Dog Bite Attorney in Los Angeles

Legal Assistance for Dog Bite Victims in Southern California

Every year in the United States, nearly 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs. About a fifth of those bites require medical treatment, and in 2012, more than 25,000 dog bite victims needed reconstructive surgery. Dogs of all types cause these injuries—even when they do not have a history of aggression or biting. Often, the dog bite victim is simply doing his or her job.

A large percentage of dog bite victims include postal workers, delivery people, and others whose jobs require them to be outdoors or to enter a private resident’s yard or home. Anytime your job calls you to enter someone else’s property, you can be at risk for a dog bite injury.

At Law Offices of Ali Taheripour, we encourage you to avoid approaching a strange dog and to be cautious even around familiar dogs if the owners are not present or available to help. Dogs are protective animals and may act on instinct if they perceive a threat to their territory, which can result in an attack or bite.

California imposes strict liability on dog owners, which means that you do not need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. If you suffered a dog bite in Los Angeles, you have legal rights to pursue compensation for your injuries, regardless of the dog's previous behavior. Local ordinances, such as leash laws in Los Angeles County, are enforced to reduce these incidents. Violations can strengthen your claim if the attack occurred while the owner failed to comply with these local requirements.

If you were bitten by a dog while minding your own business or on the job, contact our dog bite attorneys at (818) 629-1121 for a consultation regarding your legal options.

Understanding California Dog Bite Laws

In Southern California, dog owners are responsible for making sure their pets do not harm others. You may also be able to hold a dog owner liable if you can show the owner acted negligently, such as by letting the dog roam in an unfenced area. If a dog has a known history of acting aggressively toward strangers, including postal workers or delivery people, but the owner allows the dog in the front yard without a leash, that owner is being negligent. If the dog bites or attacks you while performing your job duties, you may be able to hold the dog owner liable for your damages.

California Civil Code Section 3342 covers dog bite liability. Under this law, dog owners are held accountable if their dogs bite someone in a public place—or lawfully in a private place—regardless of the dog's past behavior. In Los Angeles, strict enforcement of local animal control ordinances helps reduce the risk of attacks, but dog bite claims frequently arise when owners fail to follow these regulations. Victims in Los Angeles often have to navigate both state law and local rules when seeking compensation, so working with an attorney familiar with the region is important. Los Angeles also tracks the number of reported bites annually, and city data can sometimes support a case by showing patterns in specific neighborhoods or with certain breeds. Understanding these legal frameworks can help strengthen your position when filing a claim.

Steps to Take When Encountering a Dog

If you encounter an unrestrained dog or a dog that acts aggressively, prioritize your safety. Never approach a dog that is growling, barking, or displaying aggression. Do not approach any dog if the owner is not present, as even a dog that appears calm may become territorial.

If you come upon a dog that could be a threat, follow these steps:

• If the dog is loose, contact the local animal control department and your employer.
• Do not approach any unfamiliar dog, and use caution even when approaching dogs you know.
• Do not provoke the dog—avoid yelling, kicking, throwing items at the dog, or backing it into a corner.
• Never mistreat, tease, or abuse any dog you encounter, whether restrained or unrestrained.
• Avoid dogs that are tied up, contained in a yard, eating, barking, growling, behaving aggressively, or with puppies.
• If a dog barks, growls, snarls, or acts aggressively toward you, retreat quickly and calmly to a safe place.
• If possible, look for the owner in the area. Remain calm and alert the owner that the dog is loose or acting aggressively, without escalating the situation.

When a dog attack occurs in Los Angeles, authorities recommend reporting the incident to local animal control within 24 hours. Prompt reporting helps ensure the dog's vaccination records are checked and may prevent future attacks. The Los Angeles Department of Animal Services investigates dog bites to track dangerous dogs and enforce local ordinances. Employers in the area often have protocols for documenting these incidents, especially for workers delivering mail or packages across different neighborhoods.

Unfortunately, even when you act with caution, people still experience dog bites. If you are bitten:

• Immediately move to a safe location and seek medical care for your injuries.
• Report the incident to your employer if needed and file a report with the appropriate authorities.
• Keep all information related to the incident, such as medical bills and the dog owner’s contact details.
• Contact an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and pursue potential compensation.

If you need emergency medical attention after a bite, Los Angeles County hospitals and clinics can treat these injuries and document their extent. Preserve all medical records and communications, as injury documentation forms a critical part of your potential case. When speaking with animal control or seeking medical help, describe the incident clearly, including the dog’s appearance, the exact location of the attack, and any witnesses.

Statute of Limitations & Filing Deadlines in Los Angeles

If you suffered a dog bite in Los Angeles, act quickly to protect your rights. California law gives injury victims two years from the date of a dog bite to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline usually means losing the chance to recover damages. Some situations can shorten or extend your filing window, such as if a government agency is involved because the attack took place on public property. In those cases, special shorter deadlines may apply. Promptly gathering records, photographs, witness details, and medical documentation helps build a stronger claim. If you have questions about how much time you have left, reach out for a case evaluation to get guidance specific to your situation from a dog bite attorney in Los Angeles.

Common Dog Bite Injuries & Financial Recovery

Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, from puncture wounds to lasting scars. In Los Angeles, injuries often include infections, nerve damage, torn muscles, broken bones, and emotional trauma, especially for children. Some victims need reconstructive surgery or ongoing medical care. Recovery may also include time away from work, rehabilitation, or treatment for anxiety or post-traumatic stress. Financial recovery after a dog attack can include compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and future costs related to ongoing treatment. When filing a claim, documentation—including medical bills and proof of missed work—can strengthen your case. California’s strict liability law allows victims to pursue compensation, regardless of whether the dog has a history of biting.

The Legal Process for Dog Bite Claims in Los Angeles

Navigating a dog bite claim in Los Angeles involves several steps. Most victims start by seeking medical attention and reporting the incident to animal control or the proper authority. After gathering documents—such as medical records, photographs, and witness statements—the next step usually involves notifying the dog’s owner about the claim. California law expects owners to take responsibility, but insurance companies often get involved and may dispute liability or damages. Retaining legal counsel can help victims understand the claims process, deal with insurers, and track local ordinances that could impact the outcome. While most claims settle before trial, some require court hearings in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. If a case proceeds this far, local court rules, timelines, and procedures apply. Working with a law firm based in Los Angeles can make the process smoother by leveraging familiarity with area courts, adjusters, and local animal control agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do if I Am Bitten by a Dog in Los Angeles?

After a dog bite, seek medical attention immediately and report the incident to Los Angeles Animal Services. Document your injuries with photos, track your expenses, and get the contact information of the dog’s owner and any witnesses. These steps create a solid foundation for a potential claim.

Who Pays for My Dog Bite Injuries in Los Angeles?

In many Los Angeles dog bite cases, the dog owner's homeowners' or renters' insurance covers damages. Some owners may not have insurance, so recovery depends on the specific situation. Consulting an attorney can clarify your options for compensation through insurance or other avenues.

How Long Does the Dog Bite Claims Process Take?

The timeline varies based on the severity of the injury, insurance negotiations, and whether your case settles or proceeds to court. Some claims resolve within a few months, while more complex cases may take a year or longer if litigation is required. Early action and documentation often help speed up the process.