Getting Help From a Santa Monica Dog Bite Attorney After An Injury

Dogs seem to be everywhere people go these days, and it’s no different in Santa Monica or in Los Angeles. It is common to see dogs not just on sidewalks and in parks but also in or near restaurants and dog-friendly hotels. But when a dog bites you or a loved one while you are at a park, restaurant, hotel or any other public place, or while you are lawfully on private property, the dog owner can be held responsible for your injuries.

At the Law Offices of Eric Hershler, we can hold the dog owner or other liable party accountable for your injuries. We have extensive experience in maximizing the compensation from personal injury claims, and we are ready to put that experience to work for you. We have more than 35 years of experience navigating California law to help our clients, and we can guide you through your injury claim, no matter how complicated it may seem.

Highlighted Case Result

 

$1.1 Million Dog Bite Settlement

 

in 2022, our client was walking his dog when a neighbor’s dog attacked them. The neighbor’s dog attacked him as he picked up his small dog, causing severe injuries to his hands, arms, and legs. We received a settlement from the homeowner’s insurance for $1.1M.

What You Should Know About A Dog Bite Injury Claim In California

California dog-bite laws impose “strict liability” on dog owners. This means that the owner of the dog is liable to pay for the damages you suffer when their dog bites you, including if you are on the dog owner’s property by implied or express invitation. The owner does not need to have any prior knowledge of their dog’s viciousness for the court to impose strict liability penalties. While strict liability applies specifically to bites, victims may also recover compensation for other dog-related injuries, such as being knocked down, through negligence or premises liability claims. If you file your claim within two years of the injury occurring, you may have a right to damages, such as payment for past and future medical bills, lost income and future lost earning capacity, and pain and suffering.

There are many different causes of dog bites, including old or blind dogs being startled, encountering a defensive or aggressive dog, meeting a dog with a prior history of abuse or suddenly surprising a sleeping dog. No matter what caused it, it is vital that you seek medical attention after a bite to ensure your injuries do not worsen. Be sure to take pictures of the bite and anything related to the bite, as this evidence can also bolster your claim. If you are able to get the names and contact information of any witnesses, that can also help your claim, as your attorney can contact them for a formal statement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bites

To help you better understand your rights after a dog bite, here are answers to common questions we hear from injury victims:

How can I tell if a dog might bite?

Before snapping, many dogs stiffen, raise their fur, fix their stare or show more of the white of their eyes. Growling or freezing in place also means you should step back and avoid sudden movement.

What injuries commonly happen after dog bites?

Victims may suffer punctures, torn skin, nerve damage, infection, bruising, fractures or facial harm. Children may also experience lasting emotional trauma.

Can I pursue compensation if the dog never bit anyone before?

Yes. California’s strict liability statute does not require a history of aggression. If the dog caused your injuries and you were lawfully present, you may be entitled to financial recovery.

Do I need broken skin to file a claim?

While California’s strict liability statute applies specifically to bites, you may still pursue a claim for other injuries (like being knocked down or suffering crush injuries) under a general negligence theory. This type of claim requires proving the owner failed to use reasonable care to control the dog.

Are there situations where the owner may not be liable?

Yes. Liability may not apply if you were trespassing, provoked the dog or were injured while performing certain work involving the animal. Legal review is important.

These answers are general. Discussing your specific situation with an attorney can help you understand your options.<

What To Do After A Dog Bite

Taking the right steps immediately after a bite helps protect your health and your legal rights. It is advisable to do the following:

• Seek immediate medical care
• Document injuries and the scene
• Identify the dog and owner
• Report the bite to the authorities
• Gather witness information
• Consult legal counsel promptly

Following these steps preserves evidence and strengthens your ability to pursue fair compensation.