The U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention reports that approximately 4.7 million dog bites take place every year in the United States. In 2011, Los Angeles led the nation’s cities in dog attacks, according to the U.S. Postal Service. San Diego was second. If you are the victim of a dog bite attack in southern California, contact an experienced personal injury attorney immediately. You have the right to be compensated for medical expenses and lost wages.
More than half of all dog bite victims are small children. Worst of all, from twelve to twenty people die in the U.S. each year from dog bites. Dog owners should act to protect others, and parents should teach children to avoid provoking dogs and to avoid strange dogs altogether. Obviously, every dog bite is different, but amputations, disfigurement, and long-term psychological injuries are often the results of dog bite attacks.
Your Right to Compensation After a Dog Attack
Dog bites are more common, and more serious, than many people realize. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, nearly 30,000 reconstructive procedures were performed on dog bite victims in a single year. Insurance data also shows that dog bites account for a significant portion of homeowner liability claims.
California law generally holds dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their pets, even if the dog has never shown aggression before. This means victims of dog bites may have the right to pursue compensation for their injuries.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Southern California, you may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. An experienced California personal injury attorney can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, don’t wait, contact an experienced California personal injury attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.