Dog Bites
Being attacked by an animal—especially a dog—can be a deeply traumatic experience. These incidents are often sudden and unexpected, leaving victims unsure of how to react or what steps to take next. Each year, an estimated 4.7 million Americans suffer injuries from dog bites or attacks.
Children are particularly at risk, as they are more likely to suffer severe or even fatal injuries. In many cases, dog bites come from animals familiar to the victim—often belonging to a neighbor, friend, or family member—which can make the situation even more difficult to navigate.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) reports that nearly five million people in the U.S. are injured by dog bites annually. Some of these injuries are serious enough to require emergency room treatment
Strict Liability for Dog Bites
Under California Civil Code Section 3342—commonly referred to as the Dog Bite Statute—dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs. This means the owner can be held responsible even if the dog has no prior history of aggression or if it’s the first time the dog has attacked anyone.
California’s law does not require proof that the owner knew the dog was dangerous. It is a strict liability statute, meaning the owner is automatically liable under the following conditions:
- The victim was in a public place,
- The victim was lawfully on private property, or
- The victim was legally on the dog owner’s property (such as a guest, delivery person, or utility worker).
EXCEPTIONS TO STRICT LIABILITY IN DOG BITE CASES
- Trespassers: If the person bitten was unlawfully on the property (i.e., a trespasser), the dog owner may not be held liable. This applies when the individual does not have permission to be on the property, such as someone who enters without consent.
- Provocation: If the victim provoked the dog—such as by teasing, hitting, or otherwise disturbing the animal—the dog owner may have a valid defense against liability. In this case, the owner could argue that the dog’s aggressive behavior was a response to the victim’s actions.
If the dog owner’s actions were particularly negligent or intentional, victims may seek punitive damages. These damages aim to punish the owner for their behavior and discourage similar conduct in the future.
COMPENSATION
Victims may be eligible to recover the following damages:
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering for both physical and emotional effects
- Loss of earning capacity
- Medical expenses
- Loss of use of a limb
- Permanent disability or scarring
- Psychological Impact
- Punitive Damages
If the dog owner’s actions were particularly negligent or intentional, victims may seek punitive damages. These damages aim to punish the owner for their behavior and discourage similar conduct in the future.
HOMEOWNER INSURANCE
Often, a dog owner’s homeowners insurance will cover dog bite claims. However, some policies may exclude breeds known for aggressive behavior, like pit bulls or rottweilers. If the insurance doesn’t cover the claim, the dog owner will be personally responsible for the damages."
HOW OUR FIRM FIGHTS FOR YOU
Goodman Sullivan Law Group, Inc is one of California’s most aggressive and high-powered slip and fall attorneys. Their reputation is built on a relentless, trial-ready approach: They prepares every case as if it will go to court, which puts pressure on insurance companies/owners to offer higher settlements rather than risk a jury verdict. Clients and peers describe Goodman Sullivan Law Groups, Inc’s as tenacious litigators who refuse to let insurance companies control the process, assembling a dedicated team to thoroughly investigate cases, gather evidence, and consult top experts. They are aggressive and refuse to accept inadequate settlement offers.
Goodman Sullivan Law Group, Inc’s assertive and no-nonsense approach has earned them a reputation as a dedicated advocate for injury victims, committed to securing justice against powerful property owners and insurance companies.
