La Mesa, CA Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog bites can be more than just a physical injury — they can turn your life upside down in ways you might not expect. The immediate pain is just the beginning. A dog bite can lead to infections, tissue tears, nerve damage, and other serious injuries. These injuries result in costly medical bills, emotional distress, and a long recovery process. It’s not just a bite; it’s an event that can shake your world.

The aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming. You might find yourself facing medical procedures, dealing with anxiety or fear, and even struggling with lost wages if you can’t work. These challenges can pile up quickly, leaving you feeling helpless and unsure of what to do next. That’s where filing a dog bite claim comes into play. It’s not just about seeking compensation; it’s about taking control and getting the support you need to get back on your feet.

By filing a claim, you’re not only addressing your immediate needs but also working to ensure that others are protected from similar incidents in the future. It’s about holding dog owners accountable and making sure you receive the justice and resources necessary for your recovery. If you’ve been bitten, it’s time to explore your options and take the steps to secure your well-being and future.

What Is Considered a Dog Bite in California?

In California, a dog bite means more than just the typical scenario of a dog biting down on a person’s skin. According to California Civil Code Section 3342, a dog bite occurs when a dog’s teeth break the skin, causing an injury. This statute establishes strict liability for dog owners, meaning they are responsible for injuries their dogs cause, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any prior aggressive tendencies.

Key elements of a dog bite:

• Contact With the Dog’s Teeth: For an incident to qualify as a dog bite, there must be actual contact between the dog’s teeth and the victim’s skin. Even if the teeth just graze the skin, it can be considered a bite if it results in an injury.
• Breaking the Skin: The injury must involve the dog’s teeth breaking the skin. This is a crucial aspect as it distinguishes a bite from other types of injuries that a dog might cause, such as scratches or bruises from paws.
• Location of the Incident: The incident must occur in a public place or, lawfully, in a private place, including the dog owner’s property. If the victim was trespassing or unlawfully on the property, the dog owner might not be held liable.
• Victim’s Conduct: The victim’s conduct can also impact the case. For example, if the victim provoked the dog, the owner’s liability might be reduced or negated.

While the primary focus is on the bite itself, other factors like infection, scarring, and emotional trauma can compound the severity of the injury. Medical attention is often required to treat dog bites.

Understanding Dog Bite Claims and Homeowner’s Insurance

When a dog bites someone, the claim often falls under the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy. This type of insurance typically includes liability coverage that can address injuries caused by pets. Here’s how the process usually works:

• Reporting the Incident: After a dog bite, it’s essential to report the incident to the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance company. The insurer will start an investigation to assess the claim’s validity and determine coverage.
• Filing a Claim: The victim or their attorney files a claim with the homeowner’s insurance. This claim will cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the dog bite.
• Investigation and Coverage: The insurance company will investigate the details of the bite, including the circumstances of the incident and the dog’s history. They’ll determine if the policy covers the claim and to what extent. Most homeowner’s insurance policies include liability coverage for dog bites, but exclusions may apply if the dog has a known history of aggression.
• Compensation: If the claim is approved, the insurance company will compensate for medical bills, lost income, and sometimes additional damages for pain and suffering.

Working with a lawyer can help ensure that you receive fair compensation and navigate the complexities of dealing with insurance companies.

The Importance of Working With a Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog bite incidents can be traumatic, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional scars, and financial burdens. Working with a dog bite lawyer is a great way to improve your chances of receiving the compensation and support you deserve. 

• Filing a lawsuit to subpoena evidence that is not otherwise available
• Thoroughly investigating every detail of your case IMMEDIATELY
• Collecting and preserving vital evidence and witness statements
• Hiring the best experts in your case requires
• Analyzing the accuracy of the collision report
• Interviewing critical eyewitnesses
• Obtaining 911 audio/dispatch and video records
• Going to the scene and reconstructing how the accident occurred
• Securing any evidence, surveillance video, photos, and witness statements
• Ensuring you receive the best medical care, no matter what health insurance coverage you may or may not have
• Filing all paperwork correctly and on time
• Advocating aggressively for your rights and interests inside and outside of court
• Supporting you through every step of California’s claims process
• Helping you get your vehicle repaired or replaced without delay
• Determining if the negligent party was on the job at the time of the accident
• Determining whether additional parties or entities are at fault
• Answering your legal questions
• Keeping you updated on the status of your case
• Negotiating with all parties on your behalf
• Retaining top-notch accident reconstruction and other experts

Working with a dog bite lawyer not only enhances your chances of a favorable outcome but also helps preserve personal relationships and ensures you receive the justice and compensation you need to move forward.

Take Control After a Dog Bite

At Jassim Law, we understand the profound impact a dog bite can have on your life. From the physical pain to the emotional distress and financial burdens, the aftermath can be overwhelming. We are committed to helping you navigate this challenging time. With years of experience in personal injury law, Attorney Pajman Jassim and our team are dedicated to securing the justice and compensation you deserve. We handle every aspect of your case, from thorough investigation to expert representation in court. 

Call us today at (858) 524-6140 or visit our contact form here. We understand that you are injured, so we come to you. We also offer video, Zoom, or telephone consultations.