When a dog attacks a person, regardless of their age, physical build or mental attributes, the incident leaves a mark. This goes beyond the physical puncture wounds and bite marks as there is an emotional and psychological price to pay in dog bite attacks which is indisputable. Regardless if the victim is an adult or a young child, an animal attack is always traumatic as the victim experiences a period of intense fear and insecurity.

Often dog bite victims require cosmetic surgery to treat bite marks and scars and some even undergo numerous surgeries to repair the damage. Some victims even end up spending a considerable amount of money on therapy to help them deal with the anxiety and fear they feel after being attacked.

It is always the responsibility of an animal’s owner to make sure their dog does not bite or attack people. Under California’s Civil Code Section 3342, the owner of a dog is liable for the damages suffered by anyone who is attacked and bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place. This includes the property of the owner of the animal, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness.

Common Animal Bite Injuries

Victims of dog or animal bite accidents often suffer serious physical injuries as well as psychological and emotional trauma that may include:

• Puncture wounds
• Broken and dislocated bones
• Lacerations, contusions and abrasions
• Cosmetic disfigurement
• Infection
• Psychological and emotional trauma
• Amputation
• Death

Compensation You May Be Eligible to Receive

If you or someone you care about has been bitten by an animal such a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for the following damages:

• Medical expenses both current and on-going
• Mental health treatment
• Emotional and psychological distress
• Lost wages
• Inability to earn income
• Pain and suffering

How Our Animal Bite Attorneys Can Help

We take dog bites seriously as animal attacks are among the most frightening personal injuries anyone can experience. Each year, thousands of people of all ages become victims of horrific dog attacks. Sadly, often the victims are children who’ve been mauled by dogs which often results in severe injuries and even death.

If you or someone you love has been attacked and injured by an animal such as a dog, the animal bite attorneys at Hogan Injury can help you obtain the compensation you are due under law. We understand that animal bites are frightening and often leave victims traumatized.

Unlike other states, California does not adhere to the “one free bite” policy which allows a dog owner to get a free pass on a first attack. In California, it does not matter if the dog has attacked someone before or not. Representation by a personal injury lawyer can be your best opportunity to get the compensation you need. Plus, a claim will help hold the dog owner accountable so that no one else unnecessarily suffers injury from the animal that attacked you or you loved one.

We will work to help you compile the necessary evidence that may be required to establish negligence on the part of the animal’s owner. While many dog owners have coverage for their pets through their renter’s or homeowner’s insurance, their insurance may not cover all the damages you are eligible to receive compensation for such as pain and suffering and long-term medical costs.

Contact us today so we can discuss what has happened, how it’s affected you and what options you have for receiving due compensation for the injuries you’ve suffered.