California dog bite lawyers at Bisnar Chase have won canine attack cases for over 45 years. Our team of dedicated attorneys, paralegals, and pre-litigation experts has won more than $800 million for our clients. We want to help make your life better and are dedicated to making the world safer.
We’ve all heard horror stories: a canine suddenly turns on its owner and attacks. Here’s what you need to know about canine bites and why they happen.
Dogs are animals that have a lot of human contact and because of this, they can become dangerous if not properly trained. As the owner, you are responsible for teaching your dog how to behave in various situations and adequately socialize them.
Suppose you have been bitten or attacked by a canine. In that case, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer specializing in animal attacks to determine if you are entitled to compensation to cover your medical bills and damages and to pursue the at-fault animal owner for compensation as the victim of the injury.
Being bitten by a dog can go so much further than broken bones or scarring. The emotional trauma of a canine attack can last a lifetime. The personal injury attorneys at Bisnar Chase have handled many canine attack cases with an outstanding success rate. We have the knowledge and experience to provide superior representation for our clients.
With a 99% success rate, our team is the right choice for your case. We will fight to ensure you get the compensation you deserve for your losses, injuries, and trauma.
To speak with a top-rated California dog attack lawyer about your legal rights and to discuss pursuing a dog bite injury lawsuit, please contact us at (800) 561-4887.
Canine Attack Resources
Physical & Emotional Toll on Dog Bite Victims
Did you know that at least one person in the US is sent to a hospital every hour due to an animal attack?
These facts and numbers are alarming enough, considering what we know about animal bites. But did you know that 800 children are bitten each day by a family pet?
Industry experts have found that nearly 75% of animal bite fatalities are children under the age of 10. And by adulthood, more than one-third of all adults in the US have been bitten by a dog.
When a canine attacks an individual – regardless of age, physical build, or mental attributes – the incident always leaves a mark. This goes beyond the physical puncture wounds and bite injuries suffered by the dog bite victim.
In many canine bite cases, the incident will take a heavy emotional and physical toll on the dog attack victim. Whether that person is a six ft-tall man or a tiny toddler, they may go through a period of intense fear and insecurity due to the attack.
A canine attack can be extremely traumatic. Dog aggression can result in long-lasting anxiety and the physical wounds you normally associate with canine bites. In serious attacks, a wrongful death claim could be filed by the family or loved ones.
Injuries that are typically associated with a serious canine attack can include the following:
- Deep contusions
- Fractures
- Serious infection
- Amputations
- Serious head and face injuries
- Long-term emotional scars
Dog bite bacteria dangers
Bacteria are the most common cause of dog bite wounds. Being bitten by a dog can cause many infections, such as cellulitis, and tend to leave a sore or bruise on the skin. Bacteria that can cause dog bites to include:
- Enterobacteriaceae bacteria (often found in fecal matter)
- Streptococcus bacteria (often found in the mouth)
- Staphylococcus bacteria (often found on the skin)
A dog bite infection is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment. The ideal weapon against these bacteria is cleanliness, especially regarding your hands and feet. Keep your dog’s nails trimmed, wash your hands after playing with your pet, and avoid walking barefoot in areas where there is feces or mud.
If you get a dog bite wound, keep it clean and protected from further contamination by applying lotion or antiseptic creams as needed. If the infection persists, seek immediate medical attention.
Canine Bite Fatalities By Breed
There are many breeds of dogs, each with its unique characteristics. While this can make choosing a new pet exciting, it can also be confusing regarding canine bites and fatality potential that can put a pet owner at financial risk.
Because of this, it is important to understand the different types of dog breeds and learn how they are likely to act based on breed history.
Large dogs may not be more aggressive than small dogs, but the damage they can do is far worse. For example, exposed body parts increase the risk of getting more damage if bit by a large dog. This includes the neck, face, head, and hands. When canines bite people in these areas, serious damage can result, even a wrongful death.
Based on current statistics, pit bulls lead the pack in fatal canine attacks. Rottweilers and German Shepards come in #2 & 3.
The state of California once again leads the nation in dog attacks in the US.
Stats via Dogsbite.org
If a Dog Bites You, Do These 7 Things Now
A canine attack can be dangerous and even life-threatening. For this reason, it is important to know what to do in the event of one.
The best way to avoid a canine attack is not to provoke the animal in any way. This includes feeding or petting it. If a dog corners you, don’t run away – stand still and try not to make eye contact with the animal.
If the animal continues with its attack, try to protect your neck, abdomen and head. Keep your body as tight as possible, and try not to further excite the animal. This can be almost impossible when you are attacked, but it could save your life. Think of it as a bear attack.
If you are attacked by a dog:
You play with a dog, and something happens between a growl and a tail wag. They may bite and even scratch. Alternatively, it is possible to walk down a street when an unknown pet attacks without warning leaving you with injuries.
- Immediately make sure the canine is secured.
- Contact the police and seek medical help.
- Take photographs and videos of the area and the animal if possible. Take footage of your injuries while they’re fresh to ensure evidence is preserved.
- Locate the owner of the dog and get their contact information and the pet’s vaccination history.
- If you are not too injured, write down how the attack happened while it’s fresh in your mind.
- Report the attack to your local animal control.
- Contact a law firm specializing in dog bite cases
Top-Rated Dog Bite Lawyer John Bisnar discusses the steps you should take after being bitten by a canine, including taking pictures of your injuries right away.
California Leads the Nation in Dangerous Canine Attacks
In the United States, there are approximately 4.7 million canine bites per year according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Statistics show the state of California to be one of the leading states regarding canine attacks, canine bite injuries, and fatalities.
Figures released by the United States Postal Service revealed that Los Angeles is consistently at or near the top of the charts regarding the cities with the most canine attacks on postal workers, while San Diego also made the top 12.
A study examining reported canine bites and criminal charges found that:
- California had the second most dog attack fatalities
- There were 45 deaths in California over the study period
- About 4.5 million people are injured by canines every year across the U.S.
According to a report released by State Farm insurance company, California also led the pack regarding the number of dog bite claims (527) and the payout in these cases ($20.3 million). Experts say the state’s high population and the year-round pleasant weather in Southern California could account for the prevalence of animal attacks here.
View our Dog Bite Attack Statistics in the U.S (Infographic). Download or share our dangerous breed(s) dog bite infographic to educate others on the dangers of approaching a dangerous dog.
Strict Liability Statute in California for a Dog Bite Claim
California has what is known as a “strictly liable statute” regarding canine attacks. This means that dog owners are responsible for the actions of their pets, even if they have shown no previous signs of aggression or violence.
The only exceptions may be when the dog attack was provoked by cruelty toward the animal or when someone commits a crime and trespassing on private property and isn’t there lawfully and with permission.
However, there are few exceptions to California’s strict liability dog bite law. In most cases, animal owners can be held financially liable in addition to receiving citations or facing other penalties associated with an attack.
California Dog Bite Law: California Civil Code Section 3342 states: “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 on private property, 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.” – California civil code
There have also been several recent cases in California where courts have upheld personal injury claims against landlords who have allowed a tenant to have a dangerous canine on their premises.
The California dog attack lawyers of Bisnar Chase excel in holding irresponsible canine owners accountable and ensuring that dog attack victims are adequately compensated and supported.
California canine euthanasia law
In three circumstances, California law allows a dog to be euthanized after a bite incident. This includes the following:
If it is the second time, the dog has attacked a person, if the owner trained the dog to attack, or if the owner knew the dog’s danger or trained it to do violence.
Furthermore, the American Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) recognizes that level four or five biters can potentially be trained to correct their behavior but still recommends euthanasia for dogs that carry out severe attacks.
California canine bite law quarantine
In California, the quarantine requirement after a dog bite attack is driven by a fear of rabies. The quarantine process under California dog bite law begins with a report that must be made after the dog bit someone.
These bites are legally required to be reported to the local health official. All dog attacks must be reported, even if the dog attacked a trespasser or was defending its owner.
The officer can quarantine the dog at the owner’s home or elsewhere. Dogs at high risk for rabies are quarantined somewhere else, such as the veterinarian’s office, an animal shelter or impound, or a kennel under contract with the animal control office.
Dogs deemed a low risk for rabies can be quarantined at the owner’s home. The quarantine period lasts for 10 days. It would end with the animal’s release or euthanasia if the dog had rabies. If the dog owner does not comply with the quarantine procedure, he or she can face a criminal charge.
If the quarantine was being performed in the owner’s home, officers can move the dog to another location.
Injuries and Treatment in Canine Bite Cases
The victim of a canine attack is often left with scars and a fear of dogs. They may also experience long-term physical or emotional problems.
Dog bites happen when people are unaware of the dog’s behavior or cannot control their own behavior. It can happen if the dog is not properly trained, if the person has an allergy to dogs, or if the person is drunk or on drugs.
The severity of canine bites can range from minor bruising and puncture marks to life-threatening wounds and long-term damage. Even if an animal bite victim has injuries that are not severe, it does not mean that they cannot file a dog bite lawsuit. Any attack can result in a financial burden and lasting psychological scars.
Dog bite injuries can be divided into different grades of severity:
- Grade 1: Scratches and bruising
- Grade 2: Bite marks but no punctures
- Grade 3: Puncture wounds that break the skin
- Grade 4: Deep piercing wounds and ripped flesh & possible nerve damage
- Grade 5: Many different piercing bite wounds from a sustained attack
- Grade 6: Fatality
Treating a Canine Attack
A dog bite attack can be traumatic for victims of dog bites. If you are bitten, it is important to know how to treat the wound and minimize the risk of infection.
The following steps should be taken if bitten by a dog:
- – Clean and wash the wound with soap and water
- – Apply pressure to stop bleeding
- – Seek medical attention if you have any of these symptoms: fever, chills, or increased pain in the injured area
The severity of the bite wounds will dictate the kind of medical treatment victims of dog bites will require. Every year there are about 900,000 dog bite injuries in the United States, resulting in some form of medical treatment, with many also requiring hospital care.
Physical therapy
Types of physical therapy treatments for a dog bite victim include a range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, massage, heat/cold therapy, and electrical stimulation. These treatments can help to reduce pain, improve mobility, and reduce swelling. They can also help to restore function to the affected area of the body and to promote healing.
Often, dog bite victims or their families spend thousands of dollars on therapy so that their lives can return to normalcy. Most victims fear dogs long-term, while some require cosmetic surgery to treat bite marks and scars.
Some patients pay out of pocket for these procedures and psychological therapy sessions to combat issues such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
This is where a California dog bite attorney can help. By filing a dog bite case, you may be able to recover expenses and compensation relating to your treatment.
California Dog Attack FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Find the answers to some of the most frequent questions asked of a California canine attack attorney below. If you have further questions, do not hesitate to contact Bisnar Chase.
Personal injury lawsuits have a two-year statute of limitations in California. This means that you have two years from the date you were bitten by the dog to file your claim. A lawyer at Bisnar Chase can help you submit a strong case in a timely manner.
If your injuries require immediate medical attention, that should be your first step. You should also collect the name, address, and contact details of the dog owner if possible, as well securing contact details for any witnesses. If you cannot identify the dog owner, contact animal control and provide a full description of the animal. Record your location, take pictures of your injuries, and contact a California dog bite lawyer at Bisnar Chase.
Bisnar Chase is proud to make a ‘No Win, No Fee’ promise. Our law firm advances the costs necessary to win your dog attack case. Contact Bisnar Chase to learn more.
The length of a case will depend on a range of factors, such as the severity of your injuries. Your dog bite attorney will need to know the extent of damage, as well as your rehabilitation progress, in order to secure the maximum compensation possible for you. The length of the lawsuit will also depend on whether an out-of-court compensatory settlement can be agreed upon.
If you have been injured, you deserve to be compensated. No victim should be left counting the costs of medical care and other related expenses. To find out if it is worth filing a lawsuit in your case, contact Bisnar Chase. We offer a free consultation with no obligations, providing expert legal guidance. There is nothing to lose by exploring your options!
Service dogs provide a necessary support system to people with disabilities. Many people use service dogs to handle the day to day of their lives. But, there is risk that you will be bitten by a service dog or emotional support dog because they are extra protective of their owners.
While a service dog requires training and registration, an emotional support dog does not and therefore the risk of being bitten is higher.
If you’ve been bitten by a service dog or emotional support canine, contact us for a free case evaluation.
Yes. California dog bite laws require that an animal be quarantined for 10 days after a dog bite is reported to the authorities. If the dog is deemed dangerous, it may be put down.
Unfortunately a dog is considered property so most dog on dog attacks are not personal injury cases. You may be able to work out a financial deal with the owner of the dog that bit your dog to help pay for medical bills.
California Dog Bite Compensation for Victims
It is unfair that dog bite victims pay such a high physical and financial price for a dog attack when the incident was not even their fault. Dog owners should be held financially responsible for these unsuspecting victims’ injuries, damages, and losses.
Injured victims can seek compensation in animal attack cases for damages such as:
- Medical expenses – such as hospitalization and surgery costs
- Lost wages
- Rehabilitation
- Permanent disfigurement or disability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
A dog bite law firm is very familiar with the laws in California regarding unwarranted canine attacks and will be able to fight for you against the dog owner. We have handled various dog attacks, including Pitbulls, Rottweilers, and even Labrador Retrievers.
Dog Attacks and Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners’ insurance policies usually cover dog attacks. Most of the insurance companies provide liability coverage between $100,000 and $300,000. However, if the dog owner is a renter or lacks insurance, the victim can try to hold the property owner liable for allowing a dangerous dog to live on the premises.
In a recent development, Farmers Group Insurance Company notified its policyholders that it would no longer cover bites by pit bulls, Rottweilers, and wolf hybrids under homeowners’ insurance policies.
Despite sharp criticism from pit bull advocates, insurers say bites from pit bulls and other breeds have risen significantly in recent years, along with the cost of settling a dog bite claim.
Farmers insurance said the three breeds it listed accounted for more than 25 percent of their animal bite claim filings. Farmers’ officials also said these breeds caused more harm than any other breed when attacked.
Contact Dog Bite Lawyers in California For Free
Dog bite attorneys are experienced in defending people whose dogs have attacked others and caused considerable damage or death. Attorneys specializing in dog attacks can help victims get the compensation they deserve.
There are many different types of cases that can be brought against a dog owner. Canine bite cases generally involve damage to property, injuries, or death. Dog owners may face charges for negligent control of their animal, as well as for violations of leash laws that are in place in the area where the attack occurred.
Some states also have laws against exposing an animal to danger, so additional charges may be filed against the owner if the animal was not properly cared for or restrained before the incident occurred.
Experienced dog bite attorneys can advise you about all legal options available and explain your possible outcome based on the circumstances at each stage of your case.
An experienced and seasoned dog bite lawyer will differentiate between winning and losing your case. By working with Bisnar Chase, you get injury lawyers with more than 45 years of experience. Our legal representatives and staff team have a 99% success rate and have won more than $800 million for their clients. Lawyers specializing in dog bites routinely study these cases and understand the laws, courts, and local statutes.
Some of Our Dog Attack Case Results
| Award Amount | Type of Case |
|---|---|
| $3,000,000.00 | Dog Bite / Premises Liability |
| $2,100,000.00 | Dog Bite / Premises Liability |
| $1,400,000.00 | Dog Bite / Premises Liability |
| $1,000,000.00 | Dog Bite / Premises Liability |
| $875,000.00 | Dog Bite / Premises Liability |
| $500,000.00 | Dog Bite / Premises Liability |
| $300,000.00 | Dog Bite / Premises Liability |
| $125,000.00 | Dog Bite / Premises Liability |
| $100,000.00 | Dog Bite / Premises Liability |
If you have been injured or experienced a traumatic canine attack, contact the California dog bite attorneys of Bisnar Chase now. Call (800) 561-4887, or click to contact us by email to arrange a free, no-hassle, confidential, and no-obligation dog attack consultation.
