Dogs are known as man’s best friend and all across the United States, they are often treated as part of the family. According to the American Pet Products Association’s (2023-2024) Survey, approximately 65 million households throughout the US own a dog. It is estimated that approximately 90 million dogs live in US households, and around 4.5 million people suffer from dog bite attacks each year.
Dogs are capable of inflicting tremendous harm when they attack, with some attacks resulting in fatalities. Even a dog with no known history of aggression or prior attacks can cause serious damage.
If you or a loved one has experienced a dog bite attack, the aftermath can be devastating. Dog bite victims often suffer from more than just physical injuries. The pain, suffering, and disfigurement caused by a dog bite attack often causes victims to suffer from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental health conditions. The road to recovery is often long and painful, but you do not have to go through it alone. If you have suffered from a dog bite attack, our experienced attorneys at TORKLAW are here to help you recover.
DOG BITE STATISTICS
According to a collection of national and medical study, each year an American has a one in fifty chance of being bitten by a dog. Notably, many of these victims are people who live in the same household as the dog. Though that is not always the case, it is important to remember that as much as you love your furry friend, they are still animals and proper precautions should be taken at all times.
If a dog bite victim has suffered injuries by another person’s dog, these victims may have grounds for making a personal injury claim and pursuing compensation for their pain and suffering.
CALIFORNIA DOG BITE STATUTE
California Civil Code Section 3342 is known as the “Dog Bite Statute.” This California law states that a dog owner is strictly liable for any injuries caused by their dog. This means that the owner does not need to have prior knowledge of their dogs dangerous propensities or aggressiveness. In California, dog owners are simply liable for their dogs actions–even if this was the first time the dog had ever attacked.
If you or a loved one are a victim of a dog bite attack, it is important to consult with the attorneys at TORKLAW who will determine whether you are entitled to monetary compensation. Our lawyers will aggressively fight for you and the compensation you deserve.
CALIFORNIA STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS
If you or your loved ones have suffered from injuries due to a dog bite attack, it is important that you are aware of the California Statute of Limitations. Generally, dog bite cases in California fall under the same statute of limitations as other personal injury cases. The law states that victims must file their claims within two years of the date that the dog bite occurred. (If the victim is a minor, the statute is tolled until two years after their eighteenth birthday). However, if the claim is against a government entity, the statute is significantly shorter and the claim must be made within six months of the date of the attack.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does homeowner’s/renter’s insurance cover dog bite attacks?
Typically, homeowners/renter’s insurance policies cover dog bite liability legal expenses up to the liability limits. The limits are usually $100,000 to $300,000, however, you will need to check your specific insurance policy to understand what your limits are.
What happens if the dog bite claim exceeds the insurance policy limits?
If the dog bite claim exceeds the insurance policy limits, the dog owner remains responsible for all damages that exceed the insurance policy.
Do insurance companies exclude some dog breeds from their policies?
Yes, some insurance companies will not insure homeowners who own certain dog breeds who are categorized as dangerous and high risk. Typically, breed based exclusions are related to pit butts and rottweilers. However, all insurance companies operate differently and may determine insurance coverage on a case-by-case basis.
What happens to a dog after it has attacked a person?
After a dog bite attack, it is normal for the dog to be quarantined and evaluated. During quarantine, the dog’s temperament will be assessed and there will be a determination as to whether the dog poses a risk to the public. Depending upon the findings of the evaluation, the dog may be returned to the owner with strict rules, or euthanized if this was not the first attack and a judge finds it poses a threat of harm.
What are the most common dog bite injuries?
Dog bite attacks typically result in painful and deep puncture wounds, lacerations, broken bones and even nerve damage. In violent dog bite attacks, the victims usually suffer from severe bleeding and require various surgeries to recover. Dog bites may even result in spinal injuries and traumatic brain injuries if the dog thrashes the victim.
Is hiring a California dog bite lawyer expensive?
At TORKLAW, there are no upfront fees or hidden costs when you hire us to represent you in your dog bite claim. We take your case on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not be required to pay any attorney’s fees or cases costs until we win or settle your case. If we do not secure compensation for you, you will pay nothing. If we do win or settle your case, we are paid a percentage of the final case award as our fee. At TORKLAW we believe everyone deserves quality legal representation without having to worry about the cost. Call us today for a free case evaluation.
