La Jolla 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.
Trust Our La Jolla Dog Bite Lawyers Because Your Recovery Matters.
Our La Jolla dog bite lawyers are fierce advocates for those harmed by dog bites. If you’re struggling with medical bills, lost income, or emotional distress, we are here to fight for you. Call (888) 488-1391 today for a free consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your life.
Each year, millions of people in the U.S. suffer from dog bites. In San Diego County alone, approximately 2,500 dog bite incidents are reported annually to the California Department of Public Health. While dogs are beloved members of many families, they are still animals driven by instinct. Even the most well-behaved dog may bite if it feels threatened, stressed, scared, or protective of its owner or puppies, especially if it has a history of abuse.
Dog owners must control their pets, and when they fail, innocent people suffer. Our lawyers have a proven track record of holding dog owners accountable and obtaining substantial financial recoveries for victims. With years of experience handling dog bite cases, our attorneys understand the legal intricacies and emotional impact these incidents bring. We provide compassionate yet aggressive representation. Don’t let someone else’s actions dictate your future; call us now!
Choose Arash Law’s La Jolla Dog Bite Lawyers To Fight For You
Our committed dog bite lawyers provide unparalleled legal representation, ensuring you receive justice and fair financial compensation. With a track record of success, unwavering dedication, and client-focused service, our attorneys in La Jolla stand out as a trusted choice for dog bite victims seeking accountability and financial recovery.
Here’s what sets our lawyers in La Jolla apart and why you should choose us:
- Support You Can Rely On — Our attorneys work with a team of over 100 skilled legal professionals who are always just a phone call away. Regardless of the time or day, we are available to assist you with your legal concerns.
- Proven Results — Our lawyers have earned a stellar reputation, backed by 4.8 out of 5 stars from 800+ Google reviews. One satisfied client even shared:
“I recently had the privilege of working with an exceptional accident lawyer from Arash Law, and I cannot recommend them highly enough. Their expertise and attention to detail were evident from our first consultation. They navigated the complexities of my case with professionalism, ensuring I felt supported and informed throughout the process.” — Cristian E. (Google Review)
- Years of Experience — As one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, Arash Law has the experience and resources to handle even the most complex dog bite cases. While other law firms may come and go, our team’s expertise and commitment remain steadfast.
- No Win, No Fee Payment Structure — Integrity is at the core of our practice. We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. If we don’t secure compensation for you, you owe us nothing.
Some Of Our Case Results
Our attorneys have a strong history of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for injury victims. We are relentless in holding negligent parties accountable and fighting for the restitution our clients deserve. Below are some of our notable case outcomes:
- $41,950,000 — A homeless man used a baseball bat to attack a couple inside a Walmart store. The jury found Walmart 50% responsible for failing to secure the bat, resulting in a substantial judgment against the company.
- $18,700,000 — An 18-year-old farmworker suffered severe leg injuries when the defendant’s harvesting machinery collapsed on him. The defendant denied responsibility, but our skilled attorneys took the case to arbitration and won.
- $2,300,000 — Our client sustained a traumatic brain injury after an unleashed dog knocked him to the ground, causing his head to hit the asphalt. With the right medical care, he is recovering, and our attorneys secured the maximum policy limits from the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance.
Our proven results show our dedication to securing justice and financial recovery for our clients. If a dog bites you in La Jolla, get medical treatment right away, then contact Arash Law lawyers for the legal support you need.
largest animal attack settlement in 2020 for California; client suffered Traumatic Brain Injury– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
How Our Attorneys Can Help You With Your Dog Bite Case
A dog bite can leave you facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and an uncertain future. “I need a personal injury lawyer” may be your first thought, and our La Jolla dog bite lawyers are here to provide the strong legal support you need. We take immediate action to protect your rights, build a solid case, and pursue the maximum compensation available.
Our attorneys take the burden off your shoulders by:
- Investigating the incident to gather crucial evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage.
- Calculating the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs.
- Holding dog owners and other potentially liable parties accountable for your injuries.
- Providing constant updates and legal guidance, ensuring you understand every step of the process.
- Handling all communication and negotiations with insurance companies to prevent lowball settlements.
- Taking your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation.
Our injury lawyers make the legal process as convenient as possible. We’ll come to you wherever and whenever you need us. Whether it’s an in-person consultation at your home, office, or hospital bedside, we will work around your schedule to ensure you get the legal help you need.
Dog Bite Laws In San Diego County, California
California has some of the strictest dog bite laws in the country, holding dog owners accountable for damages resulting from dog bites. In San Diego County, dog bite cases can involve both strict liability and premises liability, depending on the circumstances of the incident.
Under strict liability, a dog owner is automatically responsible for the resulting damages if their dog bites someone in a public place or while the victim is lawfully on private property. As long as the victim did not provoke the dog and was not trespassing, the owner is liable for damages.
In some cases, premises liability may also apply. If a property owner, landlord, or business allows an aggressive dog on the premises without proper warnings or precautions, they may be responsible for injuries caused by the animal. A dog bite victim may be able to hold both the dog owner and the property owner accountable if negligence plays a role in the incident.
San Diego County also has specific laws regulating dog bites and owner responsibilities, which include:
- Mandatory Reporting — Dog bites must be reported to the Department of Animal Services by the victim, the treating physician, or the dog owner.
- Quarantine And Isolation — The county has the authority to confine or isolate dogs involved in incidents to ensure public safety.
- Owner Penalties — Dog owners can face legal consequences for failing to restrain their pets, lacking proper licensing, or allowing their dog to create a dangerous situation.
To fully understand your rights and determine the best course of action, speak with our La Jolla dog bite lawyers. They can evaluate your case, explain the laws that apply, and help you pursue maximum compensation.
Dog Bite?
Recoverable Compensation In A Dog Bite Case
If someone else’s dog bites you, you may be entitled to compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial impact of your injuries. In California, the law does not impose a cap on damages in dog bite cases. The amount you may receive depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, their impact on your life, and available insurance coverage. Damages may include:
- Medical expenses
- Psychological counseling
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Loss of limbs
- Physical or vocational therapy
If a dog owner is found to have acted with intentional misconduct or willful neglect, the court may award punitive damages. These damages aim to punish the responsible party and deter similar negligent or malicious behavior in the future. Punitive damages are not automatic in dog bite cases and are typically reserved for egregious misconduct.
The severity of your injury will significantly impact the compensation you may receive. Minor wounds such as abrasions may result in lower damages, while severe cases like rabies exposure, deep lacerations, avulsions, or nerve damage could lead to more substantial claims.
Determining the exact value of your case depends on various factors, including medical records, the extent of your suffering, and the circumstances of the incident. Call the best La Jolla dog bite lawyers at (888) 488-1391. They can assess your case and calculate your potential damages.
Wrongful Death Claims
Losing a loved one to a dog attack is devastating. Families not only endure grief and sorrow but also face the heavy financial burden of a dog bite fatality. While no amount of money can truly fill the void left behind, pursuing a wrongful death claim can offer some financial stability and a sense of justice during a difficult time.
Our compassionate wrongful death attorneys understand these challenges and dedicate themselves to helping families seek the compensation they deserve. This compensation can include damages for:
- Funeral and burial expenses.
- Loss of income and benefits the deceased would have provided.
- Loss of companionship, love, and support.
Additionally, a “survival action” allows the victim’s estate to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering the victim endured between the injury and their death. These claims help ensure that those responsible for the attack are held fully accountable for the harm they caused, both to the victim and to the victim’s family.
Our La Jolla dog bite lawyers can assist in filing either or both of these claims so your losses are duly compensated.
How Our Attorneys Prove Liability In Dog Bite Cases
Proving liability in a dog bite case requires a clear legal strategy. Under California’s strict liability law, dog owners are responsible for injuries their dog causes, regardless of prior aggression. To prove strict liability, our attorneys establish:
- Ownership — The defendant owned the dog.
- Location — The bite occurred in a public place or while you were lawfully on private property.
- Injury — The bite caused you harm.
- Causation — The dog bite was a direct and substantial factor in your injuries.
Some exceptions to strict liability include:
- Trespassing – If the victim was unlawfully on private property, the owner may not be liable.
- Law Enforcement Dogs – Police or military dogs on duty are generally exempt unless they bite an innocent bystander.
- Assumed Risk – Professionals like veterinarians who voluntarily interact with dogs may not have a strict liability claim, though negligence may still apply if an owner fails to warn about aggression.
However, not all cases fall under strict liability. In some situations, you may need to establish liability through negligence. For example, if a landlord knew a dangerous dog was on the property but failed to take reasonable precautions, they may be held accountable under premises liability laws. To prove this, our attorneys demonstrate:
- Duty of Care — The property owner had a legal responsibility to maintain a safe environment.
- Knowledge of Danger — The owner knew or should have known about the aggressive dog.
- Failure To Act — The owner did not take reasonable steps to prevent harm.
- Injury Resulting from Negligence — The victim suffered harm due to the owner’s failure to act.
Our La Jolla dog bite attorneys are skilled in proving responsibility under both strict liability and negligence laws. We handle the legal challenges so you can focus on your recovery. Call us today at (888) 488-1391 to get legal advice free of charge.
What To Do If A Dog Bites You
A dog bite is a jarring experience, but taking the right steps immediately after the incident can protect both your health and your legal rights. Here’s a helpful guide to ensure you handle the situation properly:
- Move to a safe location and assess your wounds. Look for puncture marks, bleeding, or serious injuries such as broken bones or difficulty breathing. If you sustain severe injuries, call 911 right away. Seek medical care even for minor bites to prevent infections such as rabies or tetanus. Keep medical records for legal documentation.
- Ask the dog owner for their name, contact details, and proof of the dog’s rabies vaccination. Take note of the dog’s breed, size, and any unique markings.
- Take clear photos of your injuries, including any punctures, scratches, or bruises. Capture images of the scene where the bite occurred and, if possible, the dog itself. If there were witnesses, collect their names and contact information.
- Notify San Diego County Animal Services as soon as possible. You can call their emergency line at (619) 236-2341. If the bite was severe or the dog displayed aggressive behavior, consider reporting the incident to the local law enforcement as well.
- Consult our La Jolla dog bite lawyers. They can help you understand your rights, gather crucial evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
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
Time Limits To File A Dog Bite Lawsuit
The statute of limitations, or the time limit for filing a lawsuit in California, gives you two years from the date of the dog bite incident. If you miss this deadline, you will likely lose the opportunity to pursue compensation for your injuries.
Some exceptions allow for extending the time limit. One example is when the victim is a minor. If a child gets bitten, the statute of limitations pauses until they turn 18 years old. However, in most cases, a parent or legal guardian files a claim on the child’s behalf well before this deadline. Taking legal action as soon as possible is crucial to protecting the child’s rights and improving your chances of a successful claim.
To ensure you meet all legal deadlines and protect your rights, contact our La Jolla dog bite lawyers as soon as possible. They can guide you through the process and help you take action before time runs out.
Dog Bite Statistics
Dog bites remain a serious public health and safety concern, affecting thousands of people each year. From severe injuries to fatal rabies infections, the impact of these incidents can be devastating. It is important to understand the prevalence of dog bites and to hold irresponsible dog owners accountable. Here are some statistics that shed light on the frequency and impact of dog bites:
- Rabies contributes to an estimated 59,000 deaths annually worldwide, most caused by bites from rabid dogs.
- California leads the nation with 2,104 dog bite claims filed in 2023.
- More than 5,800 U.S. Postal Service employees were attacked by dogs in 2023.
As dog bite cases continue to rise, victims must understand their legal rights and options for seeking compensation. If you’ve been bitten and are wondering about your legal options, fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form to get a professional case evaluation. Our La Jolla dog bite attorneys will let you know if you have a valid claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our La Jolla dog bite lawyers receive many questions from victims seeking legal guidance after an incident. We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions about dog bite claims, liability, and compensation. If you need personalized advice, call us at (888) 488-1391.
What Is My Dog Bite Case Worth?
The value of a dog bite claim varies based on several key factors. While an exact estimate requires a detailed consultation, the following elements typically influence the compensation you may receive:
- Severity and nature of your injuries.
- Medical expenses, including ongoing and future treatment.
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential.
- Pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
- Impact on your daily life and overall well-being.
- Permanent disabilities or disfigurement.
- Circumstances surrounding the incident.
To get a clearer understanding of how much your claim is worth, consult with our La Jolla attorneys specializing in dog bite cases. They can evaluate your situation, calculate potential compensation, and help you pursue the maximum recovery available.
Can I Sue If The Dog Owner Is A Family Member Or Friend?
Yes, you can sue if a family member or friend’s dog bites you. Their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance typically covers your claim, not their personal funds. Therefore, you can seek compensation without directly impacting them financially. Our La Jolla lawyers for dog bite cases handle the legal process for you, ensuring you receive the maximum compensation while minimizing stress on your relationships.
Can I Sue The Dog Owner If The Bite Occurred On Their Property?
Yes, you can. California law holds dog owners strictly liable for bites, whether or not the incident happens on their property. In some cases, you may also have a premises liability claim against the property owner if they failed to keep their property safe. Our La Jolla lawyers will review your dog bite case, identify all liable parties, and fight for the reparation you rightfully deserve.
Can I Still Pursue A Dog Bite Claim If The Dog Had No History Of Aggression?
You can pursue a dog bite claim even if the dog showed no previous signs of aggression. California law imposes strict liability on dog owners for bites, regardless of the dog’s past behavior. Our dog bite attorneys in La Jolla will assess your case, gather strong evidence, and work to secure a fair financial recovery for you.
What If The Dog Owner Doesn’t Have Insurance Or Assets To Compensate Me?
If the dog owner does not have insurance or sufficient assets, you may still have options for financial recovery. Our La Jolla dog bite attorneys will investigate alternative sources, such as renters’ or homeowners’ insurance policies, and explore other potential avenues for compensation. We will guide you through the legal process and work to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
How Long Does It Take To Resolve A Dog Bite Case?
The time it takes to resolve a dog bite case depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries.
- The complexity of legal issues involved.
- Whether the case settles or proceeds to trial.
Some cases settle within months, while others may take longer if litigation is necessary. Our experienced dog bite lawyers will handle every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, ensuring a smooth legal process while you focus on recovery.
Seek Justice With Reputable Dog Bite Lawyers In La Jolla
Our elite La Jolla dog bite lawyers have recovered over $750 million for injury victims, including substantial settlements in dog bite cases. Led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our attorneys can hold liable parties accountable and fight to secure the maximum financial recovery for victims of these traumatic incidents. From the moment you contact us, our attorneys will aggressively advocate for your rights, guiding you through every step of the legal process. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to trial, we fight relentlessly to achieve the best possible outcome.
We are available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide the legal support you need. If you are unable to travel, our attorneys will come to you. Our legal services extend beyond La Jolla to San Diego, Solana Beach, Coronado, Encinitas, National City, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, Poway, Spring Valley, Chula Vista, and Santee. Although we are best known for our award-winning car accident lawyers, we also handle cases involving truck accidents, DUI crashes, rideshare collisions involving Uber and Lyft, and slip-and-falls. Call us at (888) 488-1391 now!
