Getting a lawyer for a dog bite is often a smart decision, especially if the bite resulted in serious injuries, infection, scarring, emotional trauma, or lost wages. Dog bite cases can be more complex than they seem, particularly when dealing with uncooperative owners, insurance companies, or unclear liability. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, determine if the dog owner is legally responsible, and build a strong case for compensation.
In California, dog owners are typically held strictly liable for bites, meaning they can be held responsible even if the dog has never shown aggression before. Still, proving the extent of your damages and navigating the legal system can be difficult on your own.
A personal injury law firm can handle the entire process—investigating the incident, gathering medical records, negotiating with insurers, and representing you in court if necessary. The Law Office of Brent D. Rawlings provides experienced legal support for victims of dog bites.
What kind of lawyer do I need for a dog bite?
For a dog bite case, you need a personal injury lawyer, preferably one with experience handling animal attack claims. Personal injury lawyers specialize in cases where someone has been harmed due to another person’s negligence or legal responsibility, which includes dog bites, animal attacks, and related injuries.
A lawyer with knowledge of local laws is essential, especially in states like California, where dog owners are often held strictly liable for bites. This means the owner can be held responsible even if the dog had no previous history of aggression. A qualified attorney can help determine liability, gather medical records, evaluate the impact of the injury (both physical and emotional), and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potential long-term effects like scarring or trauma.
In cases involving insurance claims or disputes about fault, a personal injury lawyer can negotiate on your behalf and, if necessary, take the case to court. Choosing the right lawyer ensures you’re not navigating the legal system alone during a stressful time.
How much compensation can I get from a dog bite injury?
The amount of compensation you can receive for a dog bite injury in California depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, emotional distress, and whether any long-term damage like scarring or disability occurred. California follows strict liability laws, meaning the dog owner is usually responsible for the bite regardless of whether the dog had bitten someone before or shown prior aggression.
In general, dog bite victims may be eligible for compensation covering:
- Medical bills (emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, medications)
- Lost wages from time missed at work
- Pain and suffering for physical and emotional trauma
- Scarring or disfigurement, especially on visible areas like the face or hands
- Psychological impact, including anxiety, PTSD, or fear of dogs
In cases involving severe or permanent injuries, compensation can reach tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, especially if the bite causes long-term harm or disfigurement. Every case is different, so consulting a personal injury lawyer can help accurately estimate the full value of your claim.
