In 2022, California saw over 48,000 emergency room visits due to dog bites. Dog bites can happen unexpectedly, leaving victims to deal with physical pain, emotional trauma, and mounting medical bills. These attacks are not just minor inconveniences—they often have long-lasting consequences, from serious injuries to significant emotional distress.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a dog bite incident, it’s important to act quickly and consult with a dog bite attorney. The legal team at Arshakyan Law can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for your injuries, pain, and suffering. With their support, you can ensure that the responsible party is held accountable and you get the justice you deserve.
Common Causes of Dog Bites
So why do dog bites happen? Several factors can contribute, but the common denominator is often a lack of responsibility on the owner’s part.
- Lack of Responsibility: Often, dog bites occur due to the owner's negligence, such as failing to train or control their dog.
- Untrained or Aggressive Behavior: Dogs that are not properly socialized may exhibit aggressive tendencies, increasing the risk of bites.
- Territorial Instincts: Dogs may lash out when they feel their space is being invaded, even unintentionally.
- Unsupervised Encounters: Dogs allowed to roam freely without a leash or supervision pose a significant risk to others.
- Preventable Incidents: These bites often happen in parks, sidewalks, or yards but are avoidable with responsible ownership.
Types of Dog Bites: Minor Injuries to Life-Threatening Wounds
Dog bites can range from minor punctures to life-threatening injuries. Some victims experience minor scratches that heal quickly, but others suffer deep tissue damage, infections, or nerve damage. In severe cases, bites can result in permanent scarring or the loss of a limb. No matter the severity, dog bite victims should seek legal advice to understand their rights and pursue compensation.
Common Breeds Associated with Bites
While certain breeds are often associated with bites—such as pit bulls, rottweilers, and German shepherds—it’s important to note that any dog can bite under the right (or wrong) circumstances. Breed alone does not determine behavior - how a dog is trained and handled plays a significant role. That’s why focus on the owner's responsibility rather than blaming the breed.
The Severity and Emotional Toll of a Dog Bite
Dog bites vary in severity. Some may cause minor scrapes, but others can leave deep lacerations, nerve damage, and permanent scarring. Victims often need multiple surgeries and lengthy recovery periods. Beyond the physical pain, the emotional toll can be just as devastating. Victims may develop anxiety, a fear of dogs, and even PTSD. For children, these emotional scars can last well into adulthood. If you or a loved one has experienced this kind of trauma, don’t overlook the importance of legal action. An experienced dog bite lawyer can help you recover damages not only for your physical injuries but also for the emotional impact.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
Immediate Steps to Take After a Bite
If a dog has bitten you, the first step is to address your health. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention immediately, even if the bite seems minor. Some bites can cause infections or lead to serious conditions like rabies. Always document the injury with photos and medical records, as these will be vital in building your case. Additionally, gather information about the dog and its owner. If there were witnesses, take their contact details, as their testimony could be valuable when pursuing legal action. This documentation will help your attorney build a strong case.
Reporting the Bite to Authorities
Reporting the bite to local authorities is another vital step. By doing so, you help prevent future incidents and provide a paper trail of the attack. Authorities may also require the dog to be quarantined or evaluated for rabies, ensuring public safety. Reporting also strengthens your legal claim, as it shows that the incident was serious enough to involve law enforcement.
Understanding Dog Bite Liability in Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, dog owners are generally held responsible for any injuries caused by their pets under California’s "strict liability" laws. This means that an owner can be liable for a dog bite, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression or biting. Victims do not need to prove negligence or fault; simply being bitten is enough to pursue compensation. Whether the bite occurred on public property or lawfully on private property, the owner can be held accountable for damages, including medical expenses and emotional suffering.
Arshakyan Law: Your Partner in Dog Bite Cases
Dog bite injuries can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Arshakyan Law, they focus on representing victims of dog bite incidents, ensuring that negligent dog owners are held accountable. When you choose to work with Arshakyan Law Firm, you can expect the following:
Legal Guidance
Our attorneys have extensive experience in dog bite cases and will provide you with actionable advice throughout the legal process. We understand how complicated a dog bit case can be and will work diligently to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
Thorough Investigation
We will conduct a detailed investigation of the incident, gathering evidence and witness statements to build a strong case on your behalf. Our team will leave no stone unturned to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.
Negotiation and Settlement
Our lawyers are skilled negotiators and will work tirelessly to achieve a fair settlement with the insurance companies involved. However, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial if a fair offer is not received.
Personalized Attention
At Arshakyan Law Firm, we believe in providing personalized attention to every client. We understand that each case is unique and will tailor our approach to meet your specific needs and objectives.
Contact a Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer Today
We know that dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite incident can be emotionally challenging. Our team is here to offer compassionate support throughout the process, ensuring you feel heard, valued, and supported. Call us at 888-851-5005 or connect with us online to schedule a consultation and let our team advocate for your rights.