Dog Bite

What If the Person Bitten Is Partly Responsible?

California’s dog bite law primarily concerns the dog owner’s liability. However, there are instances where a person bitten by a dog could share responsibility. For example, the law says a victim does not have grounds to sue if they were bitten by a dog defending itself from the victim’s “annoying, harassing, or provoking acts.”

The Veterinarian’s Rule

There’s also the “veterinarian’s rule,” highlighted in the Supreme Court of California case of Priebe v. Nelson. This legal doctrine generally exempts a dog owner from liability if they seek out veterinary care for their dog and, during treatment, the dog bites the veterinarian. The rule is based on the principle of “primary assumption of risk,” which assumes that veterinarians understand and accept the occupational hazards of their jobs, including the risk of bites.

California’s Pure Comparative Negligence Rule

If you are partly to blame in a dog bite case in California, it’s important to understand the state’s “pure comparative negligence” doctrine. Under this rule, if you provoked the dog or otherwise contributed to your injuries, the compensation available to you can decrease based on your percentage of fault. So, if you were 40 percent responsible for the incident, your payout would be reduced by 40 percent. This rule underscores the importance of working with a knowledgeable dog bite lawyer to protect your rights.

How Long Can It Take to Settle a Dog Bite Case?

The time it takes to settle a dog bite lawsuit can vary widely depending on the circumstances. Simple cases could last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, while more complex cases could take years. Factors such as the complexity of the case, the willingness of the parties to negotiate, and the court system’s schedule can all influence the duration of the legal process. However, while aiming for a quick settlement might be tempting, doing so is rarely in your best interest.
Rushing into a settlement might mean you don’t fully understand the extent of your injuries or their long-term effects. A speedy settlement might not account for your projected future expenses if your medical treatments are ongoing. Therefore, it’s best to consult a skilled dog bite lawyer who can ensure that you don’t settle for less than what you rightfully deserve.

What Are Common Injuries in Dog Bite Cases?

Understanding the potential scope of dog bite or dog attack injuries can help you seek appropriate medical treatment and aid in any legal proceedings that follow. Common dog bite injuries include the following:

• Lacerations
• Puncture Wounds
• Fractures
• Contusions
• Nerve Injuries

• Permanent Scarring and Disfigurement
• Soft Tissue Injuries
• Tissue Necrosis
• Emotional Trauma

What to Do If You Are Attacked by a Dog in Southern California

If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog in California, taking certain steps to protect your well-being and legal rights is essential. Here’s what you should do:

• Seek immediate medical attention for your injuries.
• Identify the dog and get their owner’s name and contact information.
• Locate eyewitnesses and ask for their statements and contact details.
• Take pictures or video footage of your wounds.
• Make notes about the location and circumstances of the attack.
• Alert your local animal control authorities and the police if necessary.
• Complete an official incident report.

• Confirm the dog’s vaccination history.
• Ask the dog owner for their insurance information.
• Document your recovery in a “pain journal.”
• Save all medical documentation and invoices from your treatment.
• Document any income losses you experience due to the incident.
• Speak with an experienced dog bite lawyer in North Hollywood.

What Damages Could Be Available in a Dog Bite Claim?

A dog bite injury can leave you with ongoing medical and financial complications that affect all aspects of your life. To alleviate these burdens, the law allows you to recover money for the following:

• Hospital bills
• Ongoing medical treatments
• Transportation costs for medical appointments
• Wages lost due to absences from work
• Diminished future earning capacity

• Physical pain and emotional anguish
• Mental trauma
• Diminished quality of life
• Attorney’s fees
• Damage to personal property

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in California?

California law allows you two years from the date a dog bit you to file most dog bite injury lawsuits. Adhering to this time frame is extremely important. If you don’t, you risk losing your ability to file a legal claim seeking compensation for your injuries.

While the two-year deadline is standard, there are exceptions that arise in uncommon scenarios. For instance, different rules might apply if you were a minor when bitten or if the extent of your injuries wasn’t immediately apparent.

This is why consulting an experienced North Hollywood attorney is essential after any dog bite injury. A lawyer can assist you in identifying all legal deadlines that apply to your case and handle all the complex procedural aspects of filing a lawsuit.