Compensation After a Dog Bite or Attack
Dog attacks affect people of all age groups. Dog bite incidents cause severe injuries that may require emergency treatment‚ stitches or even cosmetic surgery. In addition to physical injuries‚ dog attacks can result in severe emotional and psychological trauma for victims. Disfigurement and scarring can be permanent‚ which can add to victims’ trauma. The cost of treatment and care for victims can add up very quickly.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack‚ please contact the experienced Chula Vista personal injury attorneys at the Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers to find out how we can help you. We can help you seek and obtain compensation for all your injuries‚ damages and losses and hold the negligent dog owner accountable.
Dog Bite Laws in Chula Vista
California is a statutory strict liability state. This means that dog owners can be held financially responsible for the actions of their pets regardless of where the attack occurs and whether the dog has been involved in prior aggressive incidents. Under California Civil Code Section 3342‚ the dog owner can be held liable whether or not he or she knew about the dog’s prior viciousness. It doesn’t matter if the dog has had a history of attacks or if the owner knew the animal was dangerous.
There are a few exceptions to the rule. The location of the incident can have an effect who is liable for the resulting injuries. For example‚ dog owners are responsible for their pets on public property. They are also liable when the victim was legally on private property. Victims may struggle to get the support they need‚ however‚ if they were trespassing or illegally entering private property when they were attacked.
What to Do after a Dog Attack in Chula Vista
Dog attacks are relatively common. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)‚ there are about 4.5 million dog bites each year in the United States. Dog bites may result in injuries such as tears‚ puncture wounds‚ nerve damage‚ broken bones and organ damage. Depending on the nature of the attack and the size of the victim‚ a dog attack can even prove fatal. If a dog has bitten you‚ immediately wash your wounds with soap and water. Then‚ seek out medical attention. Go to the emergency room if you are bleeding. Get prompt treatment and care for your wounds.
Try to locate the dog owner and exchange information. Take photographs of your injuries and the location where the attack occurred. Get contact information for any eyewitnesses who may have seen the attack occur. Preserve all physical evidence from the scene including torn or bloody clothing. Report the attack to the local animal control agency or police department.
Protecting Your Rights
A Chula Vista injury attorney can help you get the financial support you need for medical bills‚ lost wages‚ suffering and other related damages. Dog bite wounds often require expensive treatment‚ cosmetic surgery and rehabilitation. The dog owner should be held accountable for these types of losses‚ but you will have to act quickly to get the justice and support you rightfully deserve. Please contact the Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers. We can help you protect your legal rights every step of the way.
