5 out of 5 on
Ventura Dog Bite Attorneys
Legal Help After a Dog Bite or Attack in Ventura
Dog bites can cause serious injuries, partly due to the fact that the risk of infection is very high. You or your loved one may not only require intensive antibiotics and potentially other drug treatments, but may need multiple surgeries to repair the damage done by the dog bite(s). Physical injuries are not the only consequences of a dog attack, however. Being attacked or mauled by a dog is a traumatic experience and can result in anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These are serious conditions that require serious treatment. To help you get the money you need for adequate medical care and to overcome the emotional distress and other losses from the animal attack, it is important to access information about your legal rights and options.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, Ventura personal injury lawyer Renée J. Nordstrand-Black can help you hold the dog owner liable for negligence. To discuss your experience with our legal team, call us for a consultation today at (866) 298-2041.
California Dog Bite Law
Under California Civil Code 3342, the owner of any dog that bites and causes injury to another individual in a public place or when they are lawfully in a private place, may be held liable for the damages suffered. An exception to this rule would be in the event that a military or police dog causes injury while defending itself, a peace officer, or another person against "annoying, harassing, or provoking [actions]" or physical attack.
If another person’s dog bites you, other than in the circumstances described above, you have the right to hold the dog’s owner responsible for paying you compensation to cover damages such as medical bills, loss of income, loss of future income, pain and suffering, and even emotional distress. The effects of a dog bite can go far beyond the physical as they can cause unsightly scarring and deformities. Disfigurement and permanent scarring are serious and are considered damages that an individual may seek compensation for as well. It is the dog owner’s responsibility to make sure you get all the help and support you need.
It is important to note that a trespasser has no right to bring action against a dog owner if they are bitten while unlawfully on a property. Even if lawfully on a property, if a dog is provoked into an act of aggression (such as by being hit or kicked), the person bitten may or may not be able to pursue legal action.
Knowing When a Dog Owner is Negligent
Dogs make great pets when properly trained and managed, but, unfortunately, many people do not take the responsibility of owning a dog seriously and create dangerous situations for others. Dogs that are not exercised, trained, fed regularly, or otherwise treated properly can become fearful, anxious, and even aggressive. In other cases, owners may train their dog to behave viciously. These behaviors can lead to dog bites or attacks that cause devastating injuries to unsuspecting adults and children.
If a dog owner is negligent in their duty to provide a safe environment for visitors to their property or to prevent aggressive behavior on the part of their dog in a public place, they may be held liable for any injuries that result.
If a dog owner is in violation of any Ventura regulations, then they may be considered negligent and liable for any injuries caused by any vicious or aggressive actions.
Obtaining the Money You Are Entitled To
Medical care and emotional support are necessary after a traumatic dog attack and the Ventura dog bite attorneys at NordstrandBlack PC is determined to help you get the money you need for the care and support you deserve. To find out more about your legal rights and options, contact us for a consultation today.