How To Report A Dog Bite In Riverside County

There’s no doubt that a dog is a man’s best friend, but even our furry companions can pose dangers that no one anticipates. Dogs can react unexpectedly and bite, especially if they feel threatened or scared. In Riverside County, many dog bite cases occur due to the owners’ negligence in training their pets.

Imagine you’re enjoying the view at Sycamore Canyon Park when you unintentionally bump into someone walking with their unleashed dog when it suddenly attacks you. What if you’re at Pat Merritt Dog Park, letting your pet socialize, when someone else’s dog bites you out of nowhere? What would you do? The dangers exist everywhere, even in a dog-friendly county like Riverside. You should know what to do if this happens to you and how to report it to the proper authorities.

How Do I Report A Dog Bite In Riverside?

You can report the dog bite incident to the Riverside County Department of Animal Services in two ways:

Provide the specifics of the incident, such as the date and time, location, the body part that was bitten, and how the attack occurred. They also need information about the dog, the owner’s name, and their contact details. To help authorities investigate your case, briefly summarize the events leading to the bite and describe the animal.

This reporting system applies to all cities and neighborhoods within Riverside County, including Riverside, Moreno Valley, Corona, Murrieta, Temecula, Hemet, Indio, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Perris, Jurupa Valley, and Menifee.

In some cases, you might also have to report the incident to the local police department, especially if the dog is vicious or poses further threats. For emergencies, call 911 or the Riverside Police Department at (951) 787-7911.

Dog Bites Continue To Soar In Recent Years

The Department of Health Care Access and Information reports a concerning rise in emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and deaths resulting from dog bites. In 2022, California recorded 48,596 ER visits for dog bites, a staggering 70% increase from 2005. Hospitalizations have doubled since 2006, and fatalities have risen by 70% over a similar period.

Dog bite cases are serious, and minor bites should not be ignored. It’s crucial to immediately report all incidents to the appropriate agency to ensure public safety and prevent future occurrences.

Dog Attacks In Riverside

With a population of nearly 2.5 million and thousands of households owning at least one dog, Riverside County is no stranger to dog bites. Here are some notable dog bite incidents that happened in the county in recent years:

Do Dog Bites Need To Be Reported In Riverside?

All instances of dog bites in Riverside must be reported to the local health agency, regardless of the severity. You must file a report even if the dog that attacked you is yours. This requirement also applies to medical professionals and facilities that treat dog bite injuries.

One main reason for this requirement is to help the state and county control and prevent rabies. Reporting dog bites contributes to Riverside’s ongoing success in preventing rabies, preserving the county’s clean record for 2023.

Filing a report also has other advantages, including:

• Documentation — The official report can be evidence if you file a case against the dog owner or another responsible party.
• Risk Prevention — Reporting will prompt the authorities to investigate the dog and determine whether it poses a risk to public safety.

However, even with these benefits, many people skip this step or hesitate to file a report. Most are primarily concerned with what happens to the dog after they report the dog bite.

What Happens After A Dog Bite Is Reported?

After you report a dog bite, the local animal control service will investigate the incident based on the initial details you provided. The officers will visit the owner and confirm some information, including the dog’s vaccination history, attack history, and license status.

They will also use this opportunity to verify the dog’s health, checking for signs of illness or injury. Additionally, they will evaluate its living environment to ensure it is safe and humane. They will look for signs of neglect or abuse, which could contribute to aggressive behavior.

The results of their investigation will help them determine if the dog is a safety concern that needs further intervention.

Does A Dog Have To Be Quarantined After Biting Someone?

In most cases, local law enforcement will quarantine the dog that bites you for at least ten days. The animal can be kept at the owner’s home. In some cases, local authorities may require confinement in a designated facility. This quarantine period allows authorities to monitor the dog for signs of rabies and to keep the public safe.

Contact the agency handling your case for updates regarding the dog’s quarantine status. They should also be able to inform you if there are any significant findings, such as signs of rabies.

Will Dogs Be Put Down For Biting In Riverside?

Another reason many hesitate to report a dog bite is the fear that the dog will be euthanized. However, euthanasia is only considered in specific circumstances:

• The Dog Has Rabies — A dog showing signs of rabies will be put down without a hearing. Unfortunately, there is no cure for rabies, and infected animals will soon die after showing symptoms. Euthanasia is a more humane way to say goodbye to a man’s best friend and prevent the virus from spreading.
• The Dog Has Bitten At Least Two People In The Past — A court hearing will decide if the dog needs to be euthanized after two separate biting incidents. This happened to a five-year-old pit bull in the City of Riverside. The dog was euthanized after biting two animal control officers who were investigating a previous bite incident concerning the same animal.
• A Trained Attack Dog Seriously Bites A Person — Only one serious dog bite incident will trigger a court hearing for dogs trained to attack on command.

Dogs won’t be immediately euthanized after a single bite incident. However, if the dog is deemed dangerous based on the above criteria, various parties — including the district attorney, city attorney, animal control officer, a neighbor, or anyone — can initiate a hearing to have the dog put down. You can also submit a complaint to the local animal control agency if you believe the animal is dangerous to the public.

What If A Stray Dog Bit Me?

If a street dog bites you and you don’t have any details about it or its owner, you still need to follow the same process to file a report. You can simply provide information about what happened, where it occurred, and a description of the dog.

Reporting the dog bite allows local authorities to investigate and assess any potential danger to the community quickly. If they locate the dog, they can capture it and either return it to its owner or surrender it to a local animal shelter. This can help prevent further attacks and manage stray dog populations, a recent pressing concern in Riverside County.

Packs of aggressive stray dogs have been terrorizing and killing livestock, particularly in the unincorporated community of Anza in Riverside County. They also pose a threat to people, which is why it’s important to report cases of dog bites at all times, even if victims are not seriously harmed. Reporting allows authorities to prevent such scenarios and protect the community.

Steps To Take After Reporting The Dog Bite

After you report a dog bite, follow these important steps to protect your health and legal rights:

Seek Medical Attention

Seek medical care immediately, preferably within 24 hours. Dog bites can lead to various injuries and complications, including:

• Rabies — Rabies is a serious viral infection that is fatal if not treated promptly and once symptoms show.
• Puncture Wounds — These deep wounds can be infected if not treated properly.
• Lacerations — These are deep cuts or tears in the skin that are painful and may take time to heal.
• Fractures — A strong dog bite can break bones, which may lead to a temporary or permanent disability.
• Infection — Bacteria from the dog’s saliva can cause infections that can be fatal if not addressed accordingly.
• Nerve Damage — Dog bites can lead to loss of function in the affected area, potentially leading to paralysis.
• Anxiety & PTSD — The trauma from a dog attack can lead to long-term psychological effects.
• Scarring & Disfigurement — Dog bites can cause permanent scarring or disfigurement.

You will most likely receive a tetanus injection, especially if you haven’t had one within the last ten years. Then, you will be given rabies shots. Apart from standard care for dog bites, the specific treatment you’ll receive will depend on the extent of your injuries. For example, if you sustain broken bones from a strong bite, doctors might suggest surgery or amputation of the affected limb.

Additionally, consider seeking counseling to address the incident’s emotional and psychological effects. Proper medical and psychological care is essential for a complete recovery.

Document The Incident

Take pictures of your injuries after a dog attack. This will help show the severity of the incident. Continue taking photos regularly during your recovery to show the progress or changes.

You can also keep a journal. Start by writing down what happened while it’s still fresh in your memory. Continuously update your journal, documenting how you feel, your pain levels, and the impact on your daily life.

Keep copies of all your medical records, including doctor’s notes, treatment plans, and prescriptions. Save all bills, receipts, and invoices for medical treatment, check-ups, and other expenses incurred due to the dog bite. These records will demonstrate your expenses and support your claim.

Follow Up On Your Case

Stay in contact with the local health agency or animal control handling your case. Ask if the responsible party has coordinated with the authorities and inquire about the results of their investigation. You can follow up on the dog’s health, quarantine status, and what will happen to the dog.

Contact A Dog Bite Lawyer

It’s highly advisable to contact a dog bite attorney right away. Filing a claim with the dog owner’s insurance provider isn’t usually as straightforward as it seems. If they don’t have insurance, getting compensation can be more complicated.

A dog bite injury lawyer will review the validity of your claim and explain your legal options. More importantly, they can help you fight against the at-fault parties and their insurance companies trying to deny their liability. Look for dog bite injury law firms that offer free consultations. At Arash Law, we can evaluate your case for free.

Dog Ownership In Riverside County

The Riverside metro area boasts one of the highest dog ownership rates in the country. In 2021, around 46% of the households surveyed had at least one dog. It’s not surprising, given the pet-friendly spaces and amenities throughout the county.

Riverside County offers several scenic trails, parks, restaurants, and establishments where dogs are welcome. You can bring your beloved pup along a 10-mile trail along the Santa Ana River at Hidden Valley Nature Center and Wildlife Area or the Mount Rubidoux Trail, where you can go bird-watching with your pet.

These areas require dogs to always be on a leash to ensure safety and control. Riverside County offers several off-leash dog parks, including Carlson Bark Park, Riverwalk Dog Park, and Riverside’s War Dog Memorial Park.

These off-leash spaces provide an excellent way for dogs to socialize and run freely. However, there’s no way to be sure that every dog is adequately trained. As such, there’s an increased risk of being bitten in dog parks.

Dog bites are common outside off-leash parks as well. The truth is that dog bite attacks are unpredictable. They can happen anywhere and to anyone — whether you are a passerby, mail carrier, contractor, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

Dog Ownership Laws In Riverside

The Riverside County Code of Ordinances Title 6, Chapter 6.08 requires dogs to be:

Additionally, dogs must always be on a leash unless in an area designated as off-leash. Yet many owners don’t follow leash laws when bringing their pets into public spaces, leading to encounters with unrestrained dogs on sidewalks, cafes, and other public spaces.

While leashed dogs can still be dangerous at times, those uncontrolled by their owners are more likely to cause accidents involving pedestrians. For instance, our pedestrian accident lawyers previously represented a client who an unleashed dog severely injured while he was walking.

A dog without a leash might run loose and bolt to the middle of the road, potentially causing a car accident. They could also chase and bite someone unprovoked without someone preventing them from running.

What Is The Dog Bite Law In Riverside County?

In most cases, you can sue the owner of the dog that bit you. Riverside follows California’s strict liability laws regarding dog bites. Under Civil Code Section 3342, owners are financially liable if their pet bites someone, regardless of:

You only need to prove that the dog bit you and you were in a place you had a legal right to be. This includes public spaces and private properties to which you were invited. Under California law, a “public place” is any location open to the general public.

Are There Exceptions To The Strict Liability Law?

If you were trespassing, strict liability laws don’t apply. In such cases, you would have to prove the owner was negligent in some way to recover compensation. The law also provides exceptions if the victim was intentionally harassing or provoking the dog, causing it to bite.

Additionally, government agencies cannot be held liable for dog bites while the dog is carrying out official duties, such as police or military work. Some scenarios include the dog biting a suspect or someone involved in activities that require the dog’s use.

If you decide to sue the owner, be prepared for potential defenses. One example is the “assumption of risk,” which is often used when the injured victim works with animals. This defense suggests that the individual knowingly accepted the risk of being bitten as part of their job.

You need a Riverside personal injury attorney to build a solid strategy that can counter any defenses prepared by the dog owner. They can help you recover the highest compensation you’re entitled to under the law.

What Is Considered A “Dog Bite” Under This Law?

A “dog bite” does not have to penetrate the skin to be considered as such. In California, it is defined as a dog wrapping its teeth around a person. For instance, if a dog bites someone’s leg through their pants without breaking their skin, the incident still falls under strict liability laws.

The owner is responsible for the ensuing medical bills and damages, even if the bite did not directly cause the injury. For example, if a person sustains a back injury after slipping and falling to the ground while their leg is in the dog’s mouth, the owner must still compensate the victim for the treatment costs.

However, if the dog jumps on a person, trips them, or scratches them without using its teeth to grasp, it would not be considered a dog bite. California’s strict liability law doesn’t apply. Nevertheless, if you sustain injuries, you might still have a valid personal injury case against the owner. You should see a personal injury lawyer to explore your options and understand your rights.

Apart From The Owner, Who Else Can Be Liable For A Dog Bite?

While the dog owner is typically the primary party responsible for a dog bite, there may be other parties you can hold liable depending on the circumstances of the incident.

Here are some examples:

• The Property Owner — If the dog bite incident occurred on private property, the property owner could be held responsible under premises liability laws. For example, a landlord can be held accountable if a tenant’s dog bites a person and they are negligent in preventing the attack. Perhaps they knew the dog was dangerous and failed to take action.
• Current Handler Or Caretaker — An individual or business supposed to supervise the dog (apart from the owner) can also be held liable. This includes boarding facilities, dog walkers, and pet sitters who failed to exercise reasonable care, leading to the bite. For instance, if a dog walker lets the dog off the leash in a public area and bites someone, the dog walker could be held accountable.

Hiring a dog bite injury lawyer to review your case and determine the appropriate parties to hold accountable is best. They will also guide you in filing a personal injury claim against the responsible individuals or companies, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Resources For Animal Control And Services In Riverside

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Dog Bite Attacks Preventable?

Many dog bite cases — or other animal attacks, for that matter — are preventable. Here are some tips to help prevent dog bites:

• Don’t approach a dog at large or any dog without explicit permission from the owner.
• If an unfamiliar dog confronts you, move away slowly without running or screaming to avoid startling and provoking the animal.
• Avoid teasing or provoking a dog, even if you’re familiar with it.
• Pay attention to body language. Flashing teeth, curled lips, and a stiff body are signs of aggression. Move away slowly to diffuse the situation.
• If you have a child, you should educate them on properly interacting with dogs to prevent dog bites. Instruct them to always ask the owner for permission before approaching a dog and to avoid making sudden movements or loud noises around dogs.
• If you own a dog, ensure your yard or property is secure to prevent your dog from escaping and potentially encountering strangers.
• Ensure your dog is in good health and is regularly checked by a veterinarian. Sometimes, dogs bite out of pain or illness.

Preventing dog bites is a shared responsibility between dog owners and the public. Following these tips can help reduce the risk of dog bite incidents.

Is There A Deadline For Filing A Lawsuit After A Dog Bite?

Dog bite claims fall under personal injury law, which means they follow the applicable statute of limitations as well. In California, you have two years from the incident date to file an injury claim if you want to seek compensation from the responsible party.

While two years might seem like plenty of time, it’s best to file as soon as possible. Initiating the process allows your dog bite attorney to build a solid case, gather evidence, and secure witness statements while the details remain fresh.

What Damages Can I Recover For A Dog Bite?

If a dog has bitten you, you may be able to recover damages through a personal injury claim against the owner. Here are the types of losses you can generally include in a claim:

• Medical expenses related to the attack
• Ongoing treatment and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• The psychological and emotional impact of the incident

You need a personal injury lawyer to help you receive the total damages you are entitled to. They can help you determine the extent of your losses and build a strong case on your behalf.

How Much Should I Settle For A Dog Bite?

Never settle for less than what you know you deserve. Compensation should cover all your losses, including medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and any long-term effects of the injury.

For example, our dog bite attorneys previously won a case involving an elderly client who hit his head on asphalt after being attacked by an unleashed dog. He sustained traumatic brain injuries, incurring high medical bills and significant pain and suffering. We pursued a case against the dog owner, successfully recovering $2.3 Million in compensation. This allowed our client to recover and manage any future effects of the injury.

The amount you’re entitled to recover will depend on the extent of your injuries, the dog bite’s intangible effects on your life, and various other factors. Don’t immediately accept an insurance company’s settlement offer, as it could be well below the amount you need for your current and future expenses. Remember, you can’t reopen a personal injury case to get more compensation once you accept their offer. Instead, consult a dog bite injury attorney to estimate your claim’s value more accurately.

What Is The Average Compensation For A Dog Bite In California?

According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), California’s average payout per dog bite claim was $68,125 in 2023. The state had the highest number of claims across the U.S., totaling 2,104, with costs amounting to $143.3 million.

However, each dog bite case is unique, and compensation can vary significantly. The average settlement amount provides a general benchmark, but it’s far from the $2.3 million we’ve won for our past client. This case demonstrates how the actual amount you may receive can be much higher depending on the specific incident details.

Calculating fair compensation for personal injury cases is meticulous. Our dog bite attorneys consider all angles and collaborate with medical experts, economists, and other professionals to accurately assess the value of your claim. This comprehensive process allows us to secure the amount our clients need to recover and rebuild their lives.

What Should You Do If A Neighbor’s Dog Bites You In Riverside, California?

Seek medical attention after any dog bite incident to ensure you get proper treatment, including tetanus and rabies shots. Afterward, report the incident to local animal control authorities.

To seek compensation from your neighbor, consult a dog bite lawyer. Your eligibility to pursue a claim depends on the circumstances of the bite. For instance, if you were on your property, on the sidewalk, or lawfully in your neighbor’s house, the dog’s owner would typically be held responsible for your injuries. However, proving their liability will be more challenging if the dog bites you while you are inside someone else’s house without permission.

Can You Sue For A Minor Dog Bite In Riverside, California?

Yes, you can sue for a minor dog bite as long as you sustained damages. Even something you may consider minor can have severe and long-lasting effects. For example, a small puncture wound can become infected, leading to further complications. Additionally, a bite that does not break the skin can cause severe tissue damage. A dog’s jaw is much stronger than a human’s, which can inflict crushing injuries.

Beyond physical injuries, even minor dog bites can affect your mental and emotional well-being, causing distress and potentially leading to a severe fear of dogs. Regardless of severity, these incidents can also be especially harmful to children. Kids are more likely to develop a lasting fear of dogs, which can significantly affect their daily lives. This psychological impact is also compensable in a claim.

Seemingly minor dog bites can have significant consequences, and you have the right to seek compensation. You can discuss your legal grounds and options with a dog bite injury attorney to know more.

Does Riverside Have A One-Bite Rule For Dog Attacks?

Riverside County and the entire state of California do not follow a “one-bite rule.” Instead, they have strict liability laws for dog bites. You might ask, “How are they different?”

The one-bite rule doesn’t automatically hold the owner liable if their dog bites someone. Instead, it hinges on whether the owner knew or should have known about their dog’s dangerous tendencies. For the first incident, you must prove their negligence if they had no prior knowledge of the dog’s aggressive behavior. However, they would be responsible for any succeeding incident.

On the other hand, California’s strict liability rule does not consider the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s past behaviors. You don’t have to prove the owner’s negligence to hold them liable, even if the dog has no history of biting, aggression, or dangerous behavior.

What Should You Do If Your Dog Bites You And Breaks The Skin?

Even if it’s your own dog, don’t get complacent. Taking immediate action is crucial to preventing infection. Follow these steps:

For bites that break the skin, seeking medical attention within 24 hours is crucial. Even for a small puncture wound, you might need a tetanus or rabies shot. If there are signs of infection, you may also receive antibiotics orally or via IV.

What Are The Signs Of Infection From A Dog Bite?

If you have been bitten by a dog, it is crucial to monitor the wound for signs of infection. Common signs of infection include:

If you notice any of these signs, contact a healthcare professional immediately. Infections from dog bites can be severe and even fatal.

Can I File A Wrongful Death Claim For A Dog Bite?

If a dog bite leads to the death of a family member, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. The damages you can recover will help you pay for funeral and burial expenses, medical bills, and other applicable costs. Additionally, this can help compensate for the loss of financial support from the victim and the loss of love and companionship.

Talk to wrongful death lawyers to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

Who Can Sue For A Dog Bite In Riverside County?

Those who have been bitten by a dog can sue the owner of the animal for damages. Undocumented immigrants also have the right to sue for a dog bite in Riverside, just like everyone else in California. Anyone deserves compensation without fear of repercussions related to their immigration status. The attorneys at Arash Law don’t discriminate based on residency status. We only care that victims can access the legal system, no matter where they come from. If you were bitten by a dog, find top-rated personal injury lawyers near you to protect your rights.

Do I Need A Dog Bite Attorney?

A common question we get is, “Is it worth hiring a personal injury attorney?” Many might think they don’t need an attorney because they can settle directly with the other party. However, hiring a personal injury lawyer specializing in dog bite cases gives you certain advantages.

Here are some benefits of hiring injury attorneys:

• Effective representation based on their experience and in-depth knowledge of the laws
• A solid strategy utilizing the law firm’s resources
• Help with securing the necessary documents and evidence needed for your claim
• Negotiation skills with insurance companies

Many lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t have to pay upfront fees to hire their services. Our personal injury law firm operates similarly, helping you access quality legal representation for dog bite cases.

Got Bit By A Dog In Riverside? Our Dog Bite Injury Lawyers Will Help You Get Compensation

Dog bite attacks can lead to severe injuries, emotional trauma, and financial challenges. Contact our dog bite injury attorneys. We will explain your options for compensation and help you get your life back on track.

Our dog bite lawyers are well-versed in Riverside laws involving animal attacks, strict liability, and personal injury. We will help you navigate the complicated legal system to recover compensation for medical expenses and other losses.

As one of California’s biggest personal injury law firms, Arash Law has the knowledge, skills, and resources to improve your chances of success exponentially. Contact (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation today. We also have top-notch lawyers for car accidents, truck collisions, motorcycle crashes, workplace accident claims, and other personal injury cases.