Dog Bite Lawyers in Chino Hills, CA Representing Los Angeles Area Dog Bite Victims
About 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the United States, according to the information presented by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of those, nearly 800,000 required medical care. Most victims of dog bites are children. In 2013, a reported 23 victims died as a result of dog bite injuries. Over half were children.
Dog bites are one of the most common public health problems throughout the country, and this fact holds true in Chino Hills as well. Due to a combination of owner neglect, poor training, and dangerous situations, the data on dog bite cases are not reassuring.
As the weather becomes more pleasant throughout the year and dog owners leave their companions outside more often, the number of dog bites spikes significantly. June is considered to be one of the most dangerous months, with the highest incidence of dog bites.
If a dog bit and injured you or a member of your family, you have a legal right to collect financial compensation for the damages you have suffered. Attorney Eric Paris has more than 20 years of experience helping victims of dog attacks. We seek full compensation for damages, including pain and suffering, lost wages or income, current and future medical bills, property damage caused by the attack, and more.
What are Common Injuries Caused By a Dog Attack?
Dog attacks can cause serious injuries and other conditions, including:
- Puncture wounds
- Infection, including rabies infection
- Scarring
- Broken bones
- Loss of sight or hearing
- Traumatic brain injury from being knocked down
- Psychological conditions, including PTSD
Pit bulls are frequently known to be responsible for dog attacks that cause significant injuries such as these. Injuries to the face, arms, hands, and legs are common. Serious dog bites can require multiple surgeries, including plastic surgery, to repair the damage.
Are Dog Owners Legally Responsible For Damages?
The state of California stands behind dog bite victims. California holds a dog owner strictly liable for damages their dog causes. In a dog bite injury claim, we need to prove only that:
- The defendant owned the dog.
- The dog bit and injured you.
- You were in a public place or lawfully on private property when the dog bite occurred.
It does not matter whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous, whether the dog had bitten anyone previously, or if the dog that bit you was of a dangerous breed. Dog owners and/or those who were caring for the dog at the time of the attack are responsible for damages.
The dog bite injury attorneys at The Paris Law Firm of Chino Hills, California, can explain your legal rights and options. We have extensive experience in dealing with personal injury cases in which a victim was seriously injured by a dog bite.
Are There Exceptions to Strict Liability Laws for Dog Owners?
There are some exceptions to the strict liability of pet owners in California dog bite law. If the dog bite victim was trespassing or in the act of committing a crime at the time the dog attacked, the pet owner may not be held responsible for damages. If the dog was provoked into the attack, the owner may not be liable.
It is important to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Time limits apply for filing a dog bite injury claim.
Why Should I Hire a Dog Bite Attorney to Help Me After a Dog Bite Injury?
From our law offices in Chino Hills, we represent clients injured in dog bite accidents throughout Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County, Orange County, Riverside County, and the rest of California.
When you have been involved in an incident involving a dog attack case, you want a personal injury attorney from Southern CA with the qualifications necessary to hold the negligent party responsible for your injuries. If you or a loved one have been attacked in a public or private place in Chino Hills, CA, contact our law office as soon as possible. Often evidence disappears, and witnesses’ memories fade.
To arrange a free initial consultation and case evaluation, please call The Paris Law Firm at (909) 325-6185 or contact us online to discuss your situation. You will pay no attorney’s fees unless we win money for you for your dog attack case and resulting injuries. Our law firm also represents clients who were injured in attacks by other animals, from cats to horses to exotic pets.