Fresno 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.
From Consultation To Compensation, Our Fresno Dog Bite Lawyers Are Here For You.
Our Fresno dog bite lawyers here at Arash Law know that injuries from a bite go beyond physical pain. They can cause overwhelming stress, fear, and financial strain. Whether the incident happened near Woodward Park, while walking in the Tower District, or your neighborhood, you deserve answers and support.
Our dog bite attorneys in Fresno have assisted families across the Central Valley recover from traumatic injuries, and we can help you, too. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our attorneys by calling (888) 488-1391.
Why Hiring Fresno Dog Bite Lawyers Near Me Matters
Taking legal action after suffering a dog bite can protect you financially and help prevent further harm. Filing a claim does not mean you’re punishing someone for their negligence. It’s about getting justice for your injuries. If you’re thinking of hiring someone to represent you, consider hiring local Fresno dog bite lawyers.
Local attorneys have a good understanding of applicable laws in Fresno pertaining to dog bites. They know how the legal process works and how local courts operate. They can handle every aspect of your case, including the following:
- Case Assessment — Our lawyers will evaluate your case, identify key legal issues, and develop a strategy tailored to your specific situation.
- Evidence Collection — We will gather evidence and analyze its relevance to your case to prove negligence. Furthermore, we will interview witnesses, consult industry professionals, and assess your claim.
- Legal Correspondence — They can file your claim on time, take over communication, and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
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
Benefits Of Hiring Our Attorneys For Your Dog Bite Claim
Getting bitten by a dog can be a traumatic, life-changing experience. It often leads to serious injuries, emotional distress, and costly medical bills. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite, you may be entitled to compensation, and having the right legal team makes a difference in how your claim is handled.
Our attorneys provide clients with dedicated support every step of the way. Here are the benefits of working with our Fresno dog bite lawyers:
- Protecting Your Legal Rights — Our attorneys know what’s at stake for you. We shield you from unfair offers and settlements from insurance companies.
- Putting Your Best Interests First — We advocate for your needs and interests at every stage of the legal process. This includes compensation for your medical bills, missed work, and other losses due to the bite.
- Full-Service Representation — Our legal team handles every aspect of your case. We want you to focus on healing while we take care of the rest.
- Accessible Legal Services — At Arash Law, we have a “no win, no fee” policy. We don’t ask for lawyer fees upfront. Instead, we only get paid if we win your claim. Note: Clients may still need to shoulder some costs regardless of the case’s outcome. Our attorneys are happy to discuss these charges with you to set your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Injury Cases
If you or a family member suffered a dog bite, you may be wondering whether you have a valid claim, among other questions. We want to give you clarity during this difficult time. So, we compiled some of the most common questions our attorneys receive from injured victims.
Do you have other concerns in mind? Our knowledgeable staff is available at (888) 488-1391 to answer any questions you may have.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire Fresno Dog Bite Lawyers?
Our dog bite attorneys in Fresno work on a contingency fee basis. Instead of charging clients upfront, we only get paid if we win your case. This way, anyone has the opportunity to exercise their right to compensation regardless of their financial situation.
Lawyers usually deduct a percentage, typically between 33% and 40%, from the final settlement or verdict. The rate depends on several factors that our attorneys can discuss with you over a free consultation call. Set a schedule by filling out our contact form.
How Bad Does My Dog Bite Have To Be To Have A Case?
Dog bites can vary in severity, but even seemingly minor injuries can have serious legal and medical consequences. Veterinarian Dr. Ian Dunbar developed a scale to assess the level of harm. This six-level system classifies dog bites based on the damage inflicted:
- Level 1 — A dog behaves “obnoxiously or aggressively” toward another person or animal without actually making skin contact with its teeth.
- Level 2 — The dog’s teeth make skin contact but do not puncture it. It is possible, however, to still see nicks or slight bleeding.
- Level 3 — A single bite results in one to four punctures, with no puncture deeper than half of the dog’s canine teeth. In addition, lacerations may occur due to the movement of the dog or the owner.
- Level 4 — The bite results in one to four punctures, with at least one puncture deeper than half of the dog’s canine teeth. It is also common for level four bites to result in deep bruising.
- Level 5 — The dog bites the victim more than twice, resulting in at least two level 4 bites or multiple attacks involving at least one level 4 bite.
- Level 6 — The bite results in the death of the victim.
While this scale helps assess bite severity, California law doesn’t require a bite to be “severe” for you to have a case. Even a level 2 bite can lead to infections, permanent scarring, or emotional trauma. Whether you have puncture wounds, bruises, or lasting trauma, you have the right to seek compensation. Reach out to our Fresno dog bite lawyers to understand your options and protect your rights.
Can My Dog Bite Lawyer Negotiate A Settlement Without Going To Court?
Most dog bite cases settle out of court. The process usually involves negotiations with the dog owner’s insurance company. By presenting strong evidence and negotiating effectively, the lawyer helps pursue fair compensation for the victim without the need for a trial. However, prior outcomes do not guarantee a similar result. Results may vary depending on the facts of each case.
If you’re thinking, “I need a personal injury lawyer for my dog bite claim,” you’re in the right place. Allow our dog bite attorneys in Fresno to advocate for you while you focus on your recovery. Call our hotline today at (888) 488-1391 and consult with us for free!
How Long After A Dog Bite Can You Sue In Fresno?
If you intend to file a lawsuit, you need to start gathering evidence right away. In California, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the bite. If you fail to file within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation altogether. This applies to Fresno dog bite cases.
Additionally, under the law, all dog bites involving a person must be reported to the local animal control agency or health department, no matter how minor the injury or whether the dog has a previous history of aggression. This reporting requirement is crucial for safeguarding public health by enabling authorities to investigate potential rabies exposure, verify vaccination records, and ensure the dog is properly licensed.
Filing a report not only protects others but also connects the incident to the injury. The report and ensuing investigation provide important evidence that can support your case. Failure to report the bite could weaken your claim, delay your medical treatment, or put the public at risk.
Dog Bite?
How Our Attorneys Prove Liability In Dog Bite Cases
Dog bites in California generally fall under strict liability laws. This means that the victim does not need to prove the owner’s negligence. So, in Fresno, owners are automatically liable for injuries their dogs cause, even if the dog has never shown aggression before.
To hold a dog owner legally responsible for a bite, our Fresno personal injury attorneys must establish the following:
- The defendant owns or was in charge of the dog.
- The incident occurred in a public place or while the victim was legally on private property.
- The dog bite injured the victim.
- The incident was the substantial factor that contributed to the victim’s injuries.
While dog owners are typically held responsible for dog bites, some exceptions exist. For example, an owner may not be liable if the victim was trespassing or knowingly assumed the risk of being bitten (such as a veterinarian working with aggressive dogs). In some cases, if the dog was provoked to attack or was protecting its owner, home, or young pups, liability may also be limited.
It’s worth noting that insurers might use these exemptions as loopholes to minimize your claim. Don’t let the other side shift the blame. Speak with dog bite lawyers in Fresno today and take the first step toward securing the justice you deserve.
Other Potentially Liable Parties In Dog Bite Cases
Identifying all liable parties is key to securing full financial recovery. Our Fresno dog bite lawyers can also explore potential liable third parties for your claim. Depending on the circumstances, other individuals or entities may also share liability for your injuries. Here are some of them:
- Landlords or Property Owners — A landlord may be held liable if they knew a tenant’s dog was dangerous and failed to take reasonable steps, like enforcing leash rules or repairing broken fences.
- Dog Keeper or Caretaker — Individuals temporarily responsible for the dog, like pet sitters, dog walkers, or kennel staff, can be liable if their negligence (e.g., failing to leash or control the dog) directly leads to the bite.
- Animal Shelters or Adoption Agencies — These entities could share fault if they knowingly placed a dangerous dog into a home without warning the adopters about past aggression or behavioral issues.
- Parents or Guardians of Underage Dog Owners — If a minor owns the dog, their parents or legal guardians may be liable for damages, especially if they failed to supervise it or prevent unsafe behavior.
Compensation Available For Dog Bite Victims In Fresno
In the aftermath of a dog bite, victims often experience financial hardships due to expensive treatments and missed work opportunities. Our Fresno dog bite attorneys fight to recover compensation for both your immediate costs and the long-term impact on your life.
Our experienced Fresno dog bite attorneys can help you build an evidence-backed claim that seeks compensation for these two primary types of damages:
Economic Damages — These damages are out-of-pocket expenses that dog bite victims suffer as a direct result of their injuries. They include emergency treatment and hospitalization, doctor visits and diagnostic tests, medications and wound care, reconstructive or cosmetic surgery, and future medical care for long-term injuries.
If your injuries require ongoing treatment, such as specialized therapy, mobility aids, or future medical procedures, we factor that in, too. Furthermore, if your injuries keep you from working or limit your earning capacity, we will pursue full compensation for lost wages and income.
- Non-Economic Damages — There are intangible damages associated with dog bites, including emotional, psychological, and social effects that are often not covered by receipts. Pain & suffering include:
- Physical pain and discomfort.
- Emotional distress and mental anguish.
- Psychological trauma from the incident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life due to limitations or disfigurement.
Common Types Of Dog Bite Injuries
The effects of dog bites go beyond pain. They can be physically damaging, emotionally traumatic, and life-altering. In spite of the absence of visible scars, the emotional and mental toll of the bite can last for years. The types of injuries dog bite victims suffer are one of the factors that determine how the owner should compensate them. Here are some of the most common dog bite injuries:
- Lacerations — Being bitten by a dog often results in lacerations. Deep, jagged, and painful tears in the skin need immediate medical attention.
- Puncture Wounds — A dog’s sharp teeth can cause deep wounds. Puncture wounds may appear to be minor on the surface, but they are prone to infection since they reach deep tissue. They may require ongoing wound care or surgery to treat delayed healing, abscesses, or hidden muscle damage.
- Infections — Failure to thoroughly clean a wound can lead to serious diseases caused by bacteria from the dog’s mouth. There is a possibility of victims contracting cellulitis, sepsis, tetanus, and, in rare cases, even rabies. Some infections can become life-threatening if not treated.
- Nerve Damage — A bite can damage the nerves, leading to chronic pain, numbness, or even paralysis. Sometimes, nerve damage never fully heals. It can affect your quality of life in the long run by limiting your ability to perform everyday tasks. It can also cause loss of sensation and reduce mobility.
- Scarring & Disfigurement — Scarring on the face, neck, or hands can affect your physical appearance and mental health. The long-term effects include anxiety, social withdrawal, and low self-esteem.
You may be entitled to compensation if a dog has bitten you or your loved one. Contact our dog bite lawyers in Fresno today for a free consultation at (888) 488-1391.
largest animal attack settlement in 2020 for California; client suffered Traumatic Brain Injury– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
What Should I Do After A Dog Bite In Fresno
You can make a significant difference in your recovery and legal options after a dog bite by taking the right steps immediately afterward. Our Fresno accident lawyers recommend the following three actions:
- Obtain Medical Treatment Immediately — It’s crucial to follow up with a medical provider, even if emergency responders from 911 or the ER staff have already treated you. A dog bite can result in infections that develop quickly, and nerve damage or internal injuries may not be evident right away. Doing so can help prevent complications. It can also provide evidence to support your injury claim by creating official medical records.
- Preserve Evidence — You should collect and safely store anything related to the bite, such as photos of your injuries, the dog, the location where the accident occurred, medical bills, witness contact information, and damaged clothing. Clear documentation helps strengthen their claim.
- Call A Dog Bite Lawyer Right Away — Our Fresno dog bite lawyers can investigate the incident. They can identify all responsible parties and seek the compensation you deserve according to the law.
Dog Bite Statistics
In the United States, dog bites have become a serious and growing public safety concern. Every year, approximately 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs in the U.S., according to the World Health Organization. Twenty percent of patients require medical attention for injuries or infections, with most of them being children.
An analysis of homeowners’ insurance claims data by the Insurance Information Institute found that the number of dog bite claims increased from 19,062 in 2023 to 22,658 in 2024. This figure represents an 18.9% increase, which reflects rising medical costs, as well as the emotional and psychological costs associated with dog bite injuries.
If a dog in Fresno bites you or your child, let our experienced dog bite attorneys in Fresno protect your rights. Let’s go over your legal options when you call (888) 488-1391. Our initial consultations are free of charge and do not establish an attorney-client relationship.
Consult With The Dog Bite Lawyers In Fresno
If you or a loved one suffered injuries due to a dog bite anywhere in Fresno, including Laton, Kerman, Fowler, Selma, Reedley, Edmiston, Sanger, or Raisin City, don’t wait to secure the evidence you need. A dog bite can cause serious physical, emotional, and financial harm, and you deserve legal protection and support right away.
Our attorneys will work to hold negligent dog owners accountable and help victims recover the compensation they deserve. Our experienced Fresno dog bite lawyers will guide you through every step of the legal process, offering necessary support and fighting for your rights.
Contact us today at (888) 488-1391 for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation, or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form. We also handle other types of personal injury claims, including premises liability cases, pedestrian accidents, motorcycle collisions, hit-and-run cases, DUI crashes, and accidents involving semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, and big rigs.
