A dog may be man’s best friend—but when one turns aggressive, the consequences can be life-changing. In Southern California, where outdoor living and pet-friendly communities are the norm, dog bites are more common than many people realize. If you or your child has been injured by a dog, California law is on your side—but acting quickly and knowing your rights is essential.
At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we help dog bite victims seek justice and compensation for their physical, emotional, and financial suffering.
California’s Strict Liability Law for Dog Bites
Unlike some states that give dog owners a “free bite” before holding them accountable, California is a strict liability state. This means:
- The owner is legally responsible for any injuries their dog causes, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression.
- Victims do not need to prove negligence—only that the bite occurred in a public place or while lawfully on private property.
This applies to both adults and children, and includes bites that happen in parks, on sidewalks, or even in the dog owner’s own home if the victim was there legally.
Injuries from Dog Bites Go Beyond Skin Deep
Dog bite injuries can range from minor to catastrophic and often include:
- Deep lacerations and puncture wounds
- Nerve damage and permanent scarring
- Infections such as rabies or MRSA
- Emotional trauma, especially in children
In some cases, reconstructive surgery, long-term physical therapy, or psychological counseling may be required. At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we ensure that all current and future damages are accounted for in your claim—not just the initial medical bills.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
If you’ve been bitten, taking the following steps can help protect both your health and your legal case:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even for seemingly minor wounds.
- Report the incident to your local animal control agency or police department.
- Get the dog owner’s contact information, including insurance details if available.
- Document everything, including photos of injuries, the location of the incident, and witness statements.
- Avoid giving statements to the dog owner’s insurance company before speaking with an attorney.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
While the dog’s owner is the primary party responsible, other entities could be held liable in certain situations, such as:
- Landlords who knew of a tenant’s dangerous dog
- Dog walkers or pet sitters entrusted with control of the animal
- Businesses or property owners that allowed a known aggressive dog on premises
A skilled personal injury lawyer can help identify all liable parties and maximize your chances of full compensation.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Dog bite victims in California may be able to recover damages for:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Property damage (e.g., torn clothing, broken glasses)
If the bite was caused by a particularly reckless or malicious act—such as encouraging the dog to attack—punitive damages may also be available.
Don’t Let the Clock Run Out
California imposes a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including dog bites. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to pursue compensation.
At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we offer compassionate, experienced legal guidance for victims of dog and animal attacks. We’ll handle the legal side so you can focus on healing.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog in Southern California, call (310) 209-1600 for a free consultation. You shouldn’t have to bear the cost of someone else’s negligence. Let us help you fight for the justice you deserve.
