Rancho Mirage Dog Bite Lawyer
Even the friendliest domesticated dog still has wild instincts that can sometimes lead an otherwise polite pet to cause serious and potentially life-threatening injuries. Fortunately, state law affords dog bite victims the right to take legal action against the owner of the dog that attacked them.
Knowing what legal options you have in this situation is different from effectively enforcing them, and accomplishing the latter often requires help from a seasoned personal injury attorney. After being hurt by another person’s unrestrained pet, one of your top priorities should be contacting a Rancho Mirage dog bite lawyer to discuss how to approach your unique case.
When Are Dog Owners Liable for Bite Injuries?
In California, dog owners are strictly liable for almost all injuries their dog causes to another person by biting them. For example, if someone falls backward and suffers a brain injury after a dog jumped at and bit them, the owner would still be strictly liable for ensuing losses even though the bite itself was not the most direct cause of the injuries.
This strict liability does not apply to injuries a dog causes by doing something other than biting—for example, jumping onto someone or knocking them over. In these situations, the injured party would need to prove that a specific act of negligence by the dog’s owner directly led to their injury in order to recover compensation.
Furthermore, dog owners are generally not liable for injuries their dog causes to someone trespassing on their property or to someone who was taunting, attacking, or otherwise provoking the dog into biting them. A Rancho Mirage attorney could go into more detail during a private initial meeting about how state law governs dog bite cases.
Securing Compensation Within Filing Deadlines
As a skilled lawyer could explain, both economic and non-economic damages may be recoverable through a successful lawsuit or settlement demand built around a dog bite injury in Rancho Mirage, including:
- Physical pain and suffering
- All past and future medical bills
- Personal property damage
- Emotional and psychological trauma
- Lost work income or ability to work
- Lost consortium and enjoyment of life
Importantly, though, California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1 generally allows an injured person two years after initially sustaining physical harm to begin filing suit over their injury. With few exceptions, the court will not hear a case of anyone who waits too long to start a dog bite claim and fails to meet this deadline.
Talk to a Rancho Mirage Dog Bite Attorney Today
Dog attacks can be intensely traumatic experiences, even if they do not result in injuries severe enough to require professional medical care. When someone else’s pet severely hurts you, taking prompt and proactive legal action could be vital to preserving your best interests in the long term.
Working closely with a knowledgeable Rancho Mirage dog bite lawyer could make a difference in your chances of securing a favorable resolution to your claim. Call today for a consultation with our team.
