Were you bitten and injured by someone else’s dog? Have you or someone you loved been attacked by someone else’s animal? Dog bites can be a traumatic experience, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. Belal Hamideh, an experienced California dog bite lawyer, is here to help you navigate the complexities of your dog bite case and represent you as aggressively as possible so that you recover the maximum compensation for all that you’ve been through.
Who’s Liable for My Dog Bite Injury?
In California, a dog owner is held responsible for any damages caused by their dog, whether the incident occurs in a public place or on private property. This principle, known as “strict liability,” means that dog owners are liable for their dog’s actions. Even if the dog has never shown aggression before, if it bites and injures someone, the owner is legally accountable.
This is true even if a child was controlling the dog at the time, a dog sitter, and so forth. When you sit down with Belal for a free case evaluation, we’ll investigate to determine who is liable for your injuries.
To Have a Dog Bite Case, You Must Have Been Allowed on the Property
To have a case, you, the victim, must have been allowed to be where you were when the dog bit you. For example, you need to have been invited and/or allowed on the dog owner’s property with permission, such as an invitation, or you were lawfully performing your duties, as a postal worker, for example.
You can’t have been trespassing or somewhere you weren’t allowed to be when the dog bit you. If so, then you don’t have a case. This legal framework ensures that victims are protected and can pursue compensation for their injuries.
Should I Receive Medical Care for a Dog Bite?
Absolutely. Simply put, you don’t know where the dog has been, nor do you know the health of the dog. Dog bite injuries and consequences vary in severity, ranging from scratches and cuts to deep puncture wounds and torn flesh and even in a small percentage, rabies. In some cases, victims may suffer additional injuries, such as head injuries from falling during the incident. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention after a dog bite, even if the wounds appear minor, as complications can arise later.
What Do I Do After a Dog Bite?
After a dog bite incident, documenting the injuries and gathering evidence is vital. Taking photographs of the injuries, the dog, and the scene can strengthen your case. The more you can document the scene safely and without putting any party at further harm, the better.
When Should I File a Dog Bite Case?
When dealing with dog bite injuries, it’s essential to act promptly. Waiting too long to seek medical attention or consult an attorney can weaken your case. And in the case you are dealing with rabies, there is no time to waste. California law allows victims two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit, but initiating the process sooner increases your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can help.
Belal Hamideh: Your California Dog Bite Lawyer
With a focus on aggressive representation, we work diligently to identify liable parties and help victims receive the compensation they need to cover medical expenses, pain, suffering, and other damages.
If you’ve been injured by a dog bite in California, regardless of whether the dog owner is a friend, relative, or neighbor, it’s worth it to reach out to an experienced attorney. Schedule a free case evaluation today by messaging us through our site or calling.