QUESTION:
If someone enters my home without permission and my dog bites them, can I be sued for the injury?
ANSWER:
The “dog bite statute” of California mainly puts the responsibility on the owners of dogs that injure others [CC § 3342(a)]. For example, if a victim was bitten by a dog owned by another tenant in an apartment complex, generally, the owner, and NOT the apartment complex management, will be held liable for the injuries sustained.
If one becomes a victim, he/she should get immediate medical attention, and preserve evidence (e.g. torn clothing), and work with a lawyer who is an expert in animal law and personal injury to know about the rights of the dog-bite victim, and possible damages that may be claimed, if applicable.