The potential losses experienced by dog bite victims often go far beyond puncture wounds and lacerations. Dog bites can leave emotional scars, residual trauma, and serious complications long after the initial wounds associated with the bite have healed.
If you or someone you love is the victim of a dog bite, it is important to work with lawyers who know how to assess the various types or damage sustained, can guide you through the claim and/or litigation process, and can help you recover a fair amount for your losses.
Common Injuries in California Dog Bite Cases
When a dog attacks and bites a person, the likelihood of injury is extremely high. Young children and older adults are especially susceptible to serious injuries suffered from a dog bite attack. Potential injuries that may occur when a dog attacks a person include lacerations, puncture wounds, infections, contusions, fractures, and, in the worst cases, the need for amputation.
Moreover, when many of these types of injuries occur, the dog bite victim may be left with an unsightly scar on his or her body that causes the victim shame or embarrassment.
In addition, individuals who are bitten by dogs, especially young children, may suffer severe emotional distress or mental anguish as a result of the attack. In the case of small children, a dog bite may haunt them for the remainder of their lives, and they may develop a fear of dogs as they grow older.
Strict Liability in California
According to the provisions of California Civil Code § 3342, the State of California generally follows the rule of strict liability in dog bite cases. This means that when a dog bites a human being and injures that person, the dog’s owner can be held liable regardless of how the bite occurred. In other words, after a bite, dog owners are almost always required to compensate victims for any losses they sustained as a result of the attack.
Recoverable Damages in Dog Bite Cases
If you have suffered injuries as a result of a dog bite, you may be entitled to compensation. Potential damages include payment of related past and future medical bills, including mental healthcare expenses. You may also be able to recover for your pain and suffering, emotional distress, lost past and future wages, and other related expenses.