Dog Bite Injury Attorney

Dog Bite Injury Attorney in Downey, CA

Dog bite injuries can leave lasting physical and emotional scars that disrupt your daily life. When a dog attacks without warning, victims often face painful wounds, expensive medical treatments, and trauma that extends far beyond the initial incident. California law protects dog bite victims, holding owners accountable regardless of whether the dog had previously shown aggressive behavior.

At Setareh Law, our experienced Downey personal injury lawyers understand your challenges after a dog attack. With over $250 million recovered for injured clients and 60+ years of combined experience, we fight aggressively to secure the compensation you deserve. Our team handles dog bite cases throughout Downey and the surrounding areas on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case.

What Should You Do After a Dog Bite in Downey?

Taking immediate action after a dog attack can protect your health and legal rights. Your priority should always be seeking medical attention, even if the wound appears minor. Dog bites carry serious infection risks and may cause damage beneath the skin’s surface that isn’t immediately visible.

Document everything related to the incident as thoroughly as possible. Take photographs of your injuries, the location where the attack occurred, and the dog if you can do so safely. Collect contact information from the dog’s owner and witnesses who saw the attack. Report the incident to Downey Animal Control, which creates an official record that may prove valuable in your case. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States, with one in five requiring medical attention.

Medical Treatment and Records

Proper medical care establishes documentation of your injuries that supports your compensation claim. Keep detailed records of all treatments, medications, and follow-up appointments. Your medical records will serve as crucial evidence when calculating the damages you’ve suffered.

Who Is Liable for Dog Bite Injuries in California?

California operates under strict liability laws for dog bites, which means owners are responsible for injuries their dogs cause in most situations. Unlike some states that allow a “one bite rule,” California law holds owners accountable even if their dog has never bitten anyone. You may recover compensation if the attack occurred in a public place or while you were lawfully on private property.

Property owners may also share liability in certain circumstances. If a landlord knew about a dangerous dog on their property and failed to take reasonable steps to protect visitors, they may be held responsible for resulting injuries. Similarly, dog handlers or caretakers who had temporary control of the animal during the attack may face liability.

Exceptions to Owner Liability

While California’s strict liability laws strongly favor victims, certain circumstances may affect your ability to recover compensation. Trespassing on private property, provoking the dog, or working as a veterinarian or groomer when the bite occurred may impact your claim. A skilled Downey dog bite lawyer can evaluate how these factors apply to your specific situation.

What Damages Can You Recover in a Dog Bite Case?

Dog bite victims may seek compensation for economic and non-economic losses resulting from the attack. Understanding the full scope of available damages helps ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve. California law allows recovery for various types of harm caused by a dog attack.

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover measurable financial losses you’ve incurred or will face in the future. 

These include medical expenses for:

• Emergency care
• Surgery
• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Counseling to address trauma

You may also recover lost wages if your injuries prevented you from working and compensation for reduced earning capacity if permanent damage affects your ability to perform your job.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the intangible ways the attack has affected your life. The following types of harm may warrant additional compensation:

• Pain and Suffering: Physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by your injuries
• Disfigurement: Permanent scarring or altered appearance resulting from the attack
• Loss of Enjoyment: Reduced ability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed

Severe cases involving particularly vicious attacks or owner negligence may also support claims for punitive damages designed to punish wrongdoing.

Calculating Your Case Value

Every dog bite case is unique, and the value depends on factors including injury severity, treatment duration, and long-term impact on your life. An experienced dog bite attorney can thoroughly evaluate your damages and build a compelling case for maximum recovery.

Why Choose Setareh Law for Your Dog Bite Injury Claim in Downey, CA?

Our Downey dog bite lawyer brings decades of experience handling complex personal injury cases throughout California. We understand the medical, legal, and insurance issues that arise in dog bite claims and know how to navigate these challenges effectively. With over 400 five-star Google reviews, our track record speaks to the quality of representation we provide.

Setareh Law operates eight convenient office locations across California, making it easy to access experienced legal representation wherever you are. We also offer home visits for clients unable to travel due to injuries. Our dog bite attorneys speak Spanish and are available around the clock to answer your questions and address your concerns.

Contact an Experienced Dog Bite Injury Lawyer at Setareh Law

Dog bite injuries demand immediate legal attention to protect your rights and maximize your recovery. Setareh Law has successfully recovered over $250 million for injured clients throughout California by holding negligent dog owners accountable. Our aggressive advocacy and commitment to personalized service help ensure you receive the compensation for medical care, lost wages, and other damages resulting from your attack.

Don’t let a dog bite upend your life without fighting back. Our experienced dog bite lawyers are ready to evaluate your case and explain your legal options at no cost. Complete our contact form to schedule your free consultation with a dedicated Downey dog bite attorney.

Schedule a Consult at Our Fresno Location

Setareh Law, APLC

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