Moreno Valley Dog Bite Lawyer

About 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of those, nearly 800,000 require medical care. Most dog bite victims are children. Millions of people are bitten by dogs every year. In 2013, a reported 23 people died from dog bites. Over half were children, and many of these events occurred on the family’s property. These statistics are difficult to accept.

If a dog bit and injured you or a member of your family in Moreno Valley, 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 dog bite victims. Our team of skilled dog bite attorneys understands the complexities involved in dog bite cases and the importance of professional legal assistance. 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.

The Paris Firm Wins $100,000 Settlement for Dog Bite Claim

Our Client was at work when she was attacked by a dog which bit her arm so hard that it crushed the bone. After the insurance company purposely delayed, the case settled for the entire homeowners insurance policy the day after we destroyed the defendant in deposition.

Dog bite cases often involve complex legal proceedings related to injuries caused by dog bites, highlighting the importance of experienced attorneys in navigating these challenges.

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

Injuries to the face, arms, hands, and legs are common. Serious dog bites can require multiple surgeries, including plastic surgery, to repair the damage.

Understanding Dog Bite Laws in California

California Law and Dog Bite Liability

In California, dog owners are held to a strict liability standard for dog bites. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner is liable for the injuries, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or not. The law applies to dog bites that occur in public places or on private property, as long as the victim was lawfully present on the property.

California’s strict liability law for dog bites is outlined in California Civil Code Section 3342, which states that the owner of a dog is liable for damages if the dog bites someone, unless the victim was trespassing or provoked the dog. This law is designed to hold dog owners accountable for their pets’ actions and to provide compensation to victims of dog bites.

In addition to strict liability, California law also requires dog owners to take reasonable steps to prevent their dogs from biting people. This includes keeping the dog on a leash, providing adequate training and socialization, and taking steps to prevent the dog from escaping from the property.

If a dog owner fails to take these steps and their dog bites someone, they may be liable for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may also be available if the dog owner was grossly negligent or reckless in their handling of the dog.

Dog Owners Are Legally Responsible for Damages

The state of California stands behind dog bite victims. California holds dog owners strictly liable for damages their dogs cause. In dog bite claims, 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 dog’s 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.

Dog Bite Injuries and Compensation

Types of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor scratches to serious and life-threatening wounds. Some common types of dog bite injuries include:

Lacerations and puncture wounds
Broken bones and fractures
Head and facial injuries
Neck and spinal cord injuries
Emotional and psychological trauma

In addition to physical injuries, dog bites can also cause emotional and psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The impact of a dog bite can be long-lasting, affecting a victim’s quality of life and ability to work.

Victims of dog bites may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. This can include coverage for medical expenses, lost wages due to time off work, and compensation for pain and suffering. In severe cases, victims may also seek compensation for ongoing medical treatment and psychological counseling.

If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog bite, it is crucial to seek legal advice to understand your rights and the compensation you may be entitled to.

Do I Need an Attorney for My Moreno Valley Dog Bite Claim?

If you or a family member has suffered a serious injury or wrongful death due to a dog attack in Moreno Valley, California, you have the right to obtain financial compensation for the damages you’ve suffered. Hiring a knowledgeable and experienced dog bite lawyer is crucial to navigate the complexities of your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Dog bite lawsuits can cover various types of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. It is also essential to seek immediate medical attention after a dog bite to prevent serious complications and ensure proper treatment. Our firm specializes in personal injury cases, providing expert legal representation for victims of dog bites and other incidents.

Call The Paris Firm today at (909) 551-4040 and schedule a no obligation consultation. If there is no recovery there is no fee and there are no up-front out of pocket fees. Our firm advances costs on behalf of our clients.