Dog Bites

Contra Costa County - Alameda County - Dog Bite - Animal Attack Injuries

If you are the victim of a severe dog bite, especially if attacked by an aggressive breed such as German Shepherd, Doberman, or Pit Bull Terrier, contact an experienced dog bite liability attorney at any of our four Bay Area Injury Law Center offices. Our experience in negotiating and litigating dog bite and animal attack cases can help you receive a prompt and favorable settlement.

Victims of dog bites require immediate medical attention. Almost always, a medical doctor will prescribe antibiotic medicine for any animal attack to prevent infection. Failure to get quick medical attention not only poses additional health risks, it may also adversely affect your case if you decide to file a lawsuit against the dog owner whose animal attacked you.

Unfortunately, children are the most frequent dog bite victims, and often they are bitten in the face. This can mean huge medical bills, often including plastic or reconstructive surgery to prevent or repair severe disfigurement. Insurance companies in the United States will likely pay out well over $350 million to injured dog bite victims this year.

The legal rights of a dog bite or animal attack victim depend largely upon where, and under what circumstances, the attack occurred. In most cases, states make the owner responsible for all dog bites, even if the animal has not shown any previous aggression. In California, any owner may be held liable for dog bites even if they were not negligent. This is called "strict liability". But, remember, "strict liability" only applies to dog bites. It does not apply if the dog only pushes over the victim. If there is no bite, you must prove negligence. Negligence may be proved by showing the owner violated a local leash law or maintained custody or control of the dog with knowledge that it was dangerous or aggressive.

The Injury Law Center provides free consultations about dog bite and animal attack claims in California. If you choose Jack Bloxham as your legal counsel, you'll never have an out-of-pocket expense, and you won't pay us a dime unless we achieve a settlement in your favor. We have the legal experience and resources available to expertly evaluate your animal injury, while aggressively pursuing your claim. For additional information, contact us in San Jose, the FFremont-Hayward-Union City area, or Walnut Creek.