Dog Bites

Beverly Hills Dog Bite Lawyer

Americans love their dogs, but no state has dog fever more than California. Californians own more dogs than residents of any other state, with roughly 40% of all California households having at least one canine. Golden State residents also spend the most collectively to have unwanted dogs euthanized. The most concerning statistic, however, is that insurance companies pay out more money for dog bite settlements in California than in any other state; that means as the victim of a dog bite, you’re highly likely to recover compensation for all accident-related damages. However, this is best achieved with the help of a seasoned attorney. 

A Beverly Hills dog bite lawyer at Setareh Law is here to provide you with the legal representation needed to settle your case on the most favorable terms. Our team is well-versed in California personal injury law and have helped numerous people just like you successfully pursue compensation for everything from medical treatment to pain and suffering. Allow us to do the same for you. Speak with our team today to learn more about how we can maximize your dog bite settlement.

Can You Sue If a Dog Bites You in California?

When a dog bites another person in a public place or when the individual is lawfully on private property, California Civil Code Section 3342 states that the dog’s owner is liable for the resulting damages. It’s important to note that this applies only when the person who was bitten did not provoke the dog and was not trespassing at the time of the incident.

In some situations, more than one party may hold partial responsibility for a dog bite. For instance, if the dog was under the care of another person at the time of the attack, such as a dog walker, you may be able to hold them accountable for your damages. Discussing the specific details of your case with your dog bite lawyer is crucial, as each situation is unique and requires tailored legal representation.

What Is the Average Settlement for Dog Bite Cases?

The damages you may be eligible to recover in your dog bite accident case depend on several factors, including the severity of the attack and the location of the injury. While the specific compensation you can seek is specific to your claim, there are several common types of damages that you may qualify for, including:

  • Attorney fees
  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
  • Prescription medication bills
  • Lost wages or income
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Pain and suffering
  • Wrongful death damages

To accurately determine the value of a dog bite claim, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of California law and effective legal strategies. At Setareh Law, we have extensive experience handling such cases. By consulting with us, we can offer a thorough assessment of your claim and guide you through the legal process, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the full range of compensation available to you.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

Dog bites are random occurrences that can leave you scared and unsure of what to do next. Do I call the police? Should I take a picture of the dog? Am I supposed to remain at the scene? These are just a few questions that may go through your mind after an incident with a dog, but the best way to protect your right to damages is to do the following:

  • Gather Info on the Dog: Identify the dog that bit you and jot down the owner’s contact information.
  • Collect Evidence: Document your injuries from the dog bite and record how the injury has affected your everyday life.
  • Get Medical Treatment: Seek sufficient medical treatment from a licensed medical professional, even if the injuries seem minor.
  • Report the Attack: Report the dog bite to either a local animal control agency or law enforcement and have an official incident report drafted

The one action to avoid after a dog bite is signing anything from the insurance company without first consulting with legal counsel. They’ll often try to get dog bite victims to sign documents that downplay the severity of their injury or even suggest there was no injury. Instead, speak with a Beverly Hills dog bite lawyer at Setareh Law who can ensure that you receive compensation for your injuries.

Common Dog Bite Injuries in Beverly Hills

Dog bites are especially dangerous as certain breeds are particularly aggressive and will viciously attack individuals if they feel threatened. Many dogs also carry infectious diseases which can make a seemingly insignificant bite potentially life-threatening. 

Some of the most common dog bite injuries include:

  • Fractures
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Severe scarring
  • Permanent disfigurement
  • Nerve damage
  • Tissue damage

Ensure that your dog bite case receives the necessary legal attention by securing legal representation soon after the incident happens.

Liability and Recovering Damages for a Beverly Hills Dog Bite

A Beverly Hills dog bite lawyer at Setareh Law is standing by, eager to help ensure that the party liable for your injuries is held accountable for his or her negligence. Our firm is dedicated to protecting the rights of the injured and we make a concerted effort to not only represent victims but protect their interests throughout the claims process. Contact us today at 310-659-1826 for a free consultation with a passionate dog bite lawyer with more than a decade of experience.

Schedule a Free Consult at Our Beverly Hills Location
Setareh Law, APLC
8484 Wilshire Blvd #870,
Beverly Hills, CA 90211