Bakersfield Dog Bite Lawyer
Being bitten by a dog can be an incredibly traumatic experience, and the aftermath can feel overwhelming. If the attack is severe, the health effects may linger for a long time, and the emotional toll can be just as lasting, leaving victims with anxiety or fear. Along with the physical and emotional injuries, victims may also face rising medical bills and the added stress of dealing with California’s legal system.
Working with a Bakersfield dog bite lawyer can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation for your injuries. Our skilled personal injury attorneys could guide you through each step of the process, providing the support you need to focus on your recovery.
Let CD Law investigate the details of your case, establish who is responsible, and build a strong argument on your behalf. Call today to get started.
Dog Bite Cases and Liability
In California, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets. Under California Civil Code § 3342, if a dog bites someone, the owner is responsible for the injuries, even if the dog had never shown aggressive behavior before. This law applies as long as the person who was bitten was lawfully in a public or private place at the time of the attack.
However, even with this law in place, figuring out who is at fault can get complicated. A Bakersfield dog bite attorney could look at the specific details of your case to determine liability. If the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing, for example, the owner might not be fully responsible.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites can cause a wide range of serious injuries, often requiring immediate medical care and sometimes long-term treatment. Some common injuries include:
- Puncture wounds: Even small bites can lead to infections like tetanus or rabies
- Lacerations: Deep cuts can damage tissue and often lead to permanent scarring
- Fractures: Forceful bites can break bones, particularly in the hands or arms
- Nerve damage: Some bites can cause lasting nerve issues, leading to chronic pain or limited mobility
- Emotional trauma: Beyond the physical harm, dog bite victims often experience anxiety, PTSD, or a fear of animals
The aftermath of a dog bite can involve extensive medical care, from emergency treatment to surgery and rehabilitation. A Bakersfield lawyer could help you calculate all of your damages—including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering—so that you are compensated fairly after a dog bite.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim After a Dog Bite
If you have been involved in a dog bite incident, acting quickly is key. In California, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim.
A dog bite lawyer in Bakersfield could help you build a strong case by collecting critical evidence such as:
- Medical records documenting your injuries
- Photos of your injuries and the location of the attack
- Witness statements from those who saw the incident
- Records of the dog’s behavior, including any prior reports of aggression
Once the evidence is gathered, your lawyer will work directly with the insurance companies to negotiate a fair settlement. If the insurance company does not offer reasonable compensation, your attorney can take the case to court to fight for what you deserve.
Call a Bakersfield Dog Bite Attorney for Assistance
If a dog has bitten you or someone you love, you do not have to handle everything on your own. A Bakersfield dog bite lawyer from CD Law could give you the legal support you need while you focus on recovering. We make it easy to stay in touch—we are always available to text or call. By reaching out, you can start the process of securing compensation and taking the first steps toward moving forward with your life.