At Ernst Law Group, we are dedicated to helping dog bite victims navigate the aftermath of an attack and seek the compensation they deserve. This comprehensive guide will outline the steps you should take immediately after a dog bite, discuss your legal options, and provide important information on California laws related to dog bites.
If you or a loved one have been attacked, contact our San Luis Obispo dog bite injury lawyer at (805) 541-0300.
Immediate steps to take after a dog bite
1. Seek medical attention immediately
The first and most important step after a dog bite is to seek medical attention, even if the injury seems minor. Dog bites can lead to serious infections, nerve damage, and other complications, so a healthcare professional must evaluate and treat the wound properly.
- First aid – Before heading to the doctor, clean the wound with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection. Apply an antiseptic, and cover the wound with a clean bandage.
- Medical evaluation – The doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. They may also administer a tetanus shot if necessary and evaluate the need for stitches or other medical treatment. Rabies vaccinations may sometimes be required if the dog’s vaccination status is unknown.
2. Document the incident
Documentation is key to protecting your legal rights if you pursue a claim. Gather as much information as possible about the incident, including:
- Photos of the wound – Take clear photos of your injuries from multiple angles immediately after the bite and as they heal over time.
- Details about the dog – Try to obtain information about the dog’s owner, vaccination history, and any prior history of aggressive behavior. If the dog is a stray, try to get a description of the animal and note the location of the attack.
- Witness statements – If anyone witnessed the attack, get their contact information and ask them to provide a statement about what they saw.
3. Report the incident to authorities
Reporting the dog bite to your local animal control or law enforcement agency is important. In California, reporting a dog bite helps authorities track potentially dangerous animals and ensures that the dog is properly quarantined and tested for rabies if necessary.
- Animal control – Contact your local animal control agency to report the bite. They may investigate whether the dog poses a continued risk to the community.
- Police report – In some cases, especially if the bite was severe or the dog acted aggressively, you may also want to file a police report.
4. Consult with a dog bite attorney
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, consulting with an experienced dog bite attorney can help you understand your legal options and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. At Ernst Law Group, we can guide you through filing a claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and pursuing legal action if necessary.
- Free consultation – We offer a free consultation to discuss the details of your case and advise you on the best course of action.
- Legal representation – Our attorneys can represent you in negotiations or court, working to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages you’ve incurred as a result of the dog bite.
Understanding California dog bite laws
California has specific laws that hold dog owners accountable for their pets’ actions. Understanding these laws is essential for anyone bitten by a dog in the state.
California’s strict liability law
Under California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog has shown prior aggression or if the owner was negligent. This means that the owner is responsible for the victim’s injuries if a dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property.
- No “one bite” rule – Unlike some states, California does not have a “one bite” rule, which means that a dog owner can be held liable for the first bite, even if the dog has never bitten anyone.
Potential defenses
While California’s strict liability law favors victims, there are some defenses that a dog owner might raise:
- Trespassing – If the victim was trespassing on private property when the bite occurred, the dog owner may not be liable.
- Provocation – If the dog was provoked or teased into biting, the owner may argue that they should not be held responsible for the resulting injuries.
Contact us for a free consultation
Ernst Law Group offers free consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Whether you need help with medical bills, lost wages, or other damages, our team is ready to fight for your rights. Contact us online or call (805) 541-0300 to schedule your free consultation today.
