Many Davis households have dogs. These pets bring joy and companionship to families throughout Yolo County. However, even the friendliest dog may bite if it feels scared, threatened, or provoked. When a dog attack happens, victims often face painful and severe injuries, expensive medical bills, and psychological trauma that can last a lifetime.
If you’ve suffered injuries from a dog attack, a Davis dog bite lawyer can provide skilled legal representation to help you navigate dog bite injury claims and understand your rights under California law.
At Demas Law Group, our skilled personal injury lawyers have over 30 years of experience helping dog bite victims seek compensation for their injuries. We understand the devastating impact a dog attack can have on your life, and if the dog owner was negligent, you deserve the opportunity to hold them accountable. Call or contact our law firm today for a free consultation.
Understanding California Dog Bite Laws
California takes a strong stance in protecting dog bite victims. Under California Civil Code § 3342, the state follows a strict liability rule. This means dog owners are legally responsible for injuries their pets cause, regardless of whether the dog has ever shown aggressive behavior before.
Unlike some states that give owners a free pass for a dog’s first bite, California holds owners accountable from Day One. If their dog bites someone who is lawfully present on public or private property, the owner must answer for the resulting harm. This law applies whether the attack happens in a Davis park, on a sidewalk, or in someone’s home.
California dog bite laws do include some exceptions. For example, if someone trespasses on private property and gets bitten, the owner may not be liable. Veterinarians, dog trainers, and others who work professionally with animals also have limited ability to pursue claims for bites that occur during their work.
Dog bite victims have two years from the date of the attack to initiate a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can bar you from recovering any compensation, so you should speak with a dog attack lawyer in Davis as soon as possible.
Can Anyone Other Than the Owner Be Liable for a Dog Bite?
Under California’s strict liability statute, responsibility for bite injuries automatically falls on the dog’s owner. However, other non-owners, such as property owners, landlords, or animal caretakers, may also face legal responsibility if their negligence contributed to the attack.
Many dog bite victims feel concerned about how their claim might financially affect the responsible party — especially if the owner is someone they know personally, such as a friend or family member. In many cases, homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies cover dog bite incidents, meaning the owner’s insurance company typically pays for the victim’s losses. However, some policies exclude certain breeds or deny coverage altogether, which can complicate recovery efforts.
Common Dog Bite Injuries and Their Impact
Dog bites can cause immense harm. The force of a dog’s bite can be hundreds of pounds per square inch, potentially causing disfiguring and serious injuries. Common injuries include:
- Puncture wounds and deep lacerations – These wounds often require stitches or surgical repair and carry a high risk of infection.
- Broken bones – Powerful bites can crush fingers, hands, and other bones, especially in children.
- Nerve damage – Deep bites may sever or damage delicate tissues and nerves, leading to numbness or loss of function.
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement – Facial bites are prevalent among children and may require multiple reconstructive surgeries.
- Infections – Dog mouths naturally harbor bacteria that can cause infections, some of which may require antibiotics, a series of rabies vaccinations, or, in severe cases, hospitalization.
- Emotional trauma – Most dog bites are unexpected, which can trigger intense feelings of fear and anxiety in the aftermath of an attack. Severe injuries that cause disfigurement can also be a source of embarrassment for victims, leaving marks that are a constant reminder of the incident.
Children face particular risks during dog attacks. Because they are closer to a dog’s eye level, children are more likely to suffer bites to the face, head, and neck. These injuries can be fatal or cause lasting disabilities.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Davis
If a dog attacked you or your child, take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even for wounds that seem minor.
- Report the bite to Yolo County Animal Services.
- Document the dog owner’s name, address, and homeowner’s or renter’s insurance information (if they can be found).
- Take photographs of your injuries, as well as the location where the attack occurred.
- Gather contact information from any witnesses.
- Keep records of all medical treatment and expenses.
- Contact a Davis dog bite attorney before speaking with an insurer to learn your options and how the legal process works.
How a Davis Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help You
Pursuing a dog bite claim on your own can be challenging when dealing with insurance companies. You’re seeking fair compensation, but adjusters are trained to use tactics to minimize payouts. That’s why you should never agree to provide a recorded statement or agree to release medical records without discussing your dog bite case with an attorney first.
When you consult an experienced dog bite lawyer in Davis, you’ll get guidance from a legal professional who knows the law, how insurance companies work, and the strategies that can help you build a strong injury claim. As you recover from your injuries, your attorney can investigate what happened, identify the responsible party, and negotiate for full and fair compensation from the insurer. If disputes arise, your lawyer may also discuss filing a dog bite lawsuit and, if necessary, taking the case to court.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
California dog bite victims may pursue compensation for a wide range of losses, including:
- Past and current medical expenses
- Future medical bills
- Rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability
- Scarring or disfigurement
The value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, the extent of your medical treatment, and how the attack has affected your daily life.
Why Choose Demas Law Group for Your Davis Dog Bite Claim?
Demas Law Group is a top-rated personal injury law firm with over three decades of experience representing the wrongfully injured. Our accomplished team is recognized for its proven track record of success and has earned accolades from Super Lawyers, the National Trial Lawyers Top 100, the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and Martindale-Hubbell.
Past clients praise our attorneys for their dependability, reliable communication, and steadfast commitment to justice. As one wrote:
“Working with Tim over the last year has been a great experience. He was on top of everything with the insurance companies and did an amazing job with my case. Highly recommended!” – Tommy D.
If you need answers about a potential dog bite claim in Davis, we have answers. Call or contact us today to arrange a free consultation with one of our Davis dog bite lawyers.
