Irvine 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.
Our Irvine Dog Bite Lawyers Offer Legal Help That Puts You First
Dog bites can be overwhelming. Even more alarming is that you never know when an attack might occur. If a dog has bitten you or a loved one, you may have the right to seek compensation from its owner. Call (888) 488-1391 to speak with our Irvine dog bite lawyers. We offer free, no-obligation initial consultations.
It can be challenging to deal with injuries and legal issues at the same time. At Arash Law, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you and explain your legal rights. Our team strives to help you pursue compensation for your injuries. Let us handle the legal concerns and complexities so you can focus on your recovery.
Why Hire Irvine Dog Bite Attorneys From Arash Law
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s not just about the physical injuries. You may also face high medical bills and emotional trauma. In this situation, working with a skilled lawyer can be beneficial. Our experienced Irvine dog bite attorneys are committed to helping you seek compensation for your injuries and other losses.
With experience in dealing with various personal injury cases, we are committed to handling your dog bite claim with diligence. Over the years, we’ve helped injured victims manage their cases and negotiate on their behalf.
Our Irvine injury law firm has a legal team that is dedicated to your case. Since each case is unique, we aim to build personalized strategies for each client. Our lawyers will answer your questions and keep you updated on your case.
We also work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t have to worry about paying any legal fees upfront. Our attorneys only get paid if they obtain compensation for your case, but other costs may arise regardless of he outcome of your case. Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391.
largest animal attack settlement in 2020 for California; client suffered Traumatic Brain Injury– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Benefits Of Working With Irvine Lawyers For Your Dog Bite Claim
It can be hard to deal with the aftermath of a dog bite, especially if the injuries are serious. We’ll take care of all the legal matters so you can focus on getting better. Our Irvine dog bite lawyers can do the following:
- Guide you through the claims process and answer your legal questions.
- Examine the incident to uncover all the details leading to the accident.
- Identify other potentially liable parties, including pet sitters or homeowners, apart from the dog’s owners.
- Collaborate with qualified medical specialists to assess the extent of your injuries.
- Determine the amount of your losses (medical bills, lost wages, and future expenses).
- Manage the paperwork and file your insurance claim within the filing period.
- Negotiate with the insurance company to pursue your claim.
- Take your case to trial if a settlement cannot be reached and if it is an appropriate option for your case.
As a personal injury law firm in California, Arash Law is dedicated to providing valuable legal guidance and advocacy. We work hard to pursue the compensation that may be available to you under the law. If you’re wondering if you have a viable claim, fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form.
Why Dog Owners Are Responsible For Bites
Dogs are usually friendly and loyal companions, but they can bite under certain circumstances. Many dog bites happen because owners are negligent or fail to take proper precautions. Even the most well-behaved pets can become aggressive if mishandled or improperly supervised. Here are some common reasons dog bite injuries occur and how the owner might be held responsible:
- Failure to Manage Stressful Situations — Dogs can become stressed by loud noises, unfamiliar surroundings, or chaotic environments. Responsible dog owners should recognize these triggers and remove their dogs from situations that could lead to aggression. Neglecting to do so increases the risk of bites.
- Lack of Proper Training & Socialization — Dogs that aren’t properly trained or socialized are more likely to react aggressively to unfamiliar people or situations. It’s the owner’s responsibility to have their pets trained to behave safely in various environments.
- Negligence in Preventing Fear or Startling Situations — Owners must ensure their dogs feel secure and are not subjected to situations that could cause fear, such as loud noises or sudden movements. Failing to calm a fearful dog could lead to avoidable bites.
- Ignoring Warning Signs of Perceived Threats — Dogs are naturally protective, but if an owner fails to control their pet when it perceives a threat, it can lead to injury. Responsible owners must monitor and manage their dog’s interactions to prevent bites.
- Failure To Address Pain Or Injury — A dog in pain may bite out of frustration or vulnerability. Owners who neglect their pet’s health or fail to warn others about the dog’s condition can be held responsible for resulting injuries.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, our experienced dog bite lawyers in Irvine can help. We’ll work towards establishing fault and helping you pursue just compensation for your injuries. Contact us to discuss your case and your legal options.
Dog Bite?
Liability For Dog Bite Incidents
California is a “strict liability” state in dog bite cases. If a dog bites someone, the owner is responsible for the injuries and damages they suffered. The injured individual does not need to show that the owner was negligent. They are liable whether or not:
- The dog has a history of biting.
- The owner made reasonable efforts to prevent the bite.
- They had grounds to suspect the dog was dangerous.
In a strict liability claim, your dog bite lawyer must demonstrate the following:
- Ownership — The at-fault party owned the dog that bit you.
- Bite Incident — The dog actually bit you or your loved one.
- Location — The bite occurred in a public place or while you were lawfully on private property.
- Injuries — The dog bite directly caused your injuries.
There are a few exceptions where strict liability does not apply:
- The injured victim was trespassing at the time of the incident.
- The victim provoked the dog.
- The victim voluntarily and knowingly assumed the risk of being bitten (e.g., a dog trainer or a veterinarian).
- The dog was carrying out police or military duties when the bite occurred.
However, the owner may still be held responsible, depending on the circumstances. In these cases, proving liability may require demonstrating negligence or other legal theories. If you have questions about who is liable for your dog bite, contact our skilled lawyers in Irvine. They can review your situation and explain who may be responsible for your injuries.
Vital Evidence To Support Your Dog Bite Claim
Vital evidence plays a crucial role in proving your dog bite case and establishing liability. The following types of evidence can support your claim:
- Details from any witnesses who saw the bite happen.
- Photos of your injuries after the bite and after medical treatment, especially if there is permanent scarring.
- Photos of the dog and the location where the incident occurred.
- Medical records showing the treatment you received for your injuries.
- Any reports from animal control or law enforcement related to the incident.
- Proof of previous incidents involving the dog, such as prior complaints or attacks.
- Statements from medical professionals about the severity of your injuries and their long-term effects.
To keep everything organized, create a folder for storing all the evidence you gather. This will help keep everything in one place to share with your lawyer. Our Irvine dog bite attorneys can then help gather additional proof to support your claim.
Recoverable Compensation After A Dog Bite Accident
Dog bite injuries can be severe and vary depending on the situation. Injured victims may sustain puncture wounds, shattered bones, eye injuries, and scarring. They may also experience head and neck trauma, nerve damage, and facial lesions. In some cases, there’s also the risk of rabies if the dog is not vaccinated.
These injuries can have lasting effects on your health, both physically and emotionally. So, if you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite incident, you may be able to seek compensation for various losses. The damages you may pursue may include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages and benefits
- Lost earning capacity
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Physical or vocational therapy
- Psychological counseling cost
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In tragic cases where a dog bite results in death, surviving family members may be able to pursue financial settlement to cover burial costs, funeral expenses, and emotional support the deceased would have provided. These types of claims are typically filed as wrongful death cases.
Punitive damages, albeit rare, may be granted in circumstances where the dog owner acts intentionally or negligently. These damages punish the at-fault party for exhibiting exceptionally egregious behavior.
The amount of compensation available will depend on the specific details of the case. Our Irvine dog bite lawyers can help you navigate the process and evaluate the extent of your losses.
What To Do After A Dog Bite
If a dog has bitten you, here are a few guidelines to consider to protect your health and obtain adequate documentation:
- Wash the wound as soon as possible with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection. If the bite is deep or bleeding heavily, apply pressure with a clean cloth to control the bleeding.
- Call 911 to get emergency help. You may ask the dispatcher to notify the animal services in Irvine. They will create an official report, which is crucial for your insurance claim and potential legal action, and it may prompt an investigation into the dog’s behavior.
- Take pictures of your injuries, the location where the incident occurred, and any details about the dog involved (if possible). Note the dog’s breed, color, height, and other features. Ask for the owner’s details as well.
- Visit a healthcare professional soon after the incident to have the wound assessed and treated. Getting medical attention also ensures that your injuries are properly documented for your case.
- Consult with experienced dog bite attorneys in Irvine. They will help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the claims process. A lawyer can assist in preserving evidence and determine your possible legal options.
What initially seemed like a routine rear-end collision, commonly known as a “fender bender,” turned into a significant settlement with high maximum limits for a client who suffered lower back disc injuries. The case was resolved just two weeks before the scheduled trial commencement.– BRIAN BEECHER
Deadlines For Filing Dog Bite Claims
For dog bite claims in California, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a case. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. Regardless of how strong your case is, missing this time limit could prevent you from receiving any compensation for your injuries.
If you’re not sure how to continue or are concerned about running out of time, our team is here to assist. Our Irvine personal injury lawyers, focusing on dog bite cases, can help you with every step, from gathering proof to making sure you file your paperwork on time. Let us handle this legal deadline so you can focus on getting better and moving forward.
Dog Bite Attack Statistics
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), from 2011 to 2021, there were 468 deaths caused by dog bite attacks, averaging about 43 deaths per year. In 2021 alone, this number spiked to 81 deaths. Between 2018 and 2021, the number of deaths more than doubled, rising from 15 to 37 for males and from 20 to 44 for females.
Beyond physical injuries, dog bite attacks can leave emotional scars and financial burdens. If a dog has bitten you or someone you know, speak with our experienced Irvine accident lawyers. We understand your situation and can guide you every step of the way. To schedule a complimentary consultation, call us at (888) 488-1391.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Money Can You Get For A Dog Bite?
The amount of money you can get for a dog bite depends on a number of factors that are unique to your case. These include how bad your injuries are, how the accident affects your ability to work, how much you’ve spent on medical bills and other costs, and how much mental and physical pain you’ve been through.
Typically, severe injuries result in more losses, but each case is unique. You should consult dog bite lawyers in Irvine to assess your case. We can help calculate the potential value of your claim.
What Happens If A Dog Bites My Child? Can I Pursue A Claim On Their Behalf?
You can take legal action on behalf of your child if they suffered injuries in a dog bite incident. Children are especially at risk during dog bite attacks because they may not be able to protect themselves or get away quickly. These injuries can be serious, requiring surgeries, ongoing medical treatment, and, in some cases, leaving lasting scars or emotional trauma.
Even if the dog owner is a friend or family member, you can still seek financial compensation to cover your child’s medical expenses, emotional recovery, and any future needs resulting from the attack. Our Irvine attorneys, with experience handling dog bite claims, are here to guide you through the process and work to seek damages on your behalf.
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Dog Bite Claim?
The time it takes to resolve a claim after being bitten by a dog can vary. For minor injuries where responsibility is clear, the process may wrap up in a few months. On the other hand, cases involving severe injuries or disagreements over fault might take a year or more to settle. Our Irvine dog bite attorneys can assess your case and provide you with an approximate timeframe based on your specific situation.
Is It Worth Hiring A Lawyer For A Dog Bite Claim?
Dog bite lawyers in Irvine can manage the legal aspects of your case and guide you through the process. They know how to handle the paperwork, meet deadlines, and calculate the potential value of your claim. You can focus on healing while they work to pursue compensation and advocate for your rights. Having an attorney can help if you’re unfamiliar with the complexities of your case or if it involves intricate legal issues.
Does Homeowners Insurance Typically Cover Dog Bite Incidents?
In many cases, homeowners’ insurance helps cover injuries caused by a dog bite. This usually falls under the liability portion of the policy and can include medical expenses, legal fees, and other related costs. In fact, homeowners’ insurance policies typically have liability limits ranging from $100,000 to $300,000, according to the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I). Despite these limits, it’s important to remember that coverage applies only to actual damages and may vary depending on the specifics of the policy.
It’s a good idea to review your policy or speak with your insurance provider to understand what’s covered. If you’re unsure or have questions after a dog bite incident, our Irvine lawyers are here to guide you.
If A Dog Didn't Bite Me But Caused Injury In Another Way (E.g., Knocking Me Down), Do I Have A Claim?
Even if a dog didn’t bite you, their actions could still make the owner responsible if you were hurt. For example, if a dog knocked you down and you were injured, you could still seek restitution for your medical bills, lost wages, or other damages.
Dog owners are expected to keep their pets under control, and when they don’t, they can be held accountable. Our dog bite lawyers in Irvine can help you understand your options and outline the steps to pursue compensation for your injuries based on the extent of your injuries.
Will My Case Go To Court, Or Can It Be Settled Out Of Court?
Many cases are resolved without the need to go to court. Settlements are often reached through negotiation, saving time and stress for everyone involved.
However, if a fair agreement isn’t possible, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court if it is a viable option. Our Irvine dog bite attorneys will stand by your side, advocate for your rights, and help you pursue compensation. Either way, we’ll support you throughout the process.
Contact Irvine Dog Bite Lawyers For Help With Your Case
If you’re injured in a dog bite incident, you might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” The answer depends on the details of your case. Navigating the legal process can be difficult, especially when dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and injuries. However, with an experienced lawyer by your side, you have someone who can help you manage your case.
Our Irvine dog bite lawyers can provide you with a free initial consultation, where we can discuss the specifics of your case and guide you through your legal options. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to speak with one of our attorneys.
We assist injured victims in Irvine and surrounding areas, including Tustin, Costa Mesa, Santa Ana, Orange, Newport Beach, Fountain Valley, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, and Garden Grove. Our car accident lawyers also handle truck collisions and rideshare crashes involving Uber and Lyft.
