Animal / Dog Bites Lawyer

Orange County Dog Bite Lawyers — Animal Attack Attorneys

California Strict Liability Means the Dog Owner Pays

Dog bites and animal attacks cause serious physical and emotional injuries, especially to children. Under California’s strict liability law, dog owners are responsible for bite injuries regardless of whether the dog has bitten anyone before. You do not need to prove the owner was negligent or that the dog was known to be dangerous — the law is on your side. At Sky Law Group, our experienced Orange County personal injury attorneys help dog bite victims recover full compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, and emotional trauma.

Call (844) 475-9529 for a free consultation. We handle dog bite cases on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win.

California Dog Bite Law — Strict Liability

California Civil Code Section 3342 establishes strict liability for dog owners. This means the dog’s owner is liable for damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the owner’s property. Unlike many other states, California does not follow a “one-bite rule” — the owner is liable even if the dog has never shown aggressive behavior before.

This strict liability applies specifically to dog bites. For other types of animal attacks — such as being knocked down by a dog, scratched, or attacked by another animal — you may still recover compensation under California’s general negligence laws by proving the owner failed to exercise reasonable care.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can cause severe and lasting injuries that require extensive medical treatment:

Puncture Wounds and Lacerations — Dogs can bite with tremendous force, causing deep puncture wounds that damage muscle, tendons, and nerves. These wounds carry a high risk of infection.

Infections — Dog bites introduce bacteria deep into tissue, leading to serious infections including cellulitis, pasteurella, MRSA, and in rare cases, rabies. Prompt medical treatment is critical.

Facial Injuries and Scarring — Dog bites to the face are especially common in children. These injuries often require reconstructive surgery and can leave permanent scarring and disfigurement.

Nerve Damage — Deep bites can sever nerves, causing numbness, loss of function, and chronic pain that may be permanent.

Broken Bones — Large dogs can break bones, particularly in the hands, arms, and wrists of victims trying to defend themselves.

Emotional Trauma and PTSD — Dog attacks often cause lasting psychological damage, including fear of dogs, anxiety, nightmares, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Children are particularly vulnerable to long-term emotional effects.

Children and Dog Bite Injuries

Children are disproportionately affected by dog bites. They are more likely to be bitten in the face and head due to their height, and they often suffer more severe injuries due to their smaller size. Dog bites are a leading cause of facial reconstructive surgery in children.

If your child has been bitten by a dog, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention and consult with an attorney. In California, the statute of limitations for a minor’s personal injury claim is tolled (paused) until the child turns 18, but pursuing the claim promptly ensures evidence is preserved and witnesses can be interviewed while memories are fresh.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in Orange County

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately — Even seemingly minor bites can become seriously infected. Go to the emergency room or urgent care for proper cleaning, antibiotics, and documentation of your injuries.

2. Identify the Dog and Owner — Get the owner’s name, contact information, and the dog’s vaccination records. If the owner is not present, take photos of the dog and note the location.

3. Report the Bite — Report the incident to Orange County Animal Care. California law requires reporting of dog bites to local animal control. This creates an official record and may trigger a quarantine of the animal.

4. Document Everything — Photograph your injuries immediately and throughout the healing process. Keep all medical records, bills, and receipts. Write down exactly what happened while it is fresh in your memory.

5. Do Not Negotiate with the Dog Owner Directly — The owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy typically covers dog bite claims. Let an experienced attorney handle the insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation.

6. Contact Sky Law Group — Call us at (844) 475-9529 for a free consultation. We will evaluate your case and advise you on the best path forward.

Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite victims in Orange County may recover compensation for:

Medical Expenses — Emergency treatment, surgery, reconstructive procedures, plastic surgery, physical therapy, prescription medications, and future medical costs.

Lost Wages — Income lost during recovery, as well as reduced earning capacity if injuries cause permanent limitations.

Pain and Suffering — Physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, fear of dogs, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Scarring and Disfigurement — Compensation for permanent scarring, particularly for visible scars on the face, hands, and arms.

Psychological Counseling — Therapy and counseling for PTSD, anxiety, and other emotional trauma resulting from the attack.

Defenses Dog Owners May Raise

While California’s strict liability law strongly favors bite victims, dog owners may raise certain defenses:

Trespassing — If you were unlawfully on the owner’s property at the time of the bite, strict liability may not apply. However, you may still have a negligence claim.

Provocation — If the victim provoked the dog (teasing, hitting, or antagonizing the animal), the owner may argue reduced or eliminated liability.

Assumption of Risk — Certain professionals who work with animals, such as veterinarians and dog groomers, may be deemed to have assumed the risk of being bitten.

Sky Law Group anticipates and counters these defenses to protect our clients’ right to full compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Claims in California

Does the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance cover dog bite injuries?

Yes, in most cases. Homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies typically include liability coverage for dog bites. The insurance company is usually responsible for paying the claim. However, some policies exclude certain breeds or dogs with a bite history. Sky Law Group investigates all available insurance coverage to maximize your recovery.

What if the dog owner is a friend or family member?

This is more common than people realize. Remember that your claim is against the owner’s insurance company, not the person directly. Filing a claim does not mean suing your friend — it means their insurance policy covers the medical costs and damages you have suffered.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in California?

The statute of limitations for a dog bite personal injury claim is two years from the date of the attack. For children, the deadline is tolled until they turn 18. However, acting quickly preserves evidence and strengthens your case.

Can I sue the landlord if a tenant’s dog bites me?

Potentially yes. If the landlord knew the tenant had a dangerous dog and failed to take reasonable steps to protect others, the landlord may be held liable under negligence principles. This is separate from the strict liability claim against the dog’s owner.

What if I was bitten by a stray or unidentified dog?

If the dog’s owner cannot be identified, you may have limited options for civil recovery. However, your own health insurance and any applicable uninsured motorist coverage may help with medical costs. Report the bite to Orange County Animal Care to help locate the dog and protect public safety.

Bitten by a dog in Orange County? Call Sky Law Group at (844) 475-9529 or contact us online for a free consultation. California’s strict liability law is on your side — let us fight for the compensation you deserve.