Dog Bite Lawyer Los Angeles
Suffering from a dog bite attack is a devastating experience in life. Even a minor dog bite results in deep puncture wounds, permanent scarring, and psychological trauma. Suppose you or your loved one is facing a dog bite incident in Los Angeles. In that case, our experienced dog bite lawyers in Los Angeles are ready to fight on your behalf and recover financial compensation for your damages.
Agemian Law Group has a stellar reputation as a top personal injury law firm in Los Angeles. We let our dog bite injury victims focus on healing while our lawyers handle all the legal complexities that arise during your dog bite lawsuits.
Typical Settlement
Range
10+
Years Experience
24/7
Available
100%
Contingency Fee
California's Strict Liability Law Protects Dog Bite Victims
Fortunately, California protects the legal rights of dog attack victims by imposing strict liability on dog owners. Under California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are liable even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. Similarly, it doesn’t matter if the victim was lawfully present on public property or private property; the pet owner is responsible for the damages.
This powerful statute requires only two elements for a successful claim: the bite occurred, and the victim was lawfully present on public property or private property where they were invited or performing job duties. Unlike the “one-bite rule” used in other states, California law does not require victims to prove that the owner knew the dog was dangerous or that the owner was negligent.
Elements of a Dog Bite Claim
Under the strict liability laws of California, you don’t need to prove the owner’s negligence as part of your dog bite claim. However, you still need to demonstrate the factors below to give yourself the best chance at a successful dog bite injury claim.
The Bite Occurred
You must prove that you didn't provoke or incite the dog in any way, before it caused the injury.
Lawful Presence
The pet owner is typically liable for bites that occur when the victim is legally present on their property, such as public sidewalks or other locations where people have a legal right to go.
Owner Liability
If the pet owner didn't take any precautionary steps to control their aggressive dog, they may be found negligent.
Important:
Most dog bite claims are covered by the pet owner's insurance company, which typically includes liability coverage of $100,000 to $300,000 for animal attacks.
When Dog Owners Are Liable for Bite Injuries in Los Angeles
Dog owners are liable when the victim was lawfully present, which includes public sidewalks, parks, or private property where the victim was invited or performing job duties, such as mail delivery.
Public Property
Owners are fully liable if the dog bite occurs in any public space, including sidewalks, streets, parks, beaches, or other similar areas. No invitation or permission required.
Private Property
Liability applies when victims are guests, social visitors, delivery workers, postal carriers, or any other individuals lawfully present.
Limited Exceptions
Provocation and trespassing are rare exceptions, but require extreme circumstances to eliminate owner liability.
Our Los Angeles Dog Bite Case Process
Most dog bite cases settle within 3-6 months, though complex cases may take 8-18 months.
Free Consultation
Case evaluation and evidence review
Timeline: Day 1
At first, our dog bite lawyers will evaluate your case, review any available evidence, and explain your legal rights under California Law.
Demand Package
Comprehensive presentation to the insurance company
Timeline: Weeks 4-8
We compile all documentation, calculate full compensation value, and submit a detailed demand package to the insurance company.
Negotiation
Strategic negotiation to maximize your settlement
Timeline: Weeks 8-16
Our dog bite attorney reject any lowball offers and negotiate aggressively with insurance adjusters to obtain maximum compensation.
Settlement
Final agreement and compensation received
Timeline: Months 3-6
Most cases settle before trial. You receive your compensation minus our contingency fee. If needed, we’re prepared to litigate.
Investigation
Thorough evidence gathering and case development
Timeline: Weeks 1-4
Our team carefully gathers your medical records & animal control reports to build a strong case. At the same time, we interview witnesses to know all possible facts of your case. With years of experience, we understand the insurance companies tactics and how to overcome them successfully.
Most Common Dog Bite Injuries We Handle
Recovering from a serious dog bite injury involves dealing with ongoing challenges, from suffering emotional distress to physical pain and financial strain. Now, you are not alone in this tough time. Our dog bite attorney can handle all kinds of dog bite injuries including deep puncture wounds, broken bones, facial lacerations, nerve damage, and post traumatic stress disorder. We’ll help hold the negligent parties responsible under California’s dog bite laws, so you can get fair settlement for future medical care, lost income, and rehabilitation.
Puncture Wounds
Deep tissue damage caused by dog’s sharp teeth, piercing through the skin. It requires emergency care, antibiotics, and wound cleaning.
Settlement Range:
$15,000 – $80,000
Facial Injuries
Dog bites affecting facial area through deep cuts, puncture wounds, deep lacerations, tissue damage, and permanent scarring. These injuries require reconstructive surgery and multiple procedures.
Settlement Range:
$100K – $2.4M
Nerve Damage
Nerve damage from dog attacks result in loss of sensation or motor function. Depending on how severe the wound is, treatment requires neurological evaluation and long-term therapy.
Settlement Range:
$50,000 – $500,000
Psychological Trauma
It refers to PTSD, anxiety, depression, and lifelong fear after being attacked or bitten by a dog. Even if physical injuries heal, the psychological impact can last longer and may require counseling or therapy to fully recover.
Settlement Range:
$20,000 – $150,000
Dangerous Dog Breeds and Attack Severity
Based on bite incident reports in California, common dog breed involved in serious injuries are Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds. Being aware of these breed statistically involved in more severe attacks can help you analyze the owner’s strict liability.
Pit Bulls
In California, 65% of catastrophic tissue damage is caused by powerful bites and tenacious grip of Pit Bull Terriers.
Rottweilers
This dog breed possess tremendous jaw strength, leading to crush bones and worst consequences to the victims. Around, 10% fatal attacks are caused by Rottweilers.
German Shepherds
With their strong protective instincts, German shepherds often cause serious injuries when they attack. About 5% of catastrophic injuries in Los Angeles involve this dog breed.
Dangerous Dogs
When a dog is officially declared as dangerous, California law enforces mandatory safety measures and increases the owner’s liability for any harm caused by the animal
How Much Compensation Can You Recover?
Dog bite settlements in Los Angeles typically range from $50,000 for minor injuries to $3 million for severe facial injuries or child victims, with the average settlement between $30,000 and $50,000.
Recent Case Settlements
$85,000:Settlement for puncture wounds to the arm requiring surgery and extensive physical therapy
$425,000:Settlement for facial scarring to a 7-year-old child requiring plastic surgery
$1.2M:Settlement for severe facial injuries requiring multiple reconstructive surgeries
$2.4M:Settlement for a child with permanent nerve damage and facial disfigurement
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is unique and evaluated on its specific facts.
Economic Damages
→ Emergency room and hospital bills
→ Surgery and reconstructive procedures
→ Ongoing medical treatment and therapy
→ Lost wages and income
→ Future medical expenses
Non-Economic Damages
→ Pain and suffering
→ Permanent scarring and disfigurement
→ Emotional distress and PTSD
→ Loss of enjoyment of life
→ Psychological counseling needs
What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite
A dog bite can occur anywhere instantly, leaving you injured, frightened, and uncertain about what to do next. By following the right precautionary steps, you can avoid serious health complications and improve your chances of getting fair compensation.
Seek Medical Treatment
After being bitten by a dog, you should seek medical treatment immediately to address your injuries and reduce the risks of infection. Go to the ER immediately for rabies shots, wound cleaning, and injury documentation. Even minor bites require medical attention.
Document Everything
Take photos of injuries, the dog, and the location. Get witness contact information while details are fresh.
Get Owner Information
Obtain the dog owner's name, address, phone, and homeowner's insurance details for your claim.
Report to Authorities
File a report with LA County Animal Control and local police to create an official record of the attack.
Avoid Insurance Contact
Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies before consulting an attorney.
Contact Attorney
Call (866) 865-8817 within 24-48 hours to preserve evidence and protect your legal rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Dog Bite Lawyer
How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in California?
How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in California?
California law provides a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you do not file within this timeframe, you permanently lose your right to seek legal remedies and financial compensation in future. You should contact our dog bite attorney after the animal attack injuries. This will help preserve evidences necessary to win case and recover compensation for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering.
What if I were partially at fault for provoking the dog?
What if I were partially at fault for provoking the dog?
California’s strict liability statute does not apply if you intentionally provoked the dog through harassment, abuse, or threatening behavior. However, the provocation defense is rarely successful because it requires proof that you engaged in deliberate conduct that would naturally cause any dog to attack. Simple actions, such as petting, walking near, or startling a dog, do not constitute legal provocation.
Will the dog be euthanized if I sue?
Will the dog be euthanized if I sue?
Whether a dog is euthanized is a decision made by animal control based on the severity of the attack, the dog’s history, and whether the dog was provoked. Your civil lawsuit for compensation does not automatically result in euthanasia. Your right to compensation is separate from animal control’s decision about the dog’s fate.
Do I really need a lawyer for a dog bite?
Do I really need a lawyer for a dog bite?
Hiring a dog bite lawyer increases your settlement by an average of 3.5 times compared to representing yourself. Our dog bite attorney understand California’s strict liability laws, maximize damages for scarring and trauma, negotiate effectively with insurance companies who routinely offer lowball settlements, handle all legal procedures, and are willing to file a lawsuit if necessary. The contingency fee structure means you pay nothing unless you win.
What if the dog owner has no insurance?
What if the dog owner has no insurance?
Most dog bite claims are covered by the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, which typically includes liability coverage ranging from $100,000 to $300,000. If the owner has no insurance, you can pursue their personal assets, umbrella policies, or explore landlord liability if applicable. Our Los Angeles dog bite lawyers investigate all potential recovery sources to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Can I sue if bitten on someone else's property?
Can I sue if bitten on someone else's property?
Yes, you can sue as long as you were lawfully present on the property at the time of the incident. Guests, social visitors, delivery workers, postal carriers, and anyone performing lawful duties on private property are protected under California’s strict liability statute. Both the property owner and dog owner may be liable depending on the circumstances.