DOG BITES
Our office handles dog bite cases. The liability of the owner of a dog who bites a person is set by statute in California. California Civil Code §3342 provides that the owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place.
If you or a family member has been bitten by a dog, there are important steps to take. First and most importantly, you should get a medical examination to make sure that you have not been infected by any diseases carried by the dog. You should also attempt to identify the animal by finding out the name and address of the owner and the dog's license information, if it is wearing a tag. A report should also be filed with Animal Control. Under certain circumstances Animal Control may wish to quarantine the animal.
You should obtain the names and addresses of any witnesses and take photographs of the location where the bite occurred. You should also take photographs of any wounds or damages to your clothing which have occurred. Bruising may not occur until several hours or several days after the bite. If later bruises appear, you should take photographs of them also.
In many cases, biting dogs may have previously bitten other people. The duties of dog owners in such cases is stated by California Civil Code §3342.5. Under certain circumstances a court can require that the offending animal be destroyed.
If you or a family member has been bitten by a dog, you should contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation.
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