Dog Bite Defense

The bond between a dog and their human is as strong as any family relationship. In California, nearly half of all households have one or more dogs, with an estimated 5.3 million pet dogs in Los Angeles County alone. Along with the joys of dog ownership, however, comes significant legal responsibility, especially when it comes to dog bite incidents. 

Our office represents individuals and families throughout California who are facing claims arising from dog bites and other animal-related injuries. Whether the incident occurred at your residence, or elsewhere, or involved a dog owned by a family member, tenant, guest, or visitor, we provide experienced legal guidance to protect your rights and interests.

Understanding California’s Strict Liability Law For Dog Bite Cases

California enforces strict liability statutes for dog bite incidents. This means dog owners are held legally responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether the dog has shown prior aggression. Victims can pursue compensation for medical bills, pain, and suffering. Furthermore, dog bites must be reported to animal control, which may initiate proceedings to declare a dog dangerous or even seek its removal.

Understanding California’s Premises Liability Law For Dog Bite Cases

Dog bite incidents can expose dog owners, homeowners, landlords, and property owners to significant legal and financial liability under general negligence principles, including premises liability. A plaintiff may have a viable negligence claim if they can demonstrate that

1. A dangerous condition, such as a dog with vicious propensity (a history of aggression or dangerous tendencies), existed on the property where the incident took place;
2. The homeowner knew or should have known about the dog with vicious propensity;
3. The homeowner failed to fix or warn about the dog in a timely manner;
4. The dog directly caused the plaintiff’s injuries.

Evidence may include video footage, photos, incident reports, medical records, as well as the parties’ testimony.

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a California Dog Bite Case?

In California, dog bite incident victims may claim compensation for several types of damages, including:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Rehabilitation or therapy costs
• Permanent scarring or disfigurement

Potential Defenses in dog bite cases

Each dog bite case is different and the outcome will depend on the specific circumstances and applicable laws.  In general, certain legal defenses or mitigating factors may be available in dog bite cases including:

• Trespassing on private premises
• Provocation of the dog
• No prior knowledge of the dog’s vicious propensity
• The presence of safeguards or warnings 
• Assumption of Risk (e.g. The Veterinarian’s Rule)

Contact The Law Offices of Ali Taheripour

At The Law Offices of Ali Taheripour, we understand the complex legal issues that can arise in California dog bite litigation. Our team can help evaluate your situation and explain your legal options under California law. We assist clients with insurance coverage issues, claim investigations, pre-litigation negotiations, and court proceedings. Our goal is to help clients navigate complex California dog bite laws, and achieve the most favorable resolution possible. If you have been contacted by an injured party, an insurance company, or an attorney regarding a dog bite claim, we are available to evaluate your situation and discuss your legal options.

Contact our office today to discuss your case and learn how California dog bite laws may apply to your circumstances.