Dog Bite Injuries

Common Injuries in California Dog Bite Cases

When a dog attacks and bites a person, the likelihood of injury is extremely high. Young children and older adults are especially susceptible to serious injuries suffered from a dog bite attack. Potential injuries that may occur when a dog attacks a person include lacerations, puncture wounds, infections, contusions, fractures, and, in the worst cases, the need for an amputation.

Moreover, when many of these types of injuries occur, the dog bite victim may be left with an unsightly scar on his or her body that causes the victim shame or embarrassment. In addition, individuals who are bitten by dogs, especially young children, may suffer severe emotional distress or mental anguish as a result of the attack. In the case of small children, a dog bite may haunt them for the rest of their lifetimes, and they may develop a fear of dogs as they grow older.

Strict Liability in California

California follows the rule of strict liability in dog bite cases. This means that when a dog bites a human being and injures that person, the dog’s owner can be held liable regardless of fault. In other words, after a bite, dog owners are almost always required to compensate victims for any losses they sustained as a result of the attack.

Recoverable Damages in Dog Bite Cases

If you have suffered injuries as a result of a dog bite, you may be entitled to compensation. Potential damages may include payment of related past and future medical bills, including mental health expenses. You may also be able to recover for your lost past and future wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other related expenses.