Dogs bite more than 5 million Americans each year and many of these incidents could have been prevented if owners had taken proper precautions to protect others in their community. In California, dog owners are held legally responsible for any injuries or damages caused by their pets. This strict liability law ensures that victims of dog bites have a clear path to seek justice and compensation for their suffering.
Dog bites can leave lasting scars—both physical and emotional. A serious attack can lead to extensive medical treatment, permanent disfigurement, and even a lifelong fear of dogs. When a dog displays aggressive behavior, its owner has a responsibility to prevent it from causing harm. Failing to take appropriate action puts others at risk, and the law recognizes this negligence by holding the owner accountable for the damage caused.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our experienced legal team is here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you take the first step toward justice.
How Ernst Law Group Can Help
At Ernst Law Group, we bring over 35 years of experience to helping dog bite victims recover the compensation they deserve. Our seasoned attorneys understand the challenges victims face, from mounting medical bills to emotional trauma, and we are here to provide expert guidance every step of the way.
We start by thoroughly investigating the incident, gathering evidence such as medical records, witness statements, and any history of the dog’s aggression to build a strong case on your behalf. With a deep understanding of California’s strict liability laws, we know how to hold negligent dog owners accountable and maximize your recovery.
Our team is skilled in negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement that covers all your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If a settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for your rights.
With decades of experience and a proven track record of success, you can trust us to advocate fiercely on your behalf.
What Happens in a Dog Bite Case?
Dog bites and attacks can result in a wide range of injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Disfigurement
- Maiming
- Permanent, severe scarring
- Other Trauma
If you have been the victim of a dog bite, you are entitled to compensation from the dog’s owner. This compensation is paid by either the owner himself or his insurance company. While the emotional trauma caused by a bite is not simply repaired by money, we do know not having to worry about how you will pay your new medical bills will be a relief.
Besides medical bills, compensation may also cover emotional damage, lost wages, and other costs.
What’s the Basis of a Claim?
Unfortunately, not every victim of a dog bite receives compensation for their injury. Obviously, if the dog has no owner, you cannot claim compensation. But there are other less obvious stipulations at play as well. These include:
- The dog’s history
- If the owner’s carelessness caused the injury
- If the owner was obeying local leash laws
- Whether you were trespassing on the property, resulting in the attack
These are just a few of the many factors that will be evaluated in your dog bite case. These sorts of personal injury cases often get quite complex. As such, it is best to have a highly qualified attorney by your side to fight for you.
What Kinds of Compensation Can You Receive in a Dog Bite Case?
Victims of dog bites often face a wide range of financial, physical, and emotional challenges, and California law allows you to pursue compensation to address these damages. The specific types of compensation you may be entitled to include the following.
Medical Expenses
This includes both current and future medical costs related to the injury, such as emergency care, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any necessary reconstructive procedures.
Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for the income you’ve lost during your recovery. In cases of long-term or permanent injuries, you may also recover damages for reduced earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
Dog bites can cause significant physical pain as well as emotional and psychological distress. Compensation for pain and suffering accounts for the toll the injury takes on your quality of life, including fear, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Scarring and Disfigurement
Victims often face permanent scarring or disfigurement that affects their appearance and self-esteem. Compensation can be awarded for the lasting impact of these injuries.
Emotional Trauma
Being attacked by a dog can leave lasting emotional scars, such as a fear of dogs or difficulty feeling safe in public spaces. Compensation can address these intangible but very real damages.
Other Related Costs
This may include property damage (such as torn clothing or damaged belongings) or additional out-of-pocket expenses caused by the attack.
Statute of Limitations
As with any other kind of personal injury, you have a set amount of time in which you can bring a claim. In the State of California, this statute of limitations is two years, according to the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1. There is an addendum that states if you discovered the injury after the incident, the statute of limitations is one year after discovery. However, this is highly unlikely in a dog bite case.
Contact Ernst Law Group and Take Action Now
If you have been the victim of a dog attack, do not wait to take legal action. Dog bites often result in very serious injuries that require medical care and, in many cases, time away from work. The attorneys at Ernst Law Group have a long history of successfully representing clients in all kinds of personal injury cases.
Our goal is to make sure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait; give us a call for your free consultation today.
Resources for Dog Bite Victims
Medical Resources
- Dignity Health – French Hospital Medical Center
- 1911 Johnson Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Public Service
- San Luis Obispo Police Department
- 1042 Walnut St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Legal Help
- Ernst Law Group
- 1020 Palm St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
- Phone: (805) 541-0300
