Dog bites are more common than many people think — and they can lead to serious physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Whether you were bitten while walking in your neighborhood or visiting someone’s home, it’s important to understand your legal rights and the steps you should take after a dog bite.
California Law and Dog Bite Liability
In California, dog owners are held strictly liable for bites. That means if a dog bites someone — even if it’s the first time and the dog has never shown aggression before — the owner is typically responsible for the victim’s damages. It doesn’t matter whether the bite occurred on public property or while lawfully on private property.
This type of case falls under the broader category of common types of personal injury accidents, and dog bites are taken seriously by both the law and insurance companies.
The only exceptions are if the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or engaging in criminal activity at the time of the bite.
What to Do If You’ve Been Bitten by a Dog
If you’ve been bitten, your health and safety come first:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if the bite seems minor. Dog bites can lead to infections and long-term complications.
- Identify the dog and its owner. Get names, contact info, and, if possible, proof of rabies vaccination.
- Document everything. Take pictures of your injuries, the location, and the dog if safe to do so. Keep all medical records, receipts, and related paperwork.
- Report the incident to local animal control or the police.
- Speak with a personal injury attorney to protect your rights and understand your legal options.
How Negligence Plays a Role
Even though California applies strict liability in dog bite cases, negligence can still play an important role — especially in cases where an owner failed to secure a dangerous animal or violated local leash laws. Understanding what negligence means in a personal injury case can help you determine whether you have a strong claim.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Victims of dog bites may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and trauma
- Scarring or disfigurement
Let Berkovich Law Firm Help
At Berkovich Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming a dog bite injury can be. From dealing with the trauma to navigating insurance claims, you don’t have to do it alone. We’ll guide you through every step, investigate thoroughly, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation — your recovery starts with the right legal team by your side.