Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite in California? If you have serious injuries and losses from a dog bite, you should seek legal representation from a Sacramento dog bite lawyer.
In all cases, the dog’s owner should take every step possible to safeguard others and avoid any risks to those passing by or coming close to the dog. That does not always happen. If you are hurt, you may be wondering what your next steps should be.
A Lawyer Can Help Secure Damages for Serious Injuries
If you have serious injuries from a dog bite or attack, hiring an attorney provides you with critical support and the ability to recover fair compensation. These injuries typically require a higher level of compensation to ensure you can continue to pay for any medical costs and ongoing losses you have.
If you had any of these injuries, we strongly encourage you to talk to an attorney before you settle your case:
- Traumatic brain injuries from striking your head in a fall
- Severe lacerations that require stitches
- Broken bones requiring surgery
- Soft tissue injuries with lasting impact
- Spinal cord injuries and damage
- Internal organ injuries
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Amputation of digits or limbs
- Complications during healing, including infections
Your lawyer will help you to demonstrate the extent of your injuries and losses. Because you may need ongoing medical care, healthcare support, and cosmetic procedures, having a lawyer ensures you seek enough compensation to make this type of care possible.
With expert resources available to them, your Sacramento personal injury lawyer will be able to make a clear case for what your accident is worth.
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(916) 500-0000California Attorneys Know the Local Dog Bite Laws
California is a strict liability state for dog bite injuries. This means that the owner is responsible for the dog and held accountable for the victim’s injuries.
This applies even in situations where the dog had not previously displayed aggressive behavior or the owner had no prior knowledge of the dog’s propensity for aggression. There are several other California dog bite laws to consider:
- A person bitten by the dog cannot have done anything to engage with the dog in such a way as to encourage an attack or provoke the animal.
- Police and military dogs acting as a component of their job are not subject to this rule, meaning you cannot sue the government if such a dog bites you while it is working.
- Owners must keep their dogs leashed, although specific leash laws vary by city. The owner must maintain control over the dog.
If you are hurt as a result of a dog bite or dog attack, prioritize getting medical care first. Then, seek the guidance of a dog bite lawyer before you seek compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance policy. Doing so helps you demonstrate maximum compensation in your case.
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(916) 500-0000 A Lawyer Can Help Settle Disputes Over Fault
Another situation that warrants support from a lawyer in California after a dog bite is when there is a dispute over fault. If the dog’s owner accuses you of being at fault or their insurance company denies compensation because they blame you, having a lawyer becomes a core component of your strategy for recovering damages.
In California, comparative negligence laws allow you to recover damages even if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident.
The amount of compensation owed to you will be reduced by the percentage of fault the insurance company, police, or judge applies to your role in the accident. Keeping this as low as possible is essential.
California law allows you to seek compensation even if you are found over 51% at fault. However, because of how much this can reduce the compensation you receive, we always encourage you to let our lawyer work to eliminate any fault designation to you. Doing so amplifies the amount of compensation paid to you.
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(916) 500-0000 Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer if You Have Catastrophic Losses
Some of the most devastating dog bites cause people to suffer incredible injuries that simply do not heal. You may be facing a lifetime of complications and needs for medical care, cosmetic treatment, and in-home support.
When you have catastrophic injuries like this, hiring a dog bite lawyer in California can help you see all potential avenues for compensation recovery. If you have any of the following injuries, hire a lawyer before you settle your case:
- Traumatic brain injuries resulting in loss of cognitive function
- Paralysis from spinal cord injuries
- Loss of vision or hearing
- Chronic pain development that is debilitating
- Permanent disfigurement from scars that impact emotional well-being
The level of compensation owed to you in permanent injury cases like this depends on the way it impacts your future. Factors such as the impact on relationships, your ability to work, and quality of life must be taken into consideration before any award of compensation is considered. Read our FAQs to learn more about dog bites.
Your Attorney Can File a Lawsuit on Your Behalf
In most situations, the dog’s owner will have home insurance that provides liability coverage for dog bites. In most cases, your lawyer will work to build a claim for you, negotiate fair compensation from the insurance company, and then settle it out of court.
In situations where the insurance company is not willing to settle your case for any reason or denies your right to compensation, you may need to seek action in a court of law. In these situations, having a skilled dog bite lawyer in California becomes beneficial to you.
Your lawyer will work to build a strong case for you and work to demonstrate your losses with evidence and clarity. This could provide you with the compensation you deserve to rebuild your life. Even if your claim is denied, do not simply walk away. Find out if your attorney feels you can seek a claim in court.
Seek a Free Consultation From a Lawyer for a Dog Bite in California
You likely need a lawyer for a dog bite accident in California if you have serious injuries. Most lawyers will provide you with a free consultation to find out what they can do for you.
Talk to the team at Triumph Law about your case today.