Dog Bite Lawyer in Orange County
Dogs—they’re our companions, helpers, protectors, and, for many of us, our family. Yet some of our canine companions are capable of wreaking serious havoc. Dog bites in particular are so prevalent that the World Health Organization reports approximately 4.5 million people are injured by them annually in the United States. The most vicious attacks cause serious and even life-threatening injuries. In Orange County, CA, and surrounding areas, victims have to navigate the complicated, state-specific dog bite laws, even while they’re in recovery.
The good news is you can trust Atticus Injury Law to help navigate the complex nature of dog bite laws in the region. Those who break Orange County dog bite laws face serious consequences, and there could be compensation for those who get bitten. Atticus Wegman and his team aren’t afraid to stand by your side and work hard for fair compensation for your injuries. As a dog bite attorney in Orange County, he cares about clients facing the physical and emotional trauma of dog bites—and fights back.
Do I Need a Dog Bite Attorney?
Advise You on Legal Options and Remedies
Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Fight Your Case in Court
What to Do After a Dog Bite
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Collect Evidence
Contact the Authorities
Orange County requires that you report any animal bite to the Orange County Animal Control Center. If you’re wondering how to report a dog bite in Orange County, you can do so by calling 714-796-6421 or filing out and faxing a form.
Contact a Dog Bite Attorney
California Dog Bite Law
Strict Liability
California law holds dog owners strictly liable for their dog’s bites, even if it’s their first time biting someone. All that the injured party must prove is:
- The dog bit them,
- The owner owned the dog at the time of the bite,
- The injured party was in a public place or where they had a lawful right to be at the time of the attack.
The injured party doesn’t have to prove that the dog bit someone before or was especially dangerous.
Exceptions to Strict Liability
Assumption of Risk
Police or Military Dogs
Compensation Available in Dog Bite Cases
Generally, California law allows injured parties to recover compensation from a dog bite. This compensation may include the following:
- Medical costs,
- Lost past and future wages,
- Pain and suffering,
- Emotional distress damages, and
- Property damage.
You may wonder, how much is a dog bite lawsuit worth? Every dog bite case is different, and the injuries can vary greatly. Thus, the value of your dog bite case depends on your specific circumstances.
What If I Am Partly at Fault for the Dog Bite?
What Happens to the Dog?
Many worry about what happens to a dog after a bite. In most cases, the dog is quarantined for ten days, typically in its home.
If your injury is severe or the dog has repeatedly bitten people, Orange County Animal Control may petition a court to declare a dog “potentially dangerous” or “vicious.” Depending on the circumstances, the court may impose severe restrictions on the dog and its owner. If a court declares the dog “vicious,” the dog could be destroyed.
Hire Our Trusted Advocates for Your Dog Bite Case
A dog bite can be a traumatic experience. Fortunately, Atticus Injury Law is here for you. We’ll work hard to meet your legal needs while showing you care. Our trial-tested personal injury practice mixes our legal knowledge with our deep desire to keep our client relationship at the forefront of our strategies. We are here for you for the long haul. Contact us today.