If a dog bites you, the owner is responsible
A dog bite can happen anywhere and to anyone. Whether you are the owner of a dog or have been bitten by a dog, it is important to be aware of California’s “Strict Liability” dog bite statute. This statute states that a dog owner cannot escape liability of a dog bite by claiming he or she had no idea the dog would act aggressively.
We can help you take action!
At Pena Law, we handle every dog bite injury on a case-by-case basis. We understand the emotional and physical trauma a dog bite or dog attack can leave on a client, and we are determined to help you recover any and all medical and personal damages that you might have incurred from a dog bite injury.
What should I do if I suffer a dog bite?
If you are bitten by a dog in California, you need to prove that you were in a public place or lawfully in a private place when the bite occurred. But remember, there can be mitigated factors that decrease the liability of the owner and this is based on your personal actions when the bite occurred. Let’s say, you taunted the dog, took the dog’s muzzle off or let it out of its cage, then you assumed the risk and liability can be lessened from the owner.
Additionally from proving the location of the incident, you also have to prove damage. If you did not require medical treatment, you might not have a case. It is important to contact an attorney to get all your legal questions answered and to determine if you have a dog bite case.
Time is of the Essence
Just like any other personal injury claim, a dog bite claim must be filed within the statute of limitations. In California the statute of limitations for a dog bite claim is two years from the date of the dog bite or attack.