Phillips Personal Injury, Local Grass Valley Dog Bite Lawyer
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.
Why You Need a Local Grass Valley Dog Bite Lawyer
Local dog bite attorney Michael Phillips is 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.
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.
At the Phillips Personal Injury 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 Law Offices, 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.
Should Parents Get a Lawyer for Their Child Injured by a Dog in Grass Valley?
If a child is injured by a dog in California, it is highly recommended that parents seek the assistance of a lawyer. While each case is unique, there are several reasons why hiring a lawyer can be beneficial in such situations:
Knowledge of California Dog Bite Laws: An experienced lawyer will have in-depth knowledge of California's strict liability laws regarding dog bites. They can explain the legal rights and options available to the child and their parents. Understanding the legal framework is crucial in pursuing a successful claim.
Protection of the Child's Rights: A lawyer will advocate for the child's rights and best interests throughout the legal process. They can ensure that the child's rights to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages are protected. This includes guiding the parents through the necessary steps and helping them make informed decisions.
Gathering Evidence: Building a strong case requires gathering sufficient evidence to establish liability. A lawyer can help collect evidence, such as medical records, witness statements, photographs of injuries, and any documentation related to the incident. They can also gather evidence regarding the dog's history or the owner's knowledge of its aggressive behavior.
Determining Liability: In some cases, there may be multiple parties who can be held liable for a dog bite incident, such as the dog owner, property owner, or even a third party responsible for the dog's care. An attorney can investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify all potentially liable parties. This is important for maximizing the chances of obtaining full and fair compensation.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often represent dog owners and may try to minimize the compensation paid to the injured child. Having a lawyer who is experienced in dealing with insurance companies can level the playing field. They can negotiate on behalf of the child and their parents to ensure fair compensation for medical expenses, emotional distress, and other damages.
Pursuing Legal Action, if necessary: If the insurance company denies the claim or offers an insufficient settlement, a lawyer can guide the parents in pursuing a lawsuit. They can handle all aspects of the litigation process, including filing the necessary legal documents, conducting legal research, presenting evidence, and representing the child's interests in court.
Expert Witnesses: In some cases, expert witnesses, such as dog behaviorists or medical professionals, may be necessary to provide testimony supporting the child's claim. A lawyer can identify and consult with the appropriate experts to strengthen the case and provide expert opinions when needed.
In summary, hiring a lawyer is highly recommended for parents whose child has been injured by a dog in California. A skilled attorney can navigate the legal complexities, protect the child's rights, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, pursue legal action on behalf of the child. This ensures that the child and their family receive the compensation they deserve for their physical, emotional, and financial damages resulting from the dog bite incident.
What are some ways I can prevent dog bites and protect my children from neighborhood dogs?
Preventing dog bites and ensuring the safety of children around neighborhood dogs is of utmost importance. Here are some ways you can help protect your children:
Teach Children How to Interact with Dogs: Educate your children on proper behavior around dogs. Teach them to always ask permission from a dog owner before approaching a dog, to never disturb a dog that is eating or sleeping, and to avoid pulling on a dog's ears or tail. Emphasize the importance of respecting a dog's personal space.
Supervise Interactions: Always supervise children when they are around dogs, whether they are in your neighborhood or visiting friends or family who have dogs. Keep a close eye on both the child and the dog's behavior during the interaction. If you notice any signs of aggression or discomfort from the dog, remove the child from the situation immediately.
Teach Children to Be Calm and Gentle: Instruct children to approach dogs calmly and avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle the dog. Teach them to be gentle and avoid rough play with dogs, as this can sometimes trigger defensive behavior.
Avoid Encountering Stray or Unfamiliar Dogs: Teach children to stay away from stray dogs or dogs they do not know. If they encounter a loose dog, instruct them to stand still with their arms crossed over their chest and avoid making direct eye contact with the dog. Teach them to seek help from an adult or animal control if they feel threatened.
Respect "Dog-Free" Zones: Teach your children to respect areas that are designated as "dog-free" zones, such as playgrounds or schools. These areas are intended to provide a safe space for children without the presence of dogs.
Encourage Reporting of Aggressive Dogs: Instruct your children to inform you or another responsible adult if they encounter a dog that displays aggressive behavior. Report the incident to local authorities or animal control so that appropriate action can be taken to address the situation.
Promote Responsible Dog Ownership in the Neighborhood: Encourage your neighbors to be responsible dog owners by ensuring their dogs are properly trained, socialized, and kept securely fenced or leashed. If you notice any dogs in your neighborhood displaying aggressive behavior or being neglected, report the situation to the appropriate authorities.
Be a Good Role Model: Show your children how to interact with dogs in a safe and respectful manner. Be a responsible dog owner yourself by properly training, socializing, and caring for your own dog. This sets a positive example for your children to follow.
Remember, preventing dog bites requires a combination of education, awareness, and responsible pet ownership. By implementing these strategies, you can help protect your children from dog bites and promote a safe environment in your neighborhood.
Who Pays for Animal Bites?
In California, when it comes to dog attacks and injuries caused by dogs, the responsibility for paying for the damages typically falls on the owner of the dog. California follows a strict liability law regarding dog bites, which means that the owner is generally held responsible for any injuries or damages caused by their dog, regardless of whether the owner was negligent or aware of the dog's aggressive tendencies.
Under California Civil Code Section 3342, the law states:
"The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner's knowledge of such viciousness."
This statute establishes the owner's liability for dog bite injuries, and it applies both to public places and private property, as long as the person who was bitten was lawfully present.
It's important to note that California's strict liability law applies specifically to dog bites. If a dog causes injuries in other ways, such as knocking someone over or causing property damage, the general principles of negligence law may apply, and the injured party would need to prove that the owner was negligent in controlling or handling the dog.
When a dog attack occurs, the injured person may seek compensation for various damages, including:
Medical Expenses: This includes the costs of immediate medical treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and any future medical care that may be required due to the injuries.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation may be sought for physical pain, emotional distress, and psychological trauma resulting from the dog attack. This includes both the immediate pain and any long-term consequences such as scarring or disfigurement.
Lost Wages: If the injuries prevent the person from working temporarily or permanently, they may seek compensation for lost wages, including past and future income that would have been earned.
Punitive Damages: In some cases, if the dog owner's conduct was particularly egregious, such as knowing the dog had a history of aggression, punitive damages may be awarded. Punitive damages are intended to punish the owner and deter similar conduct in the future.
It's worth noting that the ability to recover compensation for dog attack injuries depends on the owner's ability to pay. If the owner lacks insurance coverage or financial resources, it may be challenging to recover full compensation for all damages. However, homeowners' or renters' insurance policies often provide coverage for dog bite injuries, and these policies may help compensate the victim for their losses.
In some cases, the injured person may need to file a lawsuit to pursue their claim for compensation. It's important to consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in dog bite cases to assess the circumstances, gather evidence, and navigate the legal process. An attorney can help negotiate with the dog owner's insurance company, file a lawsuit if necessary, and advocate for the injured person's rights to receive fair compensation.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a dog attack in California, it is crucial to seek medical attention and report the incident to the appropriate authorities. Additionally, consult with a knowledgeable attorney who can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
What are the most dangerous dog breeds in terms of attacking individuals in California?
It is important to approach the topic of dangerous dog breeds with caution, as it is a complex and sensitive subject. It is essential to understand that a dog's behavior is influenced by various factors, including its individual temperament, training, socialization, and the way it is raised and treated by its owners. Aggression and attacks can occur in dogs of any breed.
That being said, some breeds may have certain characteristics that, if not properly managed, could potentially increase the risk of aggressive behavior or dog bites. However, it is crucial to note that breed alone should never be the sole determining factor in assessing a dog's behavior or predicting its likelihood to attack.
In California, as in many other places, the determination of dangerous dog breeds is not based on a specific list. Instead, focus is placed on individual dogs and their behavior. California's dog bite laws, as mentioned earlier, impose strict liability on dog owners regardless of the breed. Therefore, the owner is responsible for any injuries caused by their dog, regardless of its breed or size.
While there is no definitive list of the most dangerous dog breeds in terms of attacking individuals in California, it is worth noting that certain breeds have been associated with a higher incidence of reported dog bite incidents in various studies and reports. However, it is important to approach these statistics with caution, as they may be influenced by various factors such as population size, ownership patterns, and reporting biases.
Breeds that have often been mentioned in association with dog bite incidents include:
Pit Bull Terrier: This is a term that encompasses several related breeds, such as the American Pit Bull Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. These breeds are strong and muscular, and if not properly trained and socialized, they may exhibit aggressive tendencies.
Rottweiler: Rottweilers are large, powerful dogs that were originally bred for herding and guarding. They can be protective of their family, but proper training and socialization are crucial to ensure they do not display aggressive behavior.
German Shepherd: German Shepherds are known for their intelligence and versatility. They are often used in law enforcement and as working dogs. While they can be loyal and well-behaved, inadequate training or socialization can lead to aggression.
Doberman Pinscher: Dobermans are energetic, intelligent, and protective dogs. They can be territorial and may exhibit aggression if not properly trained and socialized.
Akita: Akitas are large, powerful dogs that were originally bred for guarding and hunting. They can be independent and reserved, which, combined with inadequate socialization, can potentially lead to aggressive behavior.
It is crucial to remember that individual dogs within these breeds can have vastly different temperaments and behaviors. Responsible dog ownership, including proper training, socialization, and responsible breeding practices, is key to preventing dog bites and promoting the well-being of both dogs and the community.
When it comes to preventing dog attacks and promoting public safety, it is essential to focus on responsible pet ownership, education, and raising awareness about proper training, socialization, and responsible breed-specific legislation that targets the behavior and actions of individual dogs rather than specific breeds.
How long do I have to bring a dog bite personal injury case against the owner of the dog and his insurance provider in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for bringing a personal injury case related to a dog bite is generally two years from the date of the incident. This means that you have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit against the dog owner and their insurance provider, seeking compensation for your injuries. But there are other claims that can be as short as 6 months!
It is crucial to be aware of this time limit, as failing to file a lawsuit within the prescribed time frame can result in your case being dismissed by the court. Once the statute of limitations has expired, you may lose your right to pursue legal action and seek compensation for your injuries.
However, it is advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after a dog bite incident, even if the two-year deadline seems distant. This will allow your attorney to evaluate the specific circumstances of your case, gather evidence, and initiate the legal process in a timely manner.
While the general statute of limitations for dog bite cases is two years, there may be exceptions or circumstances that could affect the deadline. For example, if the victim is a minor at the time of the dog bite, the two-year period may be extended until the child reaches the age of 18. Claims against a government entity must be filed with 6 months!
To ensure that you fully understand the applicable statute of limitations and any exceptions that may apply to your case, it is best to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. They will guide you through the legal process, help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and file a lawsuit if necessary, all within the appropriate time frame to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
Questions? Call for Free Consult
Actions to Take Immediately After a Grass Valley 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- Dog Bite Injury Attorney
Consult a local Grass Valley 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.
Grass Valley 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
Animal Attack and Dog Bite Claim Resources
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a dog bite attack in California, there are several resources available to provide assistance, support, and information. Here are some resources you can turn to:
American Academy of Family Physicians: Prevention and Treatment of Dog Bites - Advice on what you should do if you are bitten by an animal, from initial wound management and antibiotic treatment to assessing the risk of rabies, with an emphasis on prevention.
American Veterinary Medical Association: Public Health Information for Dog Bite Prevention - Statistics and comprehensive resources to help prevent dog bites and what to do in case of a dog bite, including links to videos and additional resources.
Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Dog Bites - Information and statistics on dog bite injuries and fatalities in the United States; with tips on how to prevent animal bites and how to properly raise a dog to be gentle.
Humane Society of the U.S.: How to Avoid a Dog Bite - Tips on avoiding dog bites and preventing your dog from biting others, with information about how to read a dog's body language.
Insurance Information Institute - Overview of statistics and legal issues surrounding dog bites, including the estimated cost of dog bite claims and the three kinds of law that impose liability on dog owners.
ASPCA: Breed-Specific Legislation - Summary of the ASPCA's opposition to breed-specific dog bans, with statistics and alternatives to these laws.
How Do I Report a Dog Attack?
Overview of Dog Bite Laws
Unfortunately, California ranks #1 in the nation for the highest number of dog bites ranging from minor to very severe. An estimated 4.7 million dog bites occur in the U.S. each year and nearly 800,000 dog bites require medical care. The U.S. Postal Service tracks dog bites against carriers and typically reports around 3,000 incidences annually. Although dog bite laws vary from state to state, California has enacted tough dog bite statutes under which a dog owner can be found strictly liable for injuries caused by his dog.
10 Reasons to Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer
Injuries suffered in a dog bite attack can change a person’s life forever, whether the survivor of an attack is an adult or a child, and whether the injuries suffered in an attack are outwardly visible or internal and emotional. Anyone facing this situation needs to enforce his or her legal rights. If this includes you or someone you love, we invite you to contact Phillips Personal Injury as soon as possible to schedule a free initial consultation.