Dog Bite Liability in California

San Diego Dog Attack Attorney Explains Owner Responsibilities and Aggressive Traits to Look for When Rescuing Animals

San Diego dog attack lawyer expalins California dog bite liability for dog ownersIf you are thinking about adopting a dog or are a current dog owner, then you need to understand dog bite liability. Understanding California dog bite law is essential for dog owners. It outlines owner liability and the rights of victims after animal attacks. Knowing what duties you have as a dog owner helps protect children and guests from preventable dog bite injuries.

San Diego dog bite lawyer Bonnici Law Group wants owners to understand the responsibilities they have to help prevent dog attacks. He provides information about dog owner responsibilities under California law, what to look for in a pet when rescuing it from a shelter and what current dog owners can do to help animals become less aggressive.

Sometimes taking preventative measures is not enough to avoid serious dog bite injuries. If you or a family member is dealing with the aftermath of a dog attack, then call our San Diego dog bite attorney for a free review of your claim at (858)530-4800.

What is Dog Bite Liability for Owners in California?

Under California dog bite law, owners are strictly liable for injuries that their animals cause. This means that a person or child bitten by a dog does not have to prove negligence on the part of the dog owner. A dog bite victim does not have to prove the owner knew of past viciousness or past attacks to be liable. Unlike other states, there is no “one free bite rule” in California. You can read more about California dog bite law here.

If your dog bites or attacks another person, you will be responsible for the resulting damages. Damages from a dog attack can include hospital bills, surgical bills, lost wages of the injured person and more.

Protect yourself and your animal by following these tips and by working closely with the shelter and your veterinarian as you develop your family’s relationship with your dog. You should also review your homeowner’s insurance to ensure your policy covers dog bite claim liability.

What to Look for When Adopting a Dog

When getting a dog, it is important to do your research to learn as much as you can about the animal and its behaviors. This can include:

  • Researching different dog breed temperaments before adoption. If you have children or interact with children on a regular basis, then make sure the dog breed is one known for getting along well with kids.
  • Ask the shelter or breeder if the animal has any history of dog attacks or viciousness. Our San Diego dog bite attorney recommends getting the response in writing.
  • If the animal does have a bite history and you wish to rescue it, then work closely with the shelter, a trainer and a veterinarian to make sure the animal is safe and will not harm others. Do not allow an animal who has bitten someone in the past or one which is known to snap at people alone with a child.

What to Do to Make a Dog Less Aggressive

As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to ensure your animal does not harm anyone. These dog bite prevention tips are a good starting point in taming potentially dangerous dog behavior:

  • Take the puppy or dog to a training class. This will not only help socialize the animal but will also make it an overall better pet around the home. Often, animals return to shelters because the owners did not properly train the dog and then cannot handle its behavior.
  • Dogs must get regular veterinary attention. Dogs who are uncomfortable from illness, fleas, skin diseases or other health problems will be more irritable and prone to attack.
  • Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise, including small breeds. Dogs wound up from lack of exercise are more likely to play rough due to pent-up energy.
  • If your dog gets overly excited when guests come by, then put it in a different room or outside until it calms down. Do not allow a dog to lunge at or jump on guests.

Experienced San Diego Dog Bite Lawyer Handling Animal Attack Cases

Dog bites can be extremely serious, requiring hospitalization and surgery in some situations. If you have been injured by a dog in California, reach out to our law office. We have experience investigating and pursuing dog bite lawsuits against negligent owners.

Our law firm provides the personalized attention of a small firm with the extensive resources of a large firm dog bite that victims need. Call us today at (858)530-4800.