Granite Bay Dog Bite Lawyer

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Over five million people in the United States are injured or bitten by dogs yearly. The injuries can be catastrophic and even life-threatening when a dog attacks someone.

The most prominent dog bite victims are children; over 60 percent are younger than 12. While all children and adults must learn how to be safe around dogs, pet owners are typically responsible for the actions of their dogs, even on their own property. 

California Law Applies Strict Liability to Owners of Dogs

It is essential to identify the vicious dog's owner because, under California Civil Code section 3342, the dog owner is held strictly liable for any harm caused by the dog. Strict liability effectively means the victim does not need to prove that the dog owner was negligent. The owner is usually liable if a dog attacks and bites someone.

Notable Exceptions to the Strict Liability Statute

You must be aware of some important exceptions to the strict liability dog bite statute.

  • First is the provocation defense. The strict liability statute does not apply if the dog bite victim provoked the dog that caused it to bite. So, for example, if you were involved in an altercation with the owner and the dog bites you, the owner may have a viable defense against a claim of strict liability. However, the defense of provocation does not apply if a child under five was bitten by the dog.
  • Second, the strict liability statute does not apply if you were not bitten. For example, the strict liability statute does not apply if you were knocked down by a dog while jogging or walking around Granite Bay. However, you could still have a viable personal injury claim, which must be based on a negligence theory instead of strict liability.
  • Third, if you were bitten by a dog while you were at your place of work and the owner of the dog is your supervisor or manager, the statute would not apply. Instead, you could pursue damages through a worker's compensation claim.
Financial Restitution in a Dog Bite Injury Claim

If you or a family member were bitten by a dog, you could pursue financial restitution for harm and losses associated with the bite. For example, if you had to seek medical treatment for the wounds caused by the attack, those medical expenses could be recovered through a claim. You can also pursue reimbursement for lost wages if you must take time off work to heal.

You can also pursue damages for your pain, suffering, and anguish. For more information, contact a Granite Bay Personal Injury Lawyer.

Watch the following video for more on the types of damages claimed in a dog bite case.

Dog Bite Attorneys in Granite Bay, CA

If you or a family member has suffered severe injuries in a dog bite incident, please call our experienced Granite Bay dog bite lawyers at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly, and compassionate advice.

When you make the call, we will review the incident's details and determine the best way to proceed with a claim for damages. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no upfront fees, and we only get paid after the successful resolution of your case.

We are members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.

See our case history of verdicts and settlements and our client reviews on GoogleYelp, and Avvo.

Editor's Note: updated [cha 7.24.23] Photo by Pixabay sb bw [cs 591]

Client Reviews
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"Me and my wife; had a car accident. We were amazed how easy, professional, friendly attorney Ed Smith is along with his staff. Everybody is amazing. Thank you so much, we are very impressed!" Alex & Dinah M.
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"Ed Smith and his office team took on a difficult personal injury case on my behalf and for the passenger in my car. Ed is a top- notch attorney. His staff couldn't have been more helpful and kind. No need to look elsewhere. I give Ed Smith my highest recommendation." Beverly
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"Ed and Robert have been taking great care of my husband and I for the past 5+ years. They are always there when you have a problem and a quick resolution! Even when the issues have nothing to do with them. They are willing to help ease the pain off your shoulders. They are as good as it gets! Thank you again for everything." Annie T.
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"Very professional. Great team, staff and service all around. Mr Smith was very honest, straight forward with his advice. He gives the word "attorney" an honest reputation. I will seek his council anytime, and would recommend him at the drop of a dime." Jeremy M.
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"I would highly recommend Ed Smith to any friends or family in need of a personal injury attorney. Ed, and his staff, are very caring on top of being very experienced in this field. The staff always keeps you informed of the status of your case and they are always easy to reach by phone." Shannon D.
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"Edward Smith law offices provide competent, thorough, and personable help for victims of personal injury. When you first meet the staff you know you contacted the right office. This law office treats clients like people. I recommend this office to anyone seeking representation regarding personal injury." David M.