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Hiring a knowledgeable dog bite lawyer Orange County residents trust is important for protecting your rights after an attack. California strict liability laws hold dog owners responsible for bite injuries regardless of whether the dog has bitten anyone before.

Introduction

California has some of the strongest dog bite laws in the nation. Under the state’s strict liability statute, dog owners are liable for bite injuries regardless of whether the dog has bitten anyone before or shown aggressive tendencies. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Orange County, understanding your legal rights is essential to securing fair compensation.

California’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Statute (Civil Code §3342)

California Civil Code §3342 establishes strict liability for dog owners. This means the dog owner is automatically liable if the bite occurred in a public place or while you were lawfully on private property. Unlike many states, California has no ‘one bite rule’ — the owner is liable even for a first-time bite.

What Must Be Proven

You were bitten by the defendant’s dog. You were in a public place or lawfully on private property (invited guest, mail carrier, etc.). You suffered injuries and damages.

Who Is Liable for Dog Bite Injuries?

The dog’s owner is primarily liable. However, landlords may be liable if they knew the dog was dangerous and had the ability to remove the animal. Dog sitters, walkers, or kennels may be liable for negligent supervision.

Damages Available in Dog Bite Claims

Medical treatment (emergency care, surgery, antibiotics, rabies treatment), plastic surgery for scarring, psychological treatment (dog phobia, PTSD, anxiety), lost wages during recovery, pain and suffering, and property damage.

What to Do After a Dog Bite

Seek immediate medical attention. Report the bite to OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848. Document the injury with photographs. Get the owner’s contact and insurance information. Do not sign anything from the owner’s insurance company.

Dangerous Dog Designations

After a bite, the dog may be declared potentially dangerous or vicious under California Food and Agricultural Code §31602-31603. This triggers additional restrictions on the owner and strengthens future liability claims.

Statute of Limitations

You have two years from the date of the bite to file a personal injury lawsuit (CCP §335.1). For bites by government-owned dogs, the six-month Government Claims Act deadline applies.

Contact Sky Law Group

Dog bite injuries can be physically and emotionally devastating. Call Sky Law Group at (866) 868-5005 or 1-844-4SKYLAW for a free consultation. We hold dog owners accountable and pursue full compensation for your injuries.

People Also Ask

Q: Is a dog owner always liable for a bite in California? A: Yes, under strict liability (Civil Code §3342), as long as you were in a public place or lawfully on private property.

Q: Can I sue if a dog bites my child? A: Absolutely. Parents can file claims on behalf of minor children. Children are especially vulnerable and often suffer more severe injuries.

Q: What if the dog was provoked? A: Provocation is a defense to a dog bite claim. If you provoked the dog, the owner’s liability may be reduced or eliminated.

Dog Bite Injury Attorneys Across Orange County

Dog bite attacks happen in parks, neighborhoods, and public spaces throughout Orange County. Under California’s strict liability law, the dog owner is responsible regardless of the animal’s history. Sky Law Group helps dog bite victims in every OC city:

• Anaheim Personal Injury Lawyer
• Irvine Personal Injury Lawyer
• Santa Ana Personal Injury Lawyer
• Fullerton Personal Injury Lawyer
• Huntington Beach Personal Injury Lawyer
• Costa Mesa Personal Injury Lawyer
• Garden Grove Personal Injury Lawyer
• Westminster Personal Injury Lawyer
• Tustin Personal Injury Lawyer
• Yorba Linda Personal Injury Lawyer

Bitten by a dog? California law is on your side. Contact Sky Law Group or call (844) 475-9529 for a free consultation.

Related: How Much Is My Case Worth? | Pain and Suffering Damages in California

California Civil Code Section 3342 establishes strict liability for dog owners. Learn more at the California Legislative Information website. A knowledgeable dog bite lawyer Orange County victims trust can guide you through the claims process.

Sky Law Group — Your Dog Bite Lawyer Orange County Trusts

Do not wait to seek legal help after a dog attack. The dog bite lawyer Orange County victims rely on at Sky Law Group can help you recover compensation for medical bills, scarring, and emotional trauma. Call (866) 868-5006 today.