario dog bite lawyers have decades of combined experience and can advocate for your rights. Let us help you navigate this complicated legal process.
Our personal injury lawyers handle a wide range of injury cases. Aside from car accidents, our attorneys can also help you navigate more complex cases involving trucks, DUI crashes, and rideshare vehicles from companies like Uber and Lyft. If you or a loved one gets injured due to someone else’s carelessness, call (888) 488-1391. You can also complete our “Do I Have A Case?” form to discuss your case.
If your injuries prevent you from meeting us in person, we can arrange to visit you anywhere in California, such as at your home or in the hospital. Our goal is to help you pursue compensation for your losses.
We offer our services to Bakersfield, Fresno, Visalia, Redding, Modesto, Stockton, Palm Springs, Eureka, Santa Barbara, Santa Maria, San Luis Obispo, Oakland, San Jose, Monterey, Salinas, Vista, Carlsbad, Apple Valley, Victorville, and Oceanside. We also assist injured victims in nearby areas, including Los Angeles, Riverside, Orange County, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Diego.
