Dog Bite Injury Lawyer in North Hollywood

Dog Bite Injury Attorney in North Hollywood Fights to Help Clients Seek Compensation for Damages in Dog Attacks

Dog bites can lead to serious injuries — including puncture wounds — and legal complications, especially when a dog bite injury requires medical treatment or legal action. The Shamsi Law Firm, APC provides assistance to the victims of a dog bite in North Hollywood. We guide clients through the complex legal process, helping them receive proper medical attention and documenting injuries for potential claims. We work diligently to pursue compensation for necessary treatments, including therapy and surgery for even some minor bites.

With a proven record in dog bite cases, we have secured millions in settlements on behalf of clients injured in dog attacks. We negotiate with insurance companies to pursue fair settlements. We recognize the long-term impacts of dog attacks, including the potential need for plastic surgery, and we fight to protect our clients’ rights and interests throughout the legal proceedings.

The Shamsi Law Firm, APC offers legal assistance for animal bites in North Hollywood. Contact us at(818) 764-7640(818) 764-7640 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a FREE consultation with us. Learn how we can guide you through the legal process and leverage our knowledge of dog bite cases to protect your rights.

Key Takeaways

• The Shamsi Law Firm APC offers legal assistance for dog bite victims in North Hollywood
• California law holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries their pets cause
• Victims have two years to file a personal injury claim for dog bite incidents
• The firm helps clients seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
• Reporting dog attacks to authorities is important for preventing future incidents and promoting public safety

Know Your Legal Rights After a Dog Bite Wound in North Hollywood

Legal Protections for Dog Bite Victims

California law offers strong protections for people injured in animal bites. Under the state’s strict liability statute, dog owners are responsible for injuries their pets cause, regardless of the animal’s prior behavior. This law covers injuries on public property and private property where the victim was lawfully present, including the owner’s property.

Victims have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In cases of severe injuries, a wrongful death claim may be filed. The Shamsi Law Firm, APC helps victims handle these legal protections, explaining their rights and options. Key legal protections include:

• Strict liability for dog owners
• Compensation for medical bills and lost income
• Coverage for injuries on public and private property
• Potential for punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Understanding California’s Dog Bite Law and Victim Protection

California enforces a strict liability rule for animal bites, holding owners fully responsible for injuries their pets cause—regardless of whether the dog has shown prior aggression. This law applies to bites occurring in public spaces or on private property where the victim is lawfully present. Unlike states with “one-bite” rules, California does not require victims to prove the owner knew their dog was dangerous.

If you have been the victim of a bite wound, you can seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including surgeries and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
• Wrongful death damages in fatal cases
• Potential punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

At The Shamsi Law Firm, APC, we represent people hurt in dog bite wounds across North Hollywood and surrounding neighborhoods. Sean Shamsi can assist you through the legal process, helping you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you need.

We know how to deal with other personal injury issues that may arise from dog attacks including:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Premises liability
• Catastrophic injury
• Pedestrian accidents
• Bicycle accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Slip and fall accidents
• Wrongful death and more

Whether you are dealing with dog bite wounds or need guidance from an attorney, we are here to provide the support you require. Contact us to speak with a North Hollywood attorney and start your path to justice today.

Determining Responsibility for Dog-Related Injuries in California

In California, the law holds the owner of the dog is responsible for injuries caused by their pets. Under the strict liability rule, dog owners are accountable for any injuries their dogs cause, regardless of the animal’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any aggressive tendencies.

There are a few exemptions to California’s strict liability rule:

• Government agencies working with dogs for police or military purposes are typically exempt from liability, under specific conditions.
• If the dog bit someone in response to harassment or provocation, a dog’s owner may avoid liability.
• Veterinarian liability is another exception, established by the Priebe v. Nelson case, which exempts owners from responsibility if a veterinarian is bitten while treating the dog, due to the inherent risks in the profession.

What if the Person Bitten Is Partly Responsible for the Dog Bite?

While California’s dog bite law primarily focuses on the liability of the dog owner, the victim can be partially responsible for their injuries, especially if they provoked the strange dog. If the victim’s actions contributed to the incident—such as approaching strange animals and provoking or harassing the unfamiliar dog—the compensation may be reduced under California’s pure comparative negligence rule.

For example, if a court determines that you were 20% at fault for the incident, your compensation will be reduced by that percentage. To protect your rights and maximize your settlement, it is imperative to work with an experienced dog bite injury lawyer who can advocate on your behalf.

Common Injuries in Animal Bites Cases

Wild animal bites — including dog and cat bites — can range from minor scratches to serious, life-altering conditions. Some common injuries include:

• Puncture Wounds: Minor wounds caused by the dog’s teeth that may become infected
• Lacerations and Abrasions: Cuts and deeper wounds that can vary in severity
• Fractured Bones: The force of the bite can cause cracked or broken bones
• Signs of Infections: Bites can lead to serious infections like rabies or tetanus if not properly treated, often requiring a tetanus shot or rabies vaccine as part of early medical care.
• Psychological Trauma: Emotional distress that may require long-term therapy
• Nerve Damage: Severe tissue tears or nerves that can result in temporary or permanent paralysis
• Scarring: Permanent scarring that may affect mobility or self-esteem
• Blood Loss: Serious bleeding can lead to additional medical complications

If you have sustained injuries from a bite wound, a dog bite treatment attorney can help you address your legal options and pursue compensation.