Salinas Dog Bite Lawyers

California Dog Bite Laws: Strict Liability

California is a strict liability state for dog bites. This law means that dog owners are typically responsible for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression.

Unlike states with one-bite laws, California does not require victims to prove the dog’s owner knew the animal was dangerous. However, there are specific exceptions to strict liability that you need to be aware of.

• Trespassing. If the victim was trespassing on the dog owner’s property, strict liability does not apply.
• Provocation. Owners may not be liable if the victim provoked or harassed the dog.
• Veterinary and kennel workers. Individuals working with animals professionally assume some risk. Such individuals cannot sue for strict liability but may file a negligence claim.
• Caretakers. Non-owners caring for a dog can also be held liable for negligence. However, they would not be held to the strict liability standard.
• Law enforcement dogs. Military or police dogs are exempt if they were performing their duties when the bite occurred.

Understanding these nuances can be complex. The Salinas dog bite attorneys at Silva Injury Law can help you determine how these laws apply to your situation.

What Happens After a Dog Bite in Salinas?

If a dog bite occurs, California law requires the dog to be quarantined for up to 10 days to monitor for rabies or other diseases. The dog can often remain with its owner during the quarantine. However, more severe incidents may require the dog to be held at an animal control facility.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, some of which require long-term medical care. Common injuries include:

• Puncture wounds,
• Lacerations,
• Fractured bones,
• Torn ligaments,
• Nerve damage,
• Disfiguring scars,
• Infections, and
• Traumatic amputations.

In addition to these injuries, victims may suffer psychological trauma, including fear and anxiety related to future dog encounters. If you or a loved one have sustained any of these injuries, contact a dog bite lawyer in Salinas today.

What Compensation Is Available for Dog Bite Victims?

Victims of dog bites may be entitled to both economic and noneconomic damages. These damages help cover the financial and emotional costs of a dog bite injury.

Economic damages are those losses that are tangible and quantifiable because there is an associated financial loss. Examples of economic damages include:

• Medical expenses, including things like hospital stays, surgeries, medications, etc.;
• Lost wages due to missed work;
• Rehabilitation costs; and
• Future medical expenses or long-term care.

Noneconomic damages include compensation for intangible losses, such as:

• Pain and suffering,
• Emotional distress,
• Psychological trauma from disfigurement, and
• Loss of enjoyment of life.

At Silva Injury Law, our Salinas dog bite lawyers work diligently to calculate and pursue the maximum compensation for your losses.

How to Document a Dog Bite Incident

Proper documentation is critical to building a strong case. Here’s what you should do if a dog has bitten you:

1. Gather information—collect the dog owner’s name, address, and phone number;
2. Take photos—document your injuries, the dog, and the location of the incident;
3. Report the incident—file a report with local animal control and law enforcement;
4. Seek medical attention—visit a doctor immediately and keep all medical records; and
5. Research Salinas dog bite law firms—a skilled dog bite lawyer can guide you through the claims process.

Even though California is a strict liability state, it’s crucial to build a strong case to maximize your potential compensation.

Why Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer in Salinas?

Not all personal injury attorneys are experienced in handling dog bite cases. Dog bite claims involve unique legal and procedural complexities that require first-hand knowledge.

By hiring an experienced dog bite lawyer in Salinas, you’ll have someone who understands California’s strict liability laws.

Contact a Salinas Dog Bite Lawyer at Silva Injury Law Today

At Silva Injury Law, we pride ourselves on compassionate advocacy for our clients and fierce opposition to those who try to deny them justice.

If you’ve been injured by a dog bite, don’t wait to seek legal help. Our team of dedicated Salinas dog bite lawyers is ready to help you navigate your claim and fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.

We have decades of combined experience assisting injured victims throughout California. Contact Silva Injury Law today to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help.