Fresno Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog Bite Lawyer in Stockton

What This Page Covers

• Liability: Dog owners are usually liable for bites under strict liability laws, making them responsible regardless of the dog’s history or the owner’s knowledge of aggressive behavior.
• Immediate Steps: After a dog bite, seek medical attention, document the incident, report to animal control, and consult a lawyer to understand your legal rights.
• Compensation: Victims may receive economic damages for financial losses, non-economic damages for emotional distress, and possibly punitive damages for reckless behavior by the dog owner.
• Setareh Law: Setareh Law provides dedicated representation for dog bite victims, ensuring fair compensation and holding negligent owners accountable.

Dog bite cases can be complex, both legally and emotionally. From determining liability to navigating the legal system, it can be a lot to handle on your own. That’s why having a knowledgeable and compassionate legal team on your side can make all the difference.

At Setareh Law, we understand the physical and emotional toll that a dog bite can have on you and your family. Our personal injury lawyers are committed to providing personalized attention and guidance throughout the legal process. 

Who is Liable for Dog Bites?

When it comes to dog bites, determining liability can be a complex issue. In most cases, the dog’s owner is held responsible for any harm caused by their pet. However, liability can also extend to other parties, such as property owners or caretakers, who knew or should have known about the dog’s aggressive tendencies.

In dog bite cases, the legal principle of “strict liability” is often applied, which means that the owner is responsible for damages regardless of the dog’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of such behavior. This makes it easier for victims to seek compensation for their injuries, as they don’t have to prove negligence on the part of the owner to hold them accountable. 

Strict Liability Rule for Dog Bites in California

Under California law, a dog owner is liable for damages if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the victim’s presence on the owner’s property. This strict liability applies unless the victim provoked the dog, was trespassing on private property, or was engaged in a criminal activity at the time of the attack. 

What to Do After a Dog Bite

After experiencing a dog bite, seek medical attention immediately to address any injuries and prevent infections. Document the incident by taking photos of the injuries, obtaining the dog owner’s contact information, and gathering witness statements if possible.

Reporting the dog bite to the local animal control authorities can prevent further incidents and ensure the dog is properly evaluated for potential risks. Consulting with a dog bite attorney is advisable to understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation for your damages.

Types of Compensation Following a Dog Bite in Stockton

After sustaining a dog bite injury, you may be entitled to various types of compensation to cover your losses. Economic damages refer to the financial costs incurred due to the incident, such as medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation expenses. These expenses are tangible and quantifiable, making them easier to calculate and seek reimbursement for.

Non-economic damages, on the other hand, focus on the intangible losses suffered, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. While these damages are not easily quantifiable, they are equally important in recognizing the impact of the dog bite on your overall well-being. An experienced Stockton dog bite lawyer can help you determine the appropriate compensation for these non-economic damages.

In cases where the dog owner’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future. 

Statute of Limitations for Dog Bites in California

Under California law, dog bite victims have a limited timeframe to file a legal claim seeking compensation for their injuries. The statute of limitations for dog bites in California is typically two years from the date of the incident. This means that individuals who have been bitten by a dog must initiate legal action within two years to preserve their right to seek compensation for their damages. 

Failing to file a dog bite claim within the statute of limitations can result in the loss of the right to pursue legal action and obtain compensation for your injuries.

Reasons to Hire a Dog Bite Attorney 

When dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite incident, hiring a dog bite lawyer offers numerous advantages in navigating the legal complexities and seeking fair compensation for your injuries. An experienced lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve for your damages.

A dog bite attorney has the expertise and resources to investigate the circumstances of the incident, assess liability, and build a strong case on your behalf. Insurance companies may try to minimize liability and offer inadequate settlements to victims. However, having a skilled dog bite lawyer on your side can level the playing field and ensure that you are not taken advantage of during negotiations.

Contact a Stockton Dog Bite Attorney at Setareh Law Today

Dog bites can be traumatic experiences that leave physical and emotional scars. Dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our Stockton dog bite attorneys are dedicated to representing dog bite victims and holding negligent owners accountable for their actions.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite in Stockton, you may be overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn for help. That’s where we come in. Schedule a consultation with one of our dog bite lawyers by calling (209) 643-4316 or filling out our contact form.

Schedule a Consult at Our Fresno Location

Setareh Law, APLC

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