If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Orange County, California, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation. California’s strict liability laws hold dog owners accountable for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge of its viciousness.
Understanding California’s Dog Bite Laws
Under California Civil Code Section 3342, a dog owner is strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog if the bite occurs while the victim is lawfully on public or private property. This means that even if the dog has never shown aggressive behavior before, the owner can still be held responsible for any injuries the dog causes. However, there are exceptions to this rule. If the victim was trespassing on the property or provoking the dog at the time of the attack, the owner’s liability may be reduced or eliminated.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Orange County
If you are bitten by a dog in Orange County, it’s essential to take immediate action:
Seek Medical Attention: Even if the bite seems minor, it’s important to get medical care promptly. Dog bites can lead to infections and other complications.
Report the Incident: Notify local animal control or law enforcement about the bite. This helps ensure the dog is properly quarantined and its vaccination status is verified.
Gather Information: Obtain the dog’s owner’s contact details, vaccination records, and any witness information. This information will be vital for your case.
Document Injuries: Take photographs of your injuries and keep records of all medical treatments and expenses related to the bite.
Consult a Dog Bite Lawyer: Contact an experienced dog bite attorney to discuss your case and understand your legal options.
Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims
Victims of dog bites in Orange County may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the severity of their injuries and the circumstances of the attack:
Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation costs.
Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to the injury.
Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the attack.
Disfigurement: Compensation for permanent scarring or loss of bodily function.
Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, additional damages may be awarded to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct.
Finding a Qualified Dog Bite Lawyer in Orange County
When seeking legal representation for a dog bite case, it’s important to choose a lawyer with experience in handling such claims. Here are a few reputable law firms in Orange County specializing in dog bite cases:
Dog Bite Law Group: Led by attorney John Montevideo, this firm focuses exclusively on dog bite cases and offers personalized attention to each client. They operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case. dogbitelawgroup.com
Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP: With offices in Irvine, this firm offers free consultations and has experience handling dog bite cases. They focus on protecting the rights of injury victims and pursuing fair compensation. Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP
RMD Law: This firm has secured over $200 million in personal injury settlements and offers free consultations. They operate on a no-win, no-fee basis and are available 24/7 to assist clients. RMD Law Personal Injury Attorneys
The Dominguez Firm: With a 96% success rate, this firm offers free consultations and has experience handling dog bite cases. They focus on maximizing compensation for their clients. The Dominguez Firm
Samer Habbas & Associates: This firm has multiple offices across Southern California and offers free consultations. They specialize in personal injury cases, including dog bites, and work on a contingency fee basis. habbaspilaw.com
Conclusion
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Orange County, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation. By taking immediate action, documenting the incident, and consulting with an experienced dog bite lawyer, you can navigate the legal process and work towards obtaining the compensation you deserve. Consider reaching out to one of the reputable law firms mentioned above to discuss your case.