Expert Attorneys in Matters Involving Dog Bites

If you, a member of your family, or a friend suffer a dog bite, you have rights under the law to recover costs and receive damages. You may be able to receive compensation from the dog owner, the dog owner’s landlord, or possibly even your insurance company.

California dog bite law

California law holds dog owners 100% liable when their dog bites a person, even if the dog does not have a history of vicious behavior. California Civil Code Section 3342 provides:

“The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness.”

The statute makes dog owners 100% liable when their dog bites another person. This liability only applies to the dog’s owner, not just someone who harbors or keeps the animal. For example, if a person purchased the dog, paid for its license, and was often seen walking the dog, they would likely qualify as the dog’s owner and would be 100% liable when the dog bites another person. Furthermore, 100% liability under the statute only applies to biting injuries. Even if the bite does not break the skin, however, the dog owner is still liable under the statute for any pain or damage resulting from the bite.

How to begin your personal injury case for dog bite or willful violence

If you have been the victim of a dog bite or a willful violence injury, you may be entitled to reimbursement for your medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for your pain and suffering.

Personal injury attorneys at Adams & Corzine have a great deal of experience representing victims of dog bites throughout the greater Sacramento region.