Skilled Dog Bite Attorneys in the City of Calexico, California
Dog owners in California are subject to strict liability. After a dog bite, defend your right to a fair compensation.
Attempting to avoid hazards caused by other people is one thing, but attempting to predict the behaviors of a possibly dangerous dog is far more difficult. When a canine mauls, bites, or attacks an unsuspecting person, the State of California allows the injured person the opportunity to seek reparations from the animal owner.
California’s dog bite statutes, however, can be difficult to understand, as they have certain ambiguities that can be difficult to interpret. When seeking compensation for a dog bite attack, it is important to seek proficient legal counsel.
Obtain Legal Support from an Experienced Dog Bite Attorney
Attorney Domingo Castillo has been in the insurance claims industry for more than 30 years and has successfully handled thousands of cases for insurance carriers such as Cigna, Allstate and more. Having brought justice to more than 10,000 clients in Calexico, CA including Imperial Valley, El Centro, Brawley, Calipatria and all neighboring communities, the attorneys at Castillo & Associates excel in their respective field. Consider obtaining a free case evaluation by contacting the firm today.
California’s Dog Bite Statutes
The State of California has select laws that govern injuries caused by dogs. The statute applied to the particular case will depend on the specifics of the individual case.
A person that was not bitten by the canine but was instead injured through an attack, such as being pushed, jumped on, or scratched, will not be able to recover compensation by California’s strict dog bite law. Instead, the victim seeking reparations can still file a claim but will need to assert the dog owner’s negligence.
On the other hand, an injury caused by a bite can be covered by the state’s strict dog bite law. In general, if the bite took place while legally on a private property or on public property, then the ability to recover compensation from the dog owner is possible.
Compensation Available Following a Dog Bite Injury
Compensation available in the aftermath of a dog bite will depend on the specifics of each individual case. Whether the losses were financial or emotional, however, the damages should be outlined in the dog bite claim. A dog bite has the capacity to inflict serious economic and non-economic damages. The following are a few examples of damages typically sought in a dog bite claim:
- Reimbursement for medical costs, such as medication, treatment, and equipment
- Compensation for reconstructive plastic surgery in the event of a disfiguring injury
- The loss of wages while in recovery
- The loss of earning potential if the bite led to a permanent incapacity
- The loss of work benefits
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of quality of life
- Embarrassment
- Emotional distress
- Developed psychological disorder, such as PTSD
Protecting the Right to Compensation by Preserving Important Evidence
The ability to recover compensation following a dog bite attack will depend on the ability to demonstrate the certain factors. In California, negligence does not need to be demonstrated when the case is being filed under the state’s strict dog bite law. Nonetheless, evidence should be safeguarded to build a strong case. Important information that should be gathered include:
- A medical record of the injuries sustained
- Information gathered about the dog owner, such as his or her name and address
- Police report
- Animal control report
- Photos of the injuries
- Expenses accumulated as a result of the dog bite attack
- Detailed documentation of the recovery process
Following a Dog Bite, Contact an Attorney to Discuss Available Options
In the aftermath of a dog bite attack, obtaining compensation can be helpful in your recovery. Sadly, many dog bite attacks can lead to serious injuries that can be very expensive to treat. Additionally, depending on the type of injury, it may be necessary to take time off of work, which may further economic hardship. Speak to a knowledgeable attorney to discuss your available legal options. If filing a claim based on California’s strict dog bite law is right for you, a proficient attorney will help defend your right to a maximum compensation.
The personal injury attorneys at Castillo & Associates are highly skilled in dog bite cases in California. With more than three decades of legal experience, the firm has successfully advocated on behalf of thousands of accident victims. Following a dog bite attack, it is imperative to act quickly and obtain proficient legal counsel. Consider contacting the attorneys at Castillo & Associates today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
