Alhambra Dog Bite Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Determined Alhambra Dog Bite Lawyers who Will
Get You Compensated For Your Injuries
No matter how small a dog bite might seem, it has potentially serious consequences. If a dog attacks you and causes bodily harm, seek medical attention immediately. Once you’ve received care, consult our Alhambra dog bite lawyers immediately. We have successfully represented victims of dog bites, so we are confident about helping you seek compensation for your damages. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 today to schedule a free initial consultation.
Alhambra is a bustling city in the western San Gabriel Valley in Los Angeles County. It offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living, with a diverse community and vibrant neighborhoods. Residents enjoy diverse culinary experiences and amenities, including parks, entertainment centers, and scenic golf courses. The charming downtown streets are also iconic for their tree-lined avenues.
Beyond being a fantastic destination for visitors, Alhambra is known as a paradise for pets, especially dogs. The city boasts a variety of pet-friendly hotels, apartments, dining spots, and parks. The city government works with the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) for pet adoptions, license renewals, stray sheltering, and microchip registrations. Authorities ensure that pets and their owners have everything they need for a joyful and secure life together.
While it’s admirable to see a dog-friendly city like Alhambra, it’s crucial to balance these initiatives with measures that promote responsible pet ownership and minimize the risk of incidents.
Regrettably, these incidents can leave you struggling physically, emotionally, and financially. If you get a dog bite injury, reach out to our attorneys in Alhambra. We will fight for the remuneration you deserve. Call us now, and let us be your allies in this challenging time.
Why Should You Hire An Alhambra Dog Bite Lawyer?
Regardless of their severity, dog bite injuries can quickly become life-altering. Even a small puncture wound that draws blood can be fatal if the victim contracts rabies. Additionally, the psychological and physical trauma resulting from these incidents can last a lifetime. Our Alhambra dog bite lawyers can provide the legal support you need to navigate this difficult situation.
Our team of personal injury attorneys fully understands that dealing with the aftermath of dog attacks can be overwhelming. The burden of mounting medical bills, emotional distress, lost earnings, and other challenges can quickly add up. Nevertheless, you don’t have to go through this difficult time alone. Our dog bite attorneys are ready to provide compassionate support tailored to your needs.
Additionally, our Alhambra injury law firm is renowned for having an exceptional record of successfully handling dog bite cases. We combine our dedication with professional expertise. With us, you’re not just hiring attorneys but gaining well-versed allies ready to stand by your side.
Our Alhambra personal injury lawyers are committed to providing you with the best possible representation. We will leverage our resources to gather evidence, strengthen your claim, and effectively counter the defendants’ attempts to deny their liability.
Choosing our Alhambra attorneys for your dog bite case can give you peace of mind, knowing you have the right team on your side to pursue the settlement you deserve. Reach out to us now, and let’s work together to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Largest animal attack settlement in 2020 for California; client suffered Traumatic Brain Injury– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
How Can Our Dog Bite Attorneys Help You?
Navigating dog bite cases may be daunting, but you can always rely on our Alhambra dog bite attorneys for assistance. We will manage all the legal tasks to help alleviate your burden. We will not back off until we secure what you deserve. You can rest assured that our lawyers will be the best partners for your pursuit of justice.
Part of our commitment is to help you with the following:
- Conduct Thorough Investigation — Our personal injury lawyers will meticulously evaluate the incident. The dog’s owner might try to blame you by saying the dog was scared or provoked. However, we will be just as assertive in protecting your rights. We will collect all the necessary evidence to give the at-fault dog owner no chance to question your claim. These include surveillance footage stored in home or business security systems and witness testimonies.
- Prove Liability — Our legal team is adept at determining the liability of the accountable parties. California’s strict liability laws play a crucial role in dog bite cases. The state holds dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether it has a history of aggression or whether the owner was negligent. To further strengthen your case, we will demonstrate the defendants’ negligence. Even if they contend you contributed to your injuries, we will fight for your right to recover damages.
- Obtain Maximum Compensation — Our dog bite lawyers in Alhambra will fiercely represent you in negotiations with insurance companies. We will assert the highest compensation for your injuries and losses. If negotiations fall short, we are fully prepared to take your case to court and vigorously advocate for your rights and well-being.
What Is A Dog Bite?
In California, when a dog’s teeth contact a person’s body, whether by grabbing, biting, or clamping, it is considered a dog bite. The severity of dog bites can vary significantly. Dr. Ian Dunbar, a renowned veterinarian, developed a six-level scale to classify dog bite incidents. This scale is used by medical professionals, law enforcement, animal welfare officers, and behaviorists to assess the severity of attacks, determine if a dog poses a danger, and identify appropriate actions for owners and their pets. This classification system includes six levels:
- Level 1 — The dog exhibits “annoying or aggressive” behavior but does not bite.
- Level 2 — The dog bites with its teeth but does not break the skin. However, the victim may sustain small cuts and slight bleeding.
- Level 3 — One dog bite results in one to four puncture wounds and breaks the skin no deeper than half the length of the dog’s canine teeth.
- Level 4 — One dog bite results in one to four punctures, breaking the skin deeper than half the length of the dog’s canine teeth. Bruises may also surround the wound.
- Level 5 — The dog bites or attacks the victim several times, causing one or more wounds with varying degrees of severity. Each instance involves a Level 4 case.
- Level 6 — The dog attack leads to the death of a victim.
The severity level helps determine the appropriate legal response and the compensation you deserve. Whether you’ve suffered a minor bite or a severe attack, our Alhambra dog bite lawyers have the expertise to represent your case. We will work tirelessly to ensure that the full extent of your injuries is documented and that you receive fair compensation.
Alhambra Laws On Dog Bites
Unlike other states, California does not have a one-bite rule, which excuses an owner from the first bite or injury caused by their dogs. Instead, the California Civil Code implements the strict liability rule. This legal principle holds owners accountable for any bite injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether it has a history of attacking people. Dog bites are unpredictable, but the owner’s knowledge of their pet’s behavior or potential danger is irrelevant.
However, this rule does not apply if a dog attacks a person but does not bite. If a dog causes injury through means other than biting, it may be necessary to demonstrate the owner’s negligence. Moreover, the owner can only be liable in a dog bite incident in a public area or if the victim was lawfully present on private property. In other words, trespassing on a property will not make you eligible to seek compensation under the strict liability statute. It also exempts cases where a police or military dog bites while on duty or in self-defense.
Regulations For Dog Ownership
In California, specific regulations are in place to ensure the safety of others from potentially dangerous dogs. According to the California Food and Agricultural Code (FAC), owners must keep their pets under control on their property. Proper restraints include using a leash, having a gated yard, or keeping the dog indoors.
To better understand the laws applicable to dog bites, speak with our Alhambra attorneys. We will explain the rules in the simplest terms and help you use them to your advantage.
Filing a dog bite claim is not as simple as it seems. The owner may argue that you provoked the animal, causing it to attack. Let our dog bite lawyers in Alhambra take on your case to avoid the stress of dealing with these issues. We will thoroughly investigate how the incident occurred and provide solid evidence to establish the at-fault party’s negligence.
Why Do Dogs Bite?
Even typically, gentle dogs may bite under certain circumstances. While many dogs express their discomfort through barking, snapping, or growling, various factors can escalate their behavior to the point of biting.
Many of the dog bite cases our Alhambra lawyers have handled happened because of the following reasons:
- Fear & Nervousness — Pets may display violent behavior when feeling anxious and fearful. When they fear people, their surroundings, or even the sounds they hear, they might bite or attack the person next to them as a defense mechanism.
- Startle Reflex — If you unexpectedly wake a dog from a deep sleep, it might instinctively nip at the nearest thing or person. These incidents are common among elderly dogs due to weakened senses, such as hearing loss, or painful conditions like arthritis. These factors can make them more alert and defensive, increasing the likelihood of a startled reaction.
- Protective Behavior — Dogs may exhibit protective behavior when they believe someone is trying to take away their possessions, such as food or toys. They also act the same when perceiving threats to their owner or the property they are guarding.
- Feeling Stress And Pain — Dogs experiencing stress or pain are more likely to bite and act out. These behaviors can be triggered by factors such as being chained, bored, agitated, or physically injured. Additionally, dogs often pick up on their owners’ emotions, so being around a worried or anxious family member can make them more reactive. Their innate ability to sense when something is wrong can lead to heightened stress and defensive behavior.
Dog Bite?
Serious Consequences Of Dog Bites
In many cases, dog bites have drastic repercussions for victims. These can range from bodily harm to social effects, and their severity depends on the animal’s strength and aggressiveness. Our Alhambra dog bite attorneys have helped victims receive compensation for the following:
Dog Bite Injuries
Serious dog bites significantly differ from playful nibbles and accidental contact with a dog, which can only result in minor bruises. These incidents are on a higher level, as they cause substantial trauma, affecting the victims’ limbs, such as the arms, legs, feet, heads, and necks.
Common injuries sustained in dog bites include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Back injuries
- Nerve damage
- Deep cuts
- Puncture wounds
- Scrapes and scratches
- Severe bruising
- Amputations
- Tearing
- Fractures
- Dislocations
- Wrongful deaths
It’s important to see a doctor immediately to assess your condition and determine the necessary treatment. Dog bites can be dangerous, requiring tests, medication, and other medical care. Contact our Alhambra dog bite lawyers to get started on getting fair reparation for your injuries.
Dog Bite Infections
The skin serves as a protective barrier against germs and other microbes. However, certain bacteria and viruses from dogs can cause infections if they enter our body through a bite or if saliva comes into contact with open wounds. They can even lead to complications, posing a significant risk to children, senior citizens, and individuals with weak immune systems.
Examples of infections resulting from dog bites are:
Rabies
Rabies is a rare but fatal viral disease that affects the brain and nervous system. It is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, typically through a bite. If you suspect a dog bite has exposed you to rabies, seek medical attention immediately. A rabies vaccine can effectively prevent the disease if administered within 72 hours of exposure. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal.
Tetanus
Tetanus is a serious medical condition affecting the nervous system. It is caused by bacteria found in soil, dust, and animal waste, including dog feces. Infected individuals usually experience muscle spasms, especially in the jaw and neck, which is why this disease is also called lockjaw. Unfortunately, there is no cure for tetanus. Therefore, individuals bitten by a dog are advised to receive a tetanus shot as a precautionary measure.
Capnocytophaga Infection
Capnocytophaga is a type of bacteria found in the mouths of many dogs and cats. While most people have no issues with Capnocytophaga, individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with cancer, diabetes, or HIV, are at a higher risk of developing a serious infection. In severe cases, this type of bacterial infection can lead to sepsis, heart attack, kidney failure, gangrene, and even amputations.
Pasteurella Infection
Pasteurella is a type of bacteria commonly carried by dogs and cats. While most people have no issues with this bacteria, a dog bite or scratch can introduce the bacteria into the body, leading to infection.
Pasteurella infections can cause a range of complications, including soft tissue and eye infections, cellulitis, necrotizing fasciitis (also known as “flesh-eating disease”), arthritis, and meningitis. These infections can be serious and require extensive medical care and specialized medications. The associated medical expenses can be significant.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) Infections
MRSA is a type of staph bacteria resistant to many common antibiotics. While MRSA infections can occur through various means, including contact with contaminated surfaces or other individuals, dog bites can also serve as a potential entry point for the bacteria.
People with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing severe MRSA infections. If left untreated, MRSA can spread throughout the body and lead to life-threatening complications, such as sepsis.
Contracting MRSA from a Dog Bite:
- Direct Contact — If a dog carrying MRSA bites you, the bacteria can be transferred directly into the wound.
- Contaminated Environment — Dogs can shed MRSA bacteria on their fur, bedding, or toys. If you come into contact with these contaminated items and then touch an open wound, you may be at risk of infection.
It’s important to seek medical attention promptly if you experience any signs of infection after a dog bite, including redness, swelling, pain, pus, or fever. Your doctor can assess your risk of MRSA and prescribe appropriate treatment.
Social & Emotional Impacts
A dog bite can leave more than just physical scars; it carries profound social and psychological repercussions. Imagine being afraid whenever you hear a bark or becoming anxious when you see a leash in someone’s hand. Your trauma may also surface in everyday situations, such as gatherings with friends and family who own dogs. This ordeal might also cause nightmares or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming, especially when facing legal challenges. Don’t bear this burden alone while the negligent dog owner goes unpunished. Take action and pursue a personal injury claim with the support of our dedicated Alhambra dog bite lawyers. We’ll help you seek reparation for all the ways the dog bite has affected your life, from covering medical expenses and lost wages to addressing the emotional and psychological impacts.
Who Is Responsible For A Dog Bite?
Dog bite cases often arise due to the negligence of several parties. Under the strict liability rule, dog owners are liable for any harm caused by their pets despite being unaware of their aggressiveness. However, there are also instances where other parties might be responsible for the victim’s injuries. These include the following:
- Landlords — Landlords are responsible for common areas. They might be liable if a dog bite occurs there and the landlord knows about the dog’s aggression.
- Property Owners — Sometimes, dog bites happen on rented properties. Property owners are liable if they knew or should have known the dog was dangerous and didn’t take action.
- Caretakers & Keepers — Dog bites can occur even when the pet is in the care of other individuals, such as dog walkers, pet sitters, or dog daycares. In these instances, the person supervising the dog’s activities can be held responsible for any damages resulting from a bite.
- Businesses — Businesses that allow dogs must ensure safety. If a dog bites a customer, the business might be liable.
Identifying the accountable parties is crucial in seeking compensation for your damages. However, this process can be difficult. Negligent individuals may attempt to deny their liability or argue that you provoked the dog, causing it to bite.
Work with the dog bite lawyers Alhambra residents rely on. We will craft compelling strategies to establish liability and strengthen your claim.
Establishing Negligence In A Dog Bite Case
In most dog bite cases, strict liability applies, meaning the dog owner is responsible regardless of whether the attack was a result of negligence or if the owner could have done something to prevent it.
However, if the incident involves an attack without a bite, the victim must prove negligence on the owner’s part. Negligence involves four elements:
- Duty Of Care — The dog owner had a duty to prevent harm.
- Breach Of Duty — The owner failed to fulfill that duty, often by violating a law or regulation. For example, in many jurisdictions, leash laws require dogs to be restrained in public areas. If a dog owner fails to comply with this law and their dog attacks someone, the owner has breached their duty of care.
- Causation — The owner’s negligence was the direct cause of the injury.
- Damages — The victim suffered various damages and losses from the unfortunate incident.
This concept also applies in other situations. For example, you got into a pedestrian accident while fleeing from a dog and ran into the path of a car whose driver was distracted and failed to stop for you. To hold the driver liable for the injuries you sustained in the accident, you must prove the four elements of negligence in a separate case.
To navigate this complex process effectively, let our dog bite attorneys in Alhambra manage your claim. We will assess the specifics of your case to determine whether strict liability laws apply.
Comparative Negligence In Dog Bite Accident Claims
In Alhambra and throughout California, dog bite victims need to understand how pure comparative negligence applies to their personal injury claims. This legal concept assesses the actions of all involved parties to determine their contribution to the incident. It does not exempt the victims from the evaluation. If the court finds them partially responsible, it will assign a percentage of liability, up to 99%. This finding will directly impact the recoverable compensation.
For instance, you provoke a dog with a stick and get bitten, causing you to incur $123,000 in damages. If the court declares you 40% at fault, your compensation will be reduced proportionally, leaving you with a maximum settlement of 60%, or $73,800.
While this rule aims to hold all negligent parties accountable, defendants may exploit it to shift a significant portion of the blame to the victims. Don’t let this happen to you; work with our Alhambra dog bite lawyers. We will thoroughly examine the incident to minimize the degree of fault assigned to you and maximize your compensation.
Damages Available To Dog Bite Victims
As a dog bite victim, pursuing a personal injury claim might help you recover compensation for your injuries and losses. Your settlement may cover economic damages, which are your calculable out-of-pocket expenses. You can also recover your non-economic damages, which are subjective and more difficult to quantify.
To fully assess your damages, consult our Alhambra dog bite lawyers. We will investigate the incident’s specifics and determine the extent of your losses, including the following:
- Medical bills
- Emergency room visits
- Reconstructive surgery
- Physical therapy
- Laboratory tests
- Prescriptions and medications
- Vaccinations
- Counseling
- Lost earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Affected quality of life
- Scarring and disfigurements
While nothing can fully compensate for the pain you’ve experienced, a settlement can help relieve your financial burdens. When you engage our Alhambra attorneys for dog bites, you can be confident that you have a better chance of receiving maximum compensation for your damages.
Steps To Take After A Dog Bite Incident In Alhambra
Ensure Your Safety
Remove yourself from any immediate danger by distancing yourself from the dog or moving to a safe location. If there’s still a risk of further dog attacks, call 911.
Gather Information
Collect details about the dog, such as its breed, size, sex, color, age, and vaccination record, or get a photo if possible. If you can’t obtain this information, try to remember any distinctive features. Get the owner’s name, contact details, and address, if possible. Any information will significantly contribute to the investigation.
Document The Scene
Preserve all necessary evidence, such as photos of your injuries and the responsible dog, the incident’s date, time, and location, medical records, and witness information.
Take Prompt Action
If you’re near your home, wash your scratches and wounds immediately with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. If the bite breaks the skin and causes bleeding, even slightly, go to the ER for prompt medical care. Remember that even minor bites can quickly lead to serious complications.
Report The Incident
All dog bite cases must be reported to the Veterinary Public Health and Rabies Control Program (VPH-RCP). Call them at (213-989-7060) or complete their online form.
Seek Legal Guidance From Arash Law
Our Alhambra dog bite lawyers will provide relentless support during this challenging time. We will help protect your rights and guide you through the process. Contact us today at (888) 488-1391 to have your case reviewed for free.
Personal Injury: An attack that took place when a homeless man used an unsecured baseball bat in the Walmart store to attack a husband and wife who were shopping nearby. The jury found that Walmart was 50 percent liable for the attack, and the amount of the judgment against the company exceeded $30,000,000.– BRIAN BEECHER
Dog Bite Accident Statistics
Dog bites remain a persistent issue in the U.S., with over four million people bitten each year. These incidents account for 1% of all emergency visits in the country, with disclosed injuries ranging from minor to severe and fatal cases. Around 800,000 victims require rabies-related medical treatment. Unfortunately, almost half of dog bite victims are children, prompting the importance of awareness and dog bite prevention guidelines.
Furthermore, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) revealed that dog attacks on its workers totaled over 5,800 cases in 2023. The count stayed consistent with the 2020 report, which also recorded more than 5,800 attacks. California had the highest number of incidents, with 727 attacks, up from 675 in 2022.
As dog bite cases continue to rise, our attorneys in Alhambra remain dedicated to helping victims. We are committed to providing legal assistance to individuals who have been bitten, supporting them in holding dog owners accountable, and securing the compensation they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dog Bite Accidents
Do I Need To Hire A Lawyer For A Dog Bite?
Yes, you should consider hiring a lawyer for a dog bite. Many victims overlook the legal implications of a dog bite, questioning the necessity of legal action. However, the expertise of a personal injury lawyer is crucial in these situations. Handling the aftermath of a dog bite isn’t just about medical recovery, it also involves navigating legal complexities to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
At Arash Law, one of California’s biggest personal injury law firms, our experienced legal team specializes in dog bite cases. We have secured over half a billion dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
We work on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t pay anything unless we successfully recover compensation for you. With our skilled Alhambra dog bite attorneys on your side, you enhance your chances of a favorable outcome, allowing you to focus on healing while we handle the legal details.
Can You Sue For A Minor Dog Bite?
In California, even a small dog bite can lead to a lawsuit. Under the state’s strict liability rule, dog owners are responsible for any bites on public or private property. Victims are entitled to compensation for bites that cause pain, suffering, and psychological distress.
To learn more about this matter, speak with our Alhambra lawyers specializing in dog bites. We will explain the legalities to you as clearly as possible, including your recoverable damages.
Are Dog Owners Liable If Their Dog Bites Or Attacks Someone?
- Inadequately securing a dog on the owner’s premises, resulting in the animal’s escape and subsequent attack on a passerby.
- Keeping an aggressive dog without warning individuals in the vicinity.
- A dog attacks acquaintances, neighbors, or guests within the owner’s residence.
- Unleashing a dog and allowing it to roam unrestrained in public spaces, such as parks and residential areas.
What Is The Deadline For Filing A Dog Bite Accident Claim?
According to California’s statute of limitations, victims must file personal injury claims within two years from the date of the dog bite. Although this is the general time frame, some circumstances might warrant an exception. For instance, if the involved party is a minor, the statute of limitations is paused or tolled until they reach the legal age.
California’s legal system strictly implements the applicable time limit. Failure to adhere to this might weaken your right to recover compensation. For this reason, you should work with our Alhambra dog bite lawyers. We will accomplish all the legwork for you, ensuring you meet every deadline the court sets.
Are Police Or Military Liable For Dog Attacks?
Generally, California’s dog bite laws do not apply to police and military dogs. If a dog bites you while it is on duty, its handlers are not responsible for any resulting costs. They can only be held accountable if they were negligent in managing the dog. The keeper may also be liable if the dog was off duty when it caused harm.
If a police or military dog attacks you, consult our dog bite attorneys in Alhambra. We will explore legal options to establish negligence in your case and make it possible to recover reparation for your injuries and losses.
Who Can File A Dog Bite Claim?
Everyone is entitled to pursue personal injury claims, including those arising from dog bites, regardless of their immigration status, race, age, gender, or other personal characteristics.
Victims who sustain bite injuries may file a claim against the dog owner. However, the applicable rules vary depending on the circumstances. For instance, if you are a lawful guest at someone’s property when a dog bites you, the strict liability rule will come into play. On the other hand, a different legal doctrine may cover claims pursued by trespassers.
Talk with our Alhambra dog bite lawyers to know more about your rights. We will review your case to determine whether you have legal grounds and extensively discuss what you’re entitled to.
Consult The Dog Bite Lawyers Alhambra Trusts
A dog bite injury can be a painful experience, taking a significant toll on the victim. However, you shouldn’t bear the burden alone. Arash Law is here to help you.
Our Alhambra dog bite lawyers understand that bite injuries have catastrophic consequences requiring immediate medical and legal attention. That’s why we are ready to provide unwavering support. We are committed to helping you recover from your struggles and obtain the highest compensation you deserve.
Contact us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation. You can also reach us online by completing our “Do I Have A Case?” form. Rest assured that our staff will get back to you as soon as possible.
In addition to dog bites, our Alhambra attorneys handle other personal injury cases, such as car accidents, Uber accidents, truck accidents, and slip-and-fall accidents. We also extend our legal services to nearby cities and locations, including San Gabriel, South Pasadena, San Marino, Monterey Park, Rosemead, Pasadena, Temple City, South El Monte, Montebello, East Los Angeles, El Monte, Arcadia, Sierra Madre, Altadena, and Commerce.
