Phillips Personal Injury- Elk Grove’s Experienced and Trusted Dog Attack Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog in Elk Grove, seeking the expertise of a dedicated dog attack lawyer is crucial. Dog attacks can result in serious injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens. An Elk Grove dog attack lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Dog Attack Liability in Elk Grove
In California, dog owners are held strictly liable for their pets' actions. This means that if a dog bites or attacks someone, the owner is responsible for the victim’s injuries, regardless of the dog’s history or the owner's knowledge of its behavior. However, navigating the legal system and dealing with insurance companies can be challenging without professional help.
The Role of an Elk Grove Dog Attack Lawyer
A dog attack lawyer specializes in handling cases involving dog bites and attacks. We can assist you in several key areas:
Case Evaluation:
We will review the details of your case, including medical records, police reports, and witness statements, to determine the strength of your claim.
Investigation:
Thorough investigation is essential. We will gather evidence, such as photographs of injuries, medical records, and expert testimony, to build a strong case.
Negotiation:
Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting. We will handle all communications, ensuring your rights are protected and negotiating for fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Litigation:
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will represent you in court, advocating for your best interests throughout the legal process.
Conclusion
It’s not uncommon for people to hesitate before deciding to call an injury lawyer after being bitten by a dog. Maybe they don’t know if their injuries are serious enough, or maybe worries about their relationship with the animal owner who happens to be a neighbor. But speaking to a dog bite attorney can help you evaluate your options and understand your rights. Since every case has unique facts and circumstances, we’d be glad to discuss the specific details of your dog bite case and any specific questions you have. We invite you to give us a call at 530-265-0186 for a no charge consultation.
An Elk Grove dog attack lawyer provides the legal expertise and support needed to navigate the aftermath of a dog attack. By seeking their assistance, you can focus on your recovery while they work to secure the compensation you deserve. Don’t face the aftermath of a dog attack alone—seek the guidance of a skilled lawyer to protect your rights and secure your future.
Why You Need an Elk Grove Dog Bite Lawyer
Lets be real, insurance companies are not on your side. The less money they hand you, the more money they make. If an adjuster betrays your trust, if they shortchange you, if they rub salt in your wounds, they don't get reprimanded. They get rewarded.
No matter what the commercials say, and no matter how endearing the adjuster on the phone may appear, it is their job to shortchange you. I've never met an adjuster or insurance defense lawyer who wears a white apron and a name tag. There is no such device as a "name your price tool." Their real tools are weapons: databases, delay tactics, lies & confusion.
Dog bite attorney Michael Phillips and the legal team at the Phillips Law Offices are committed to helping Northern Californians injured by dangerous dogs. Our committed advocacy on behalf of clients to obtain full and fair compensation have helped our clients move forward after serious injuries.
At the Phillips Law Offices we’re on your side and we treat our clients like family, not claim numbers. We are experienced and knowledgeable in fighting for our clients injured in dog attacks. Right from the start we will review the details of your injuries from a dog attack and discuss your legal options free of charge. When you retain us, we will put our attorneys, investigators and medical experts to work to understand how the dog attack occurred and the full extent of your injuries. We will submit a dog injury claim to the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurer or commercial insurer and negotiate for maximum compensation for your injuries, for full and fair compensation.
At the Phillips Personal Injury, we handle your dog bite claim on a contingent fee basis. That means there is no upfront cost to you unless we win your case by settlement or jury verdict. We are aggressive and proactive, preparing each case as if it were going to trial. This gives us the best opportunity to obtain full and fair compensation. The law is clear: if you have sustained a serious dog bite injury from a dangerous dog, you may have legal options to seek compensation. Call us today at 530-265-0186 to learn how we may help you and your family.
We are proud of our law firm’s record of seeking justice for Californians who have been injured through no fault of their own. Our dog bite injury attorneys at the Phillips Personal Injury represent clients in the Sierra Foothills, greater Sacramento area and throughout Northern California.
Elk Grove's First Internet Based Injury Law Firm, Now a Great Injury Lawyer is Only a Mouse Click Away!
We Are Your Internet Based Personal Injury Firm. Is it inconvenient for you to drive to a law firm? Meet Michael Phillips, personal injury attorney and founder of Phillips Law Offices. We serve clients in northern California, including Elk Grove and all of Sacramento County. By leveraging technology, our clients can work seamlessly with their attorney from anywhere when it is convenient to them. Now, a great personal injury attorney is never more than a mouse-click away. Start by consulting with us by Zoom to get your questions answered fast!
Since our founding, we have operated as a remote, web-based networked team, so that is nothing new for us. We are your online personal injury web based law firm. We serve clients in the “Gold Country” and greater Sacramento region to the Oregon border:
-Unlimited Video Access to Your Attorney from Your Home or Office
-24/7 Secure Access to Your File Online
-“Bank Grade” Secure Message Center ( safer than email!)
-Seamless Online Experience
-Direct Attorney Contact (not staff)
-Responsive Injury Lawyer (same day contact)
-Self Schedule Appointments
-Fee Transparency
Not sure if you have a case? Are friends and family telling you to call a lawyer? Are you starting to be suspicious about the insurance adjuster you’re dealing with? We offer free, no obligation consultations. Have questions? We are happy to talk with you about your situation and your concerns, and how we can help you though this challenging process. It’s easy. Just give us a call.
Overview of California Dog Bite Laws
California has some of the strictest dog bite laws in the United States, aimed at protecting victims and holding dog owners accountable. Understanding these laws is crucial for both dog owners and victims to navigate the legal landscape effectively.
Strict Liability Law
California operates under a strict liability law for dog bites. According to California Civil Code Section 3342, a dog owner is liable for damages if their dog bites someone, regardless of the dog’s history or the owner's knowledge of its aggressive tendencies. This law applies when the victim is in a public place or lawfully on private property, including the dog owner's property.
Legal Protections for Victims
Victims of dog bites in California have robust legal protections. They can file a claim against the dog owner to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. The strict liability statute means that victims do not need to prove the owner's negligence, only that the bite occurred.
Exceptions to the Rule
While California's dog bite laws are stringent, there are exceptions. The strict liability rule does not apply if the victim was trespassing on private property or provoking the dog at the time of the attack. Additionally, law enforcement or military dogs performing their official duties are generally exempt from these rules.
Comparative Negligence
California follows the doctrine of comparative negligence. If the victim is found to have contributed to the incident, their compensation may be reduced by the percentage of their fault. For example, if a victim provoked the dog, their compensation might be reduced proportionally.
Dangerous Dog Laws
In addition to the strict liability statute, California has laws regarding dangerous or vicious dogs. A dog may be declared dangerous if it has bitten someone without provocation, attacked another animal, or displayed aggressive behavior. Owners of such dogs are required to take specific precautions, such as muzzling the dog in public or obtaining liability insurance.
Legal Process for Victims
Victims of dog bites should seek immediate medical attention and report the incident to local animal control authorities. Documenting the injury, gathering witness statements, and consulting with a personal injury lawyer are essential steps to building a strong case.
Conclusion
California’s dog bite laws provide significant protections for victims, ensuring they can seek compensation without the burden of proving negligence. Dog owners must be aware of their responsibilities and take appropriate measures to prevent bites. By understanding these laws, both victims and owners can better navigate the legal process and ensure their rights are protected.
Actions to Take Immediately After an Elk Grove Dog Bite or Attack
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, there are several important steps you must take to ensure your physical recovery as well as protect your future legal claims. These steps include: Identify the dog, seek medical attention, report the bite, identify the owner, take photos, call Michael Phillips, dog bite injury attorney 530-265-0186
Identify the Dog
The most important first step you can take after a dog bite is to identify the dog. Find out who owns the dog or where the animal lives. Try your best to take a mental picture of the dog. If the dog bit and ran away it is very likely a stray.
Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical attention. Even if the bite appears minor it is important to get it checked out. When skin is broken by a dog bite it is very likely to become infected. Depending on the severity of the bite, contact 911 or have someone drive you to an emergency room.
Treat the Wound
If you do treat the wound at home immediately wash the wound with mild soap and clean water. There are various bacteria in the mouths of dogs, which can cause harmful infections. Washing the dog bite is the best way to get rid of dog saliva and harmful bacteria from near the wound.
The Cleveland Clinic recommends these 7 steps: Press on the wound gently to cause some bleeding to help flush out as much bacteria as possible. Wash the wound with mild soap and water. Slow the bleeding with a clean cloth. Apply over-the counter antibiotic cream if you have it. Wrap the wound in a sterile bandage. Keep the wound bandaged and see your doctor. Change the bandage several times a day once your doctor has examined the wound. Watch for signs of infection, including redness, swelling, increased pain and fever.
Report the Bite
Report the bite to your local health department. If the dog is a stray and you cannot identify it, you may be forced to undergo a series of rabies shots, which are expensive and painful. Report the dog bite to your local animal control office and the police.
Identify the Owner
Identify the owner by gathering information. Obtain the name and address of the dog owner, in addition to the dog license information. Find out if the has a past history or record or any other bites. If the owner is identified then you are very likely entitled to compensation because of the dog bite law. Identification of the owner will also protect you in testing the dog for rabies so that you do not have to endure the rabies vaccine. A rabies vaccination can be expensive, time consuming, and painful. If you can get the dog tested for rabies, you can avoid treatment.
Take Photographs
Take photographs of the injuries caused by the dog bite as soon as you can. You will also want to document the extent of your injuries. It is also a good idea to write down word for word how the accident occurred. This preserves a record of events that can be forgotten or clouded over time.
Phillips Personal Injury - Elk Grove Dog Bite Injury Attorney
Consult a dog bite lawyer at the Phillips Law Offices as soon as possible. Dog bite laws are complex and hard to understand. We can will help you sort out the complexities of your case and get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries. You may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, medical expenses, and other out of pocket expenses relating to the injury. Time is of the essence and we can immediately assist in identifying the owner and the dog involved.
Elk Grove Dog Bite Frequently-Asked Questions
Dog bites often happen very quickly and are unexpected. Most dog bites happen unexpectedly because many people are unaware of the dog’s body language. The Center for Disease Control reports that every year approximately 4.7 million people are bit in the United States. If you have questions about dog bites and injury claims we invite you to contact us. We are dog bite injury lawyers serving all of Northern CA. We do not charge for the initial consultation and are happy to answer any dog bite questions you may have. 530-265-0186
How to Report a Dog Attack in Elk Grove
Reporting a dog attack in Elk Grove is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of the community and seeking justice for the victim. Here’s a concise guide on how to properly report a dog attack in Elk Grove:
Immediate Actions
Seek Medical Attention:
First and foremost, ensure the victim receives immediate medical care. Dog bites can lead to severe injuries and infections, so prompt treatment is essential.
Document the Incident:
If possible, take photographs of the injuries, the scene of the attack, and the dog involved. Gather contact information from any witnesses who saw the incident.
Reporting the Attack
Contact Animal Control:
Report the attack to Elk Grove Animal Control Services. They handle cases involving dangerous animals and can be reached at (916) 687-3042. Provide them with detailed information about the incident, including the location, time, and description of the dog and its owner.
File a Police Report:
In addition to contacting animal control, report the attack to the Elk Grove Police Department. This can be done by calling their non-emergency number at (916) 714-5115 or visiting the nearest police station. A police report creates an official record of the incident, which can be crucial for any legal actions.
Follow-Up
Cooperate with Authorities:
Provide any additional information or evidence requested by animal control or the police. Cooperate fully with their investigations.
Seek Legal Advice:
Consider consulting a personal injury lawyer who specializes in dog attack cases. They can guide you through the legal process and help you seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Conclusion
Reporting a dog attack in Elk Grove involves immediate medical attention, contacting animal control and the police, and cooperating with authorities. Taking these steps ensures the safety of the community and helps hold the responsible parties accountable.