Riverside 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 Riverside Dog Bite Lawyers Deliver Experience And Knowledge When You Need It Most
A dog bite can be a deeply unsettling experience, leaving you shaken and unsure of what to do next. If you find yourself in this challenging situation, call our Riverside dog bite lawyers at (888) 488-1391 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We will assist you in obtaining the medical care needed for your recovery and will relentlessly pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
A lot of people consider dogs to be loyal companions that bring comfort and joy to their families, earning the title “man’s best friend.” However, even the most beloved pets can sporadically show unpredictable or aggressive behavior. Whether it’s a family pet that bites you or a stray dog, such incidents can lead to serious health concerns requiring expensive treatment.
If someone else’s dog bites you, you have the right to seek justice. Arash Law can help you seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Let us handle all the legal matters so you can focus on getting better. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation.
Why Hire Our Riverside Dog Bite Lawyers
At Arash Law, our Riverside dog bite lawyers bring years of experience and dedication to every case, helping victims recover the damages they are entitled to. Here’s why you should hire us for your dog bite case:
- Expertise You Can Trust — We handle your case with deep legal knowledge and understanding.
- Decades Of Experience — With decades of experience and a proven record of success, we know how to deal with insurance companies and even the most complex dog bite claims.
- Family-Like Care And Transparent Communication — We treat every client with the care and respect they deserve. We offer personalized attention to guide you through the recovery process.
- Aggressive Representation — Our attorneys fight relentlessly for your rights and work tirelessly to secure the restitution you are owed, whether through negotiation or litigation.
- Tailored Strategies — We approach every case with a customized strategy that addresses your specific needs, ensuring we take the best course of action to get the results you deserve.
- Contingency Fee Structure — At Arash Law, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay anything upfront. Instead, you only pay us when we win your case and you receive your settlement. This way, you can focus on your recovery without the added stress of financial worries.
As one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, we are committed to using our vast resources and experience to fight for your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t delay your justice and recovery. Call us now!
largest animal attack settlement in 2020 for California; client suffered Traumatic Brain Injury.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
What Sets Our Dog Bite Attorneys Apart From Others
Many law firms handle dog bite cases, but here’s what sets our Riverside injury law firm apart:
- Proven Case Result — We have secured over $500 million in settlements for our clients. In fact, we secured $2,300,000 for a client who sustained severe head injuries after an unleashed dog attacked them. Thanks to exceptional medical care and our aggressive legal representation, our client continues to recover from the traumatic injury, and we were able to secure the maximum policy limits from the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance.
- Unparalleled Customer Service — Our clients rave about the care and attention we give them. Here are some of their testimonials:
- “They are fully staffed office and the guy handling my case was a former insurance adjustor who left his company to work for Arash. They did better than I could have asked for!!!” — Ballet C.
- “They are really great! I worked with other attorneys in the past and never received this type of professional representation. This office really cares about their clients. Thank you so much!” — Lene B.
- “They were incredibly compassionate with me and eased all my fears and stress over the case and let me focus on my recovery.” — Jullie G.
- “My lawyer explained the process step by step and always kept me updated on new information. I am definitely happy with my decision to choose Arash Law to represent me. They are SO AWESOME!” — Isaac L.
Arash Law is regarded by many as one of the best personal injury law firms in California. Speak with our Riverside dog bite lawyers today for a free consultation, and let us put our expertise to work for you.
How Our Riverside Dog Bite Lawyers Can Help
Handling your case without an attorney might jeopardize your right to fair compensation. Don’t leave your case to chance. Here’s how our Riverside dog bite attorneys can assist you in securing the justice and financial support you deserve:
- We will leverage our knowledge of California dog bite laws and experience in handling personal injury claims to your advantage.
- We negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, allowing you to focus on recovery.
- Our lawyers determine whether a settlement offer is fair and adequate based on your injuries and other damages.
- Our attorneys handle all legal paperwork and deadlines so that you don’t have to worry about missing important details.
- We will build a compelling case based on strong evidence to maximize your chances of success.
- Our team is always ready to represent you in court to pursue the best possible outcome.
If a dog has bitten you, don’t wait to take action. Contact our Riverside dog bite attorneys today to start your journey toward justice and financial recovery. With our experience and proven track record, we’ll fight to ensure you get a fair indemnity.
Dog Bite Levels And Definitions
Dog bites range from minor nips to life-threatening injuries. Medical professionals and legal experts use these levels to determine how serious the incident is and how to proceed.
Dr. Ian Dunbar’s Dog Bite Scale is a widely used classification system for dog bites. There are six levels of severity, each indicating an increasing level of risk:
- Level 1 — Aggressive behavior, but no tooth-to-skin contact.
- Level 2 — The dog’s teeth make contact with the skin but it is not punctured. It may leave red marks or mild bruises.
- Level 3 — A single dog bite causes one to four shallow punctures, none deeper than half the length of the dog’s canine teeth.
- Level 4 — There are one to four deep punctures in a single dog bite, with at least one puncture deeper than half the length of the canine teeth.
- Level 5 — Multiple dog bites and attacks result in varying severity. Each of the incidents involves at least one Level 4 bite.
- Level 6 — The dog bite resulted in the death of the victim.
Understanding the levels of dog bites can help determine the owner’s liability and the seriousness of the situation for injured victims. If you or someone you know has been injured in a dog bite incident, reach out to the best Riverside injury lawyers for expert guidance. They can assess your situation and help you recover compensation.
Dog Bite?
Applicable Dog Bite Laws In Riverside, California
California, and by extension all localities within, enforces a “strict liability” law for dog owners. Strict liability refers to a legal principle where a party is held responsible for their actions or the actions of others, regardless of intent or negligence. In the context of dog ownership, this means that dog owners can be held accountable for any injuries or damages caused by their pets, even if they took all necessary precautions to prevent such incidents. This is true whether or not the dog has a history of violence or the owner is aware of its viciousness.
In addition, the owner is responsible for the resulting harm if the victim is bitten in a public place or private property where the latter had permission or a legal right to be.
Here are some circumstances in which you might be eligible for compensation:
- The dog that bit you had never exhibited aggressive behavior previously.
- The dog bit you in a public place because the owner failed to restrain it correctly.
- You were bitten while performing your job on the owner’s property.
- The dog bit you while you were legally on the owner’s property.
- Another person’s dog bit you on someone else’s property.
If any of the above applies to your situation, you may be able to seek payment from the dog’s owner. However, there are exceptions to this rule. The owner might not be held strictly liable if:
- The victim teased or provoked the dog.
- The victim was trespassing at the time of the dog bite attack.
- The bite took place while the victim was performing paid work involving the dog.
Where strict liability does not apply, proving negligence may be necessary. It’s wise to consult the best dog bite attorneys in Riverside to understand your rights and determine whether exceptions apply in your situation.
Other Potentially Liable Parties For Dog Bite Attacks
Under the strict liability statute, dog owners are automatically responsible for the damages suffered by victims. However, certain circumstances may shift the burden to others. These include the following parties:
- Dog Keeper Or Caretaker — A pet sitter or animal shelter may be held liable for the bite incident if they were responsible for caring for the dog at the time. Courts consider who had control over the dog during the incident.
- Landlord — A landlord may be held accountable for a dog bite incident if they knew the dog was being kept on the property, were aware of its viciousness, and failed to take action to address the situation. For example, the landlord could have required the dog’s owner to secure the animal or remove it from the premises but neglected to do so.
- Government — The government may be held responsible in cases involving police or service dogs. If a police dog attacks someone and the use of force is ruled unjustified, the victim may have legal recourse against the authorities.
Although California’s strict liability law often applies to dog bite cases, some situations require proving negligence. Our experienced Riverside lawyers, who specialize in dog bite cases, will gather evidence to determine the cause of the incident and identify the liable party.
Establishing Negligence In A Dog Bite Case
In spite of California’s strict liability laws for dog bite attacks, there are instances in which proving negligence is essential to securing compensation. Your attorney must show that the responsible party failed to take appropriate precautions to prevent the incident. Establishing negligence involves four elements:
- Duty Of Care — The responsible party has a duty to keep you safe. They are expected to take reasonable precautions to prevent a dog bite. For example, a property owner should ensure their dog is properly confined.
- Breach Of Duty — Your attorney must establish that the duty of care was breached. Riverside leash laws require all responsible parties to properly restrain their dogs, such as by using a leash, muzzle, or kennel. If they fail to do so and it leads to a dog bite incident, they have breached their responsibility.
- Causation — Your lawyer must prove that the breach of duty caused your injury. If the responsible party failed to restrain the dog properly and it bit you, that failure must be shown to have directly led to your injury. This is crucial for proving liability.
- Damages — You must show that you suffered damages due to the dog bite attack. This includes your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses as a result of the incident.
This concept also applies in other situations. If you were attempting to escape from a dog and, as a result, got into a car accident due to a speeding driver who couldn’t stop in time, you might have grounds to file a separate claim for your injuries and damages. Our Riverside car accident lawyers can help you navigate such cases, ensuring all responsible parties are held accountable.
Call our Riverside dog bite attorneys at (888) 488-1391 for expert guidance. We will evaluate your situation to determine whether strict liability laws apply.
Possible Compensation In A Dog Bite Claim
Dog bite victims may be entitled to monetary payment for the damages they have suffered. These losses can help cover all of their expenses.
Here are some of the damages that victims may be able to recover:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Physical and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Lost wages and benefits
- Loss of consortium
- Rehabilitation
- Impaired quality of life
- Medical device
- Disfigurement
- Reduced earning capacity
- Future income loss
The varying severity of your injuries can also affect the amount of your claim. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Lacerations
- Ligament damage
- Puncture wounds
- Nerve damage
- Rabies
These injuries can not only cause immense pain and suffering but can also have long-term effects on your ability to work, perform daily activities, and enjoy life. Reach out to our Riverside personal injury lawyers specializing in dog bite cases. We will help you evaluate your case and calculate the damages you are entitled to.
What To Do If A Dog Bites You
If a dog has bitten you, remain calm and collected. Here are the steps you should take to protect your safety and your legal rights:
- Call 911 for emergencies. The emergency medical responders will provide initial treatment to prevent infections.
- Take photos of your injuries and the dog that bit you. Note the pet’s color, size, breed, unique markings, and the exact location of the incident. Observe and record any conditions that may have contributed to the bite, such as a broken fence or an overly long chain.
- Get the contact details of the dog owner and any witnesses. Their statements may be valuable for your case.
- Keep a detailed record of all your evidence. These details can strengthen your case and help maximize your compensation claim.
- Call the county’s animal services hotline at (951) 358-7387 to report the dog bite attack. You may then file a police complaint to document the incident and the dog’s behavior.
- See a medical specialist to check your injuries further. There are instances where minor bites lead to infections.
- Contact Arash Law. Reach out to a Riverside dog bite attorney to help assess your case and guide you through the process of seeking compensation.
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
Statute Of Limitations For Dog Bite Lawsuits
Dog bite victims generally have two years from the date of their injury to file a lawsuit. This strict time window is known as the statute of limitations. If this limit is reached, the court will most likely dismiss your case, and you may lose your right to claim compensation.
To avoid missing this important deadline, contact our Riverside lawyers, who specialize in dog bite cases. They can guide you through the legal process, gather necessary evidence, and ensure your claim is filed on time. This way, we can preserve your legal rights and strengthen your case.
Don’t let the statute of limitations jeopardize your ability to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Reach out to our attorneys today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.
Statistics About Dog Bites
In recent years, dog bite attacks have become increasingly concerning. A staggering 81 dog bite-related deaths were reported nationwide in 2021. This fatality count is the highest recorded in over a decade.
In 2022, there were nearly 48,600 emergency room visits for dog bite injuries, marking a 70% increase in visit rates since 2005. Although dog bite deaths remain relatively rare, the rates are increasing. Between 2018 and 2022, California recorded 28 fatalities attributed to dog bite attacks, a concerning 70% rise compared to earlier years.
Furthermore, children (ages 0-9) and young adults (ages 20-29) in California are the most likely to visit the emergency room for dog bites, according to a study by public health researchers.
If you’ve sustained a dog bite injury, know that you have rights and may be entitled to compensation. Fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form today. Our experienced Riverside accident lawyers with extensive experience in dog bite cases will review the details of your situation and provide legal options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Dogs To Bite?
Dogs can sometimes behave unpredictably, especially around unfamiliar people. This is why it’s important to approach unknown dogs cautiously and always ask the owner’s permission before interacting with them. Here are some common reasons a dog might bite:
- The dog might be unwell or in pain.
- The dog may react after being startled.
- The dog might feel scared or threatened.
- The dog could be in a high-stress environment.
- The dog may try to protect its owner, puppies, or itself.
By understanding these triggers, you can take steps to avoid potential dangers and lessen the risk of being bitten. Staying alert around dogs can also help you prevent harmful incidents.
However, despite taking all the precautions to prevent attacks, they can still occur. In such situations, call our Riverside dog bite lawyers at (888) 488-1491. We will discuss how we can help you secure the compensation and justice you deserve.
Do Homeowners And Renters Insurance Cover Dog Bites?
Homeowners and renters insurance policies may cover dog bite injuries and other expenses. Typically, dog bite liability coverage ranges between $100,000 and $300,000. However, if the claim exceeds the limit, the dog owner is liable for all additional damages. Call us at (888) 488-1391. Our Riverside lawyers, who specialize in dog bite cases, can answer all your questions and explain this further.
Is It Possible To Submit A Claim If I Was Wounded On The Dog Owner's Property?
Yes, you can file a claim as long as you were lawfully there. California’s strict liability law covers dog bite incidents that happen on both public property and private property where you have legal access. If you’ve been bitten, contact our Riverside dog bite attorneys to help you determine your legal options and pursue compensation.
How Long Will It Take To Resolve My Dog Bite Case?
It depends. Some cases may be settled within a few months, especially if liability is clear and the parties reach an agreement quickly. However, if the case goes to trial or involves complex issues, it could take longer to resolve.
Riverside lawyers who handle dog bite cases will work with you to evaluate your situation and give you an estimated timeline based on the specifics of your case. Contact us now to start your journey toward justice and recovery.
What If The Dog In Question Has A Documented History Of Aggression?
A documented history of aggression can strengthen your case by showing that the dog owner failed to prevent the incident. In such cases, the owner may be held accountable for not addressing a known risk.
Our Riverside lawyers specializing in dog bite cases can help investigate the dog’s history and gather evidence to support your claim. We can hold the owner accountable for failing to take proper safety measures.
How Much Money Can You Get For A Dog Bite?
The amount that you can get in your dog bite case depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and the extent of your emotional distress. Our attorneys can assist you in determining the fair amount of compensation for your claim based on these factors.
In general, the more serious the injury, the higher the potential compensation. For example, if the bite caused long-term medical treatment or loss of income, you may be entitled to higher damages. Our Riverside lawyers, with experience in dog bite cases, can guide you through the legal process and work to secure the best possible outcome.
Call The Dog Bite Lawyers Riverside Relies On For Justice
Dog bites are distressing, and no one should face the aftermath of such an incident alone. If you’re wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” The answer is yes. Arash Law is here to help you.
Under the guidance of the esteemed Arash Khorsandi, Esq., we are committed to securing justice for all of our clients. With our extensive experience in dog bite cases, we promise to work tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum reparation. If a dog bit you, don’t hesitate to call us at 888-488-1491. Our Riverside dog bite lawyers can fight for your rights and ensure you have the strongest chance at a successful outcome.
We help injured victims in Riverside County, including Banning, Beaumont, Blythe, Calimesa, Canyon Lake, Cathedral City, Coachella, Corona, Desert Hot Springs, Eastvale, and Hemet. We also handle a wide range of personal injury claims involving car accidents, Uber collisions, truck crashes, and motorcycle wrecks. Additionally, we represent clients in hit-and-run cases, DUI-related accidents, pedestrian incidents, slip-and-fall incidents, and auto accidents.
