Fresno Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog Bite Lawyer in Fresno, California

Dog bites are traumatic experiences that can leave victims with serious injuries, lasting emotional distress, and financial burdens from medical bills and lost wages. Navigating the aftermath of such attacks requires legal representation to ensure victims obtain the compensation they deserve to facilitate physical and emotional recovery. At Setareh Law, we have focused knowledge on complex dog bite and animal attack cases, including California’s strict liability laws.

We evaluate every aspect of your case, from the circumstances of the attack to the full extent of your injuries and emotional trauma, in order to build a compelling case that secures the maximum compensation possible. Whether negotiating with insurance entities or representing you in the courtroom, we aim to alleviate the stress of the legal process so you can focus on recovery.

How Setareh Law Can Help Your Dog Bite Case 

In Fresno, dog owners are strictly liable for harm caused by pets, meaning that victims may have the right to pursue compensation for damages, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression. However, navigating a dog bite claim can be complicated, especially when dealing with insurance companies or uncooperative dog owners.

At Setareh Law, our experienced legal team fights to recover the compensation you need to recover and move forward from a dog attack incident. Here’s how we can help with your case:

Investigating the Incident

We will investigate every aspect of your case, including by gathering evidence such as photos of your injuries, witness statements, veterinary records, and any history of prior incidents involving the dog. We will also ensure that all details are properly documented to prove the dog owner’s liability under California law.

Calculating the Full Extent of Your Damages

Our Fresno dog bite attorneys will evaluate all aspects of your case to ensure that no damages are overlooked. If the attack caused long-term injuries, scarring, or disfigurement, we will also factor in the future medical care and emotional impact needed for your recovery.

Negotiating With Insurance Entities

Dealing with insurance entities is frustrating and intimidating, as insurers often attempt to minimize payouts or shift blame onto the victim. We are skilled negotiators who will handle all communications with insurance adjusters, ensuring you recover a fair settlement for injuries and losses.

Handling Complex Legal Issues

Dog bite cases can involve unique legal challenges, such as disputes over liability, determining if the owner acted negligently, or identifying whether another party (such as a landlord) may share responsibility. We will navigate these complexities on your behalf, ensuring your case is handled with meticulous detail.

Providing Compassionate Support 

At Setareh Law, we understand that dog bite injuries have an ongoing impact on your physical and emotional well-being. Our team provides compassionate, personalized service, making your recovery and peace of mind our top priorities.

California Dog Bite and Animal Attack Laws 

In California, the laws surrounding dog bites and other animal attacks are designed to protect victims and hold pet owners accountable. The following is an overview of the key statutes and legal principles governing dog bite cases in Fresno:

• Strict Liability Laws: As mentioned, California is a strict liability state, which means a dog owner is automatically responsible for any injuries a pet causes, regardless of the animal’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of such behavior. 
• Exceptions to Strict Liability: However, there are exceptions to this rule, including if the victim was trespassing, provoking the animal, or assuming the risk of being bitten by undertaking a job known to involve a risk of dog bites (e.g., a veterinarian).
• Comparative Negligence: In some cases, the amount of compensation a victim recovers may be reduced if they are partially at fault for the incident. For example, if a victim provokes the dog or ignores clear signs of aggression, damages are reduced according to the percentage of fault.
• Civil vs. Criminal Liability: In addition to civil liability for the dog owner, in cases where a dog bite is particularly severe, or it was trained to fight, attack, or kill, criminal charges may also be brought against the owner under California Penal Code Section 399.

At Setareh Law, we are experienced in navigating these complex laws and can help ensure you obtain the maximum compensation possible.

Damages Recoverable in a Dog Bite Case 

The following are the primary economic and non-economic damages that may be secured in a dog bite case:

• Medical Expenses: This includes current and future treatments related to the dog bite, including emergency room care, hospitalization, surgeries, and medications. Costs associated with cosmetic or reconstructive surgery, which are often necessary in severe cases, can also be claimed.
• Lost Wages: Victims can recover damages for wages lost due to time taken off work for recovery. If the injury affects the victim’s capability to work in the future, compensation for loss of earning capacity can also be included.
• Pain and Suffering: This includes compensation for ongoing discomfort, fear, anxiety, and the psychological trauma of scarring or disfigurement.
• Emotional Distress: Beyond pain and suffering, victims can claim emotional distress if they experience psychological symptoms such as depression, insomnia, or PTSD as a direct result of the attack.
• Loss of Quality of Life: If injuries lead to long-term or permanent limitations on the victim’s lifestyle or abilities, compensation can be sought for loss of enjoyment of life.

Our dog bite attorneys understand the profound impact a dog bite has on your life and are committed to advocating for your rights and well-being.

Our Dog Bite Lawyers at Setareh Law Will Fight for You

Dog bite injuries can have a lasting impact on your physical, emotional, and financial well-being. California’s strict liability laws provide a clear path for victims to seek compensation, but successfully pursuing a claim requires experience, legal expertise, and a strong advocate on your side. At Setareh Law, our personal injury lawyers are dedicated to helping dog bite victims recover the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.

Don’t face the legal process alone – let us take the burden off your shoulders. Call (559) 212-3708 or visit our contact form to schedule your free consultation. Take the first step toward securing the justice and compensation you deserve today.

Schedule a Consult at Our Fresno Location

Setareh Law, APLC

4005 N Blackstone Ave #101A
Fresno, CA 93726
(559) 212-3708