Dog bites can lead to very serious injuries. According to the American Veterinary Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 800,000 people are treated in emergency departments and 43 people die each year from dog bites. Sadly, injury rates from dog bites are highest among children ages 5-9.
If you’ve experienced a dog bite injury in Modesto, our team of experienced Modesto injury lawyers is here to help you navigate the complexities of dog bite laws and pursue the compensation you deserve.
You might be worried about hiring an attorney because of the potential cost, but at Berg Injury Lawyers, if you don’t win, you pay nothing. There’s also no cost or obligation to hire simply to speak to one of our lawyers. We call that our No Fee Guarantee®.
Contact our team today for a free consultation.
Understanding Dog Bite Laws in Modesto
Under California law, dog owners have specific legal responsibilities and can be held liable for injuries caused by their pets. Here’s a summary of key points regarding dog bite laws in the state:
Strict Liability for Dog Bites
- Owner’s Responsibility: Dog owners are strictly liable for any damages if their dog bites someone in a public place or who is lawfully in a private place (such as a delivery person stepping onto private property to make a delivery), regardless of the dog’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of such behavior.
- Exceptions: This rule does not apply to dogs used in military or police work under certain conditions, such as while the dog is assisting an officer in apprehending a suspect or defending itself.
Owner’s Duty After a Bite
- Preventing Further Incidents: If a dog has bitten a person, the owner must take necessary steps to prevent the dog from biting others.
- Multiple Bites: If a dog has bitten a person on two separate occasions, the victim, district attorney, or city attorney can take legal action to ensure the dog no longer poses a danger. This might include removing the dog from the area or, in severe cases, euthanizing the dog.
- Severe Injuries: For dogs trained to fight, attack, or kill, causing significant injury, similar legal actions can be taken to prevent future attacks.
Legal Actions and Exceptions
- Trespassers and Police Dogs: Legal action cannot be taken if the bite was inflicted on a trespasser or by a dog performing police or military duties.
- Additional Liability: These laws do not affect the owner’s liability under other legal provisions, ensuring comprehensive coverage for victims seeking justice.
Seeking Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries
Different types of damages may be available in dog bite cases. These include medical expenses, such as hospital visits, surgeries, medication, and ongoing treatments. You may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages due to your injuries, including time off work for medical appointments and recovery.
In addition to physical and financial damages, dog bite injuries can cause significant emotional distress. Pain and suffering damages compensate for the mental anguish, emotional trauma, and psychological impact of the dog bite, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) being around dogs after the attack, and distress from being left with disfiguring scars.
It’s important to understand the full extent of the damages you’ve experienced, so you can be sure you’re getting compensation that reflects the full extent of your suffering not just immediately after the attack, but into the future.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Incident
Taking the proper steps after a dog bite will ensure you minimize the physical harm you’ve suffered and position you for a favorable outcome in any ensuing injury claims. Here are the steps you should take:
1. Seek immediate medical attention and document your injuries. Dog bites can cause serious injuries, including puncture wounds, severe infections, and nerve damage. It’s vital to get medical treatment immediately to prevent complications and establish a record of your injuries.
2. Report the incident to local animal control. Contact your local animal control agency to report the dog bite. They will investigate and take appropriate actions to ensure public safety. This can prevent future attacks and hold the dog owner accountable.
3. Gather evidence and witness statements. Document the incident by taking photos of your injuries, the location where the attack occurred, and any visible signs of negligence, such as broken fences or lack of warning signs. Collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the incident. Their statements can strengthen your case if you decide to pursue legal action.
Contact Our Modesto Dog Bite Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Modesto, we can help. Though these cases can be complex, we do the work on your behalf, so you can focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation.
