Phillips Personal Injury
Dog attacks can be traumatic and life-altering experiences, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a dog in Sacramento, seeking the help of an experienced dog attack lawyer is crucial. A skilled lawyer can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Understanding Dog Attack Liability in Sacramento
In Sacramento, dog owners are held strictly liable for the actions of their pets. This means that if a dog bites or attacks someone, the owner is responsible for the victim’s injuries, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or if the owner was negligent. California’s strict liability statute provides a strong legal foundation for victims seeking compensation, but navigating the legal system and dealing with insurance companies can be complex and challenging.
The Role of a Sacramento Dog Attack Lawyer
A Sacramento dog attack lawyer specializes in handling cases involving dog bites and attacks. Their expertise encompasses various critical aspects:
Case Evaluation and Consultation:
A dog attack lawyer will begin by evaluating your case, reviewing medical records, police reports, witness statements, and other pertinent evidence. They will provide an initial consultation to discuss your legal options and the potential value of your claim.
Investigation:
Thorough investigation is essential to build a strong case. Your lawyer will gather evidence, such as photographs of injuries, medical records, and testimonies from witnesses. They may also consult with medical experts to understand the full extent of your injuries and their long-term impact.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies:
Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting, as they often aim to minimize payouts. A skilled lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance company, ensuring your rights are protected and negotiating for a fair settlement that covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Filing a Lawsuit:
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your lawyer will file a lawsuit on your behalf. They will prepare all necessary legal documents, represent you in court, and advocate for your best interests throughout the litigation process.
Calculating Damages:
Accurately calculating damages is crucial for securing adequate compensation. A dog attack lawyer will consider all aspects of your case, including current and future medical expenses, lost income, and the emotional and psychological impact of the attack.
Benefits of Hiring a Sacramento Dog Attack Lawyer
Expert Legal Knowledge:
Dog attack lawyers possess in-depth knowledge of California’s personal injury laws and regulations. They stay updated on any changes in legislation that may affect your case, ensuring you receive the best possible legal representation.
Experience and Skill:
Experienced lawyers have handled numerous dog attack cases and understand the tactics used by insurance companies. Their expertise allows them to anticipate potential challenges and develop effective strategies to overcome them.
Maximizing Compensation:
A skilled lawyer knows how to accurately assess the value of your claim and will fight to ensure you receive the maximum compensation available. They will consider all aspects of your case, including future medical expenses and long-term impacts on your quality of life.
Reducing Stress:
Dealing with the aftermath of a dog attack can be overwhelming. By hiring a lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal complexities. They will manage all paperwork, deadlines, and negotiations on your behalf.
Why You Need a Sacramento 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 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 Law Offices represent clients in the Sierra Foothills, greater Sacramento area and throughout Northern California.
Sacramento’s First Internet Based Injury Law Firm. Now 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 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.
Steps to Take After a Dog Attack
If you are involved in a dog attack in Sacramento, taking certain steps can protect your rights and strengthen your case:
Seek Medical Attention:
Your health and safety are the top priority. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Prompt medical evaluation ensures that injuries are documented, which is essential for your claim.
Document the Scene:
If it is safe to do so, document the incident scene. Take photographs of your injuries, the surrounding area, and the dog involved. Collect contact information from witnesses and the dog owner.
Report the Attack:
Report the attack to local authorities and animal control. Obtain a copy of the report, which will serve as an official record of the incident and can be valuable evidence in your case.
Consult a Dog Attack Lawyer:
Contact a Sacramento dog attack lawyer promptly. The sooner you seek legal advice, the better your chances of preserving evidence and building a strong case.
Dog attacks can have severe and lasting effects, but with the right legal representation, you can navigate the challenges and secure the compensation you deserve. A Sacramento dog attack lawyer will provide the expertise, support, and advocacy needed to protect your rights and achieve a favorable outcome. By choosing an experienced and dedicated lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal complexities of your case. Don't face the aftermath of a dog attack alone—seek the guidance of a skilled Sacramento dog attack lawyer to ensure your rights are upheld and your future is secured.
Should Parents Get a Lawyer for Their Child Injured by a Dog in Sacramento?
If a child is injured by a dog in Sacramento, 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 Sacramento Dog Attack 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.
Actions to Take Immediately After a Sacramento 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 Sacramento County 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.
Sacramento 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
Insurance Issues in Dog Attacks in California
Navigating insurance issues following a dog attack in California can be complex and overwhelming. California operates under a strict liability statute, which means dog owners are generally held responsible for their pets' actions, regardless of the dog's history or the owner's knowledge of its behavior. However, dealing with insurance companies to secure compensation for injuries and damages can present significant challenges.
Homeowners and renters insurance policies typically cover dog bite liability, but the extent of coverage can vary widely. Some policies might exclude certain breeds considered dangerous or impose lower coverage limits for dog-related incidents. It's crucial to review the specifics of the policy to understand what is and isn’t covered.
After a dog attack, victims should promptly report the incident to both their insurance company and the dog owner's insurer, if known. Providing detailed documentation, such as medical records, photographs of injuries, and witness statements, can strengthen the claim. However, insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize the payout or dispute the claim altogether, citing factors like provocation or trespassing.
Negotiating with insurance companies often requires persistence and a thorough understanding of the policy terms and relevant laws. Victims might benefit from the expertise of a personal injury lawyer specializing in dog attack cases. These lawyers can navigate the intricacies of insurance claims, advocate on behalf of the victim, and ensure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
In summary, while California's strict liability laws favor dog attack victims, successfully navigating insurance claims requires careful attention to policy details and often professional legal assistance to secure adequate compensation.
How to Report a Dog Bite or Dog Attack
Dog Bite FAQ's
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. A good starting point might be to review some common FAQs, and please do not hesitate to contact us to talk in more detail or if you have other questions. 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.