A dog bite can ruin your day, possibly leaving you with permanent wounds and scarring, whether you’re visiting a friend or strolling down a public street. California has strict responsibility regulations for dog bites, making pet owners liable for any injuries or property damage caused by a dog bite. Whether or not the dog had a history of biting or viciousness, victims may nonetheless bring a claim against the owner. Even if they made an effort to stop the animal’s dangerous conduct, the owner is nonetheless responsible.
What Damages Can You Seek for a Dog Bite?
Dog bite victims have the right to file a lawsuit in order to recover money to cover their legal costs. This extends beyond only covering the victim’s medical expenses. In some circumstances, the judgement or settlement will be paid for by the dog owner’s insurance provider. It frequently requires the legal counsel of a personal injury attorney to recover the full sum.
Victims who are bitten by dogs suffer legal repercussions. Legal damages for a victim comprise:
- medical costs;
- missed pay;
- lost earning potential; and,
- if the injury is sufficiently incapacitating to result in a setback in one’s career,
- In addition to physical suffering, emotional anguish, loss of companionship for the victim’s family and loved ones, and material harm
What is the Average Settlement for a Dog Bite in California?
Two of the top house insurance companies, Triple-I and State Farm, claim that dog-related settlements from homeowners cost close to $900M in 2021 alone. With 17,989 dog bite claims submitted, the average cost per claim was $49,025. The state with the most instances, 2,026 totaling $120.7M in damages with an average value of $59,561 was California.
Does Insurance Cover Dog Bites?
A dog owner has the option of purchasing insurance that would cover a dog bite wound. Many dog owners decide against having dog bite insurance since the “opt-in” option results in higher homeowners’ and renters’ insurance costs. A “dangerous” breed, such as pit bulls, huskies, German shepherds, and Dobermans, will increase the cost of insurance, and the owner may not be qualified for coverage due to the breed.
What Do You Need to Prove in a Dog Bite Case?
Only those who were bitten by the dog in a public area or a legitimately private location are eligible to file a claim for damages. Anyone acting in the course of their official business, such as mail carriers and delivery staff, has a legitimate right to be on private property. If a dog grabs someone by the skin with its teeth but does not cause a skin break, a dog bite claim may be made.
Conditions in some circumstances bar dog bite victims from suing the owner. Unless they were an innocent victim not associated with the suspected or alleged crime, anyone bit by a police or military dog when the dog was carrying out their duties with law enforcement or defending someone was not eligible to bring a claim. If the dog bites a veterinarian or veterinary assistant while they are providing care, they cannot file a complaint against the owner.
The comparative negligence law of California applies to dog bite wounds. Your damages would be lessened by the amount you are held responsible for the incident if the animal attacked because you were pushing or prodding it before the assault.
How Can We Help?
It is important to contact our attorney to guide you through this process rather than dealing with the dog owner or attempting to represent yourself in a dog bite case. Our attorneys know how to prove liability and which damages are appropriate.
How to Sue for a Dog Bite in California?
If you’ve been injured by a dog bite, you can sue for a dog bite in California to recover compensation for your medical costs, pain and suffering, and other damages. California law holds dog owners strictly liable for bites, meaning you don’t have to prove negligence. To maximize your claim, document your injuries, gather evidence, and consult with a personal injury lawyer experienced in dog bite cases. Understanding your rights and the legal process can help you secure the compensation you deserve.