Being involved in a dog bite attack is a frightening and painful experience. That’s why working with an experienced personal injury lawyer who focuses on dog bite claims can make all the difference. Sadly, most of the 4.7 million dog bites reported in the United States each year go uncompensated. Insurance companies often try to pay victims only a fraction, sometimes just 10–20%, of the real value of their claim.
The truth is, your dog bite claim may be worth much more than you think. That’s why having a skilled Los Angeles dog bite attorney is so important.
Why Choose Our Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer?
Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C. takes immediate action by helping you get medical care, investigating the attack, contacting witnesses and Animal Care & Control, and putting the insurance company on notice. Our goal is to protect your health, your rights, and your financial recovery.
Call us today at 323-524-8994 for a free consultation with a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
California Dog Bite Laws: How Do They Protect Victims?
California has some of the strongest dog bite laws in the country. Unlike states that follow a “one free bite” rule, California Civil Code § 3342 makes dog owners strictly liable when their dog bites someone in public or while that person is lawfully on private property. In simple terms, if a dog bites you, the owner is usually responsible regardless of whether the dog has bitten before.
This strict liability rule is designed to protect victims and make sure they don’t have to carry the financial burden of an attack. Medical care, scarring treatment, therapy, and lost wages can all be part of your claim when handled by an experienced Los Angeles dog bite attorney.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are a few situations where strict liability may not apply:
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If the victim was trespassing at the time of the attack.
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If the dog was provoked or intentionally harassed.
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If the victim was performing a job that assumes the risk of bites, such as a veterinarian or professional trainer.
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If the dog was a police or military K-9 acting in the line of duty.
Local Los Angeles Context
In Los Angeles County, every reported dog bite must also be reviewed by Animal Care & Control. Typically, the dog is quarantined for ten days to monitor for rabies or other health risks. These records often serve as powerful evidence in a dog bite lawsuit.
If you were attacked, working with our dog bite law firm in Los Angeles ensures that your claim is filed correctly, deadlines are met, and defenses are properly handled.
Who Can Be Held Responsible When a Dog Attacks in Los Angeles?
In most cases, the dog’s owner is legally responsible for injuries under California’s strict liability law. But responsibility can extend beyond the owner in certain situations. A person who is caring for the dog, such as a pet sitter, walker, or temporary keeper, may also be held accountable if the attack happens while the dog is under their control.
In rare cases, landlords or property owners can be liable if they knew about a dangerous dog on their property and failed to act. Even homeowners’ associations or building managers could share responsibility if they ignored complaints about an aggressive dog in their community.
This is why proving dog owner liability and possible negligence in dog bite cases is so important.Our trustworthy Los Angeles dog bite attorney can investigate who should be named in the claim to maximize your chance of full compensation.
Dog Bite Lawsuit Process in California: From Claim to Settlement or Trial
Many victims wonder what happens once they decide to bring a dog bite lawsuit. The process can feel overwhelming at first, but our experienced Los Angeles dog bite attorney will guide you through every step. Here’s what you can expect:
Step 1: Medical Treatment and Documentation
The first step is always your health. Get emergency care and follow up with specialists if needed. Medical records, photos, and treatment notes will later serve as proof of the physical and emotional harm you suffered.
Step 2: Investigation and Legal Claim
Our attorney will gather key evidence such as animal control reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and insurance policy details. This evidence forms the foundation of your dog bite legal claim.
Step 3: Negotiating With the Insurance Company
Most dog bite personal injury cases are handled through the dog owner’s homeowners or renters insurance. Unfortunately, insurers often try to offer low settlements. Fassonaki Law firm P.C., levels the playing field by calculating the full value of your damages, including future medical needs, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Coverage note: If you were wounded when someone’s dog bit you in their home, you may still be able to pursue a claim against their homeowner’s insurance policy.
Step 4: Filing a Dog Bite Lawsuit if Needed
If the insurance company refuses to settle fairly, your attorney can file a dog attack lawsuit in court. This shows the insurer you are serious about recovering the full amount you deserve.
Step 5: Settlement or Trial
The majority of cases settle before trial, but some require courtroom litigation. With trial preparation in place from day one, our lawyer is ready to present medical experts, witness testimony, and financial records to prove your losses.
Settlement and Compensation in a Los Angeles Dog Bite Case
One of the most common questions we hear is, “How much is my dog bite case worth?” The average dog bite settlement in the United States is over $30,000, according to insurance industry data. The answer depends on many factors, but with the right evidence and legal strategy, a dog bite injury settlement can cover all of your physical, emotional, and financial losses.
Estimated Settlement Ranges for Dog Bite Cases
The value of a dog bite case is influenced by many factors, including the severity of the injury, the medical treatments required, and the long-term impact on your life. While no two cases are exactly alike, these estimated ranges can provide a general idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that these figures are not guaranteed and can vary significantly based on the specific details of your case.
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Minor dog bite injuries (puncture wounds, minor scarring, short medical care): $15,000 – $40,000
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Moderate injuries (infection, facial scarring, ligament/tendon damage, counseling needed): $40,000 – $125,000
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Severe dog bite cases (nerve damage, multiple surgeries, permanent disfigurement, PTSD): $125,000 – $500,000+
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Fatal dog attacks or catastrophic injuries (wrongful death, amputations, life-long disability): $500,000 – millions
It’s important to be aware that insurance companies will often try to settle your case quickly for a fraction of its true value, sometimes as little as 10-20%. They want to minimize their payout, which is why having an experienced legal team on your side is crucial. We can help you fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Factors That Affect Dog Bite Settlements (Why Settlements Vary)
Every dog bite case is unique, and the value of your settlement is not a fixed number. Instead, the final dog bite settlement value is a dynamic figure influenced by a variety of critical factors. A skilled attorney understands how to meticulously evaluate each of these elements to build a powerful case and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. While the average dog bite settlement amount in California can provide a general idea, your specific situation is what truly matters.
Here’s a closer look at the key factors affecting dog bite compensation:
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Severity of injuries: Scarring, nerve damage, or permanent disability usually increase value.
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Age of the victim: Children often receive higher compensation due to long-term effects.
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Impact on daily life: Difficulties with work, sleep, or normal activities matter.
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Owner negligence: Ignoring leash laws or prior complaints can raise settlement value.
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Comparative fault: In rare cases, if the victim provoked the dog or contributed to the attack, compensation may be reduced under California’s comparative negligence rule.
Contact Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C. today to find out what your case may be worth. We’ll calculate the full value of your damages and fight to recover the maximum compensation available.
Dog Bite Injuries That Often Increase Case Value
The injuries from a dog bite can range from small cuts to life-changing damage. The type of injury often decides how much compensation a victim can receive in a dog bite injury lawsuit.
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Many bites leave puncture wounds that can quickly become infected if not treated right away. Infections such as cellulitis or MRSA are common after a dog attack.
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When a bite leaves scars, especially on the face, arms, or legs, the case value usually increases. Scarring may require plastic surgery, and even with treatment, the marks can affect confidence and daily life.
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Some attacks cause nerve or muscle damage. These injuries can lead to weakness, pain, or reduced movement in the hands, arms, or legs.
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The harm is not only physical. Many victims suffer emotional trauma from a dog attack. Children and adults often develop anxiety, nightmares, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These are real injuries that must be included in a claim.
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Medical bills are another major factor. Medical expenses can include ER visits, medications, surgeries, counseling, and therapy. Future care also needs to be considered.
If Someone’s Dog Bites Me in Los Angeles, Can I Sue and What Should I Do Next?
Yes, you can. California law makes dog owners strictly liable for bites, meaning you have the right to sue even if the dog never attacked anyone before. What matters most is that you take the right steps quickly.
First, get medical care immediately so your injuries are documented and treated. Then, report the attack to animal control or police so there is an official record. Be sure to take photos of your wounds, save torn clothing, collect insurance information, and write down names of any witnesses. Keep copies of your medical records and note any lost work or income. These details are key in building a strong dog attack injury claim.
The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better. Insurance companies often try to call victims early and push for a low settlement. Talking to an LA dog bite attorney before responding ensures your rights are protected.
What Is a Level 3 Dog Bite and How Does It Affect Your Claim?
You have probably heard the term Level 3 dog bite, but many people don’t know exactly what it means. On the Dunbar dog bite scale, a Level 3 bite occurs when the dog’s teeth puncture the skin and leave one to four wounds. These bites are not the most severe, but they are far from minor. They can lead to infections, visible scarring, and long-term emotional trauma.
Even if the wounds seem moderate at first, insurance companies often undervalue them. With the right medical records, photos, and treatment notes, your attorney can show the true impact of the attack. Victims may need antibiotics, wound care, or plastic surgery to treat scars, and all of these costs should be part of your claim.
Protect Yourself and Get Peace of Mind: Contact Our Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney
We encourage you to review our case results ranging from five to seven figures and read our client testimonials about their experience and success with our firm. As an award-winning law firm, we have secured trial verdicts and strong settlements on behalf of our clients.
There are no fees unless we win. We’re in this together.
“Do I owe any money if my case doesn’t recover anything?” Absolutely not. When you hire our firm, we operate on a contingency fee basis. That means our payment comes only as a percentage of the recovery we secure for you. If there is no recovery, you owe us nothing.
Protect yourself and get peace of mind today. Call our Los Angeles dog bite lawyer at 323-524-8994 for a free consultation. We look forward to helping you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Cases
1. How long does it take to settle a dog bite lawsuit in Los Angeles?
Every case is different. Some dog bite settlements resolve in a few months if liability is clear, while others may take a year or more if insurance companies delay or the case goes to trial.
2. Can I recover damages for emotional trauma even if my physical injuries healed?
Yes, California law allows victims to claim compensation for emotional trauma, PTSD, and anxiety caused by a dog attack, even if the physical wounds were not severe.
3. What if a dog bites my child, are the rules different?
Children under age 5 receive special protection because the law does not apply provocation defenses to them. Courts also recognize the long-term impact of scars and trauma on children, which often increases case value.
4. Do I need to report a dog bite to animal control in Los Angeles?
Yes. Los Angeles County requires most dog bites to be reported to Animal Care & Control. The dog is usually quarantined for ten days to check for rabies, and this record helps strengthen your case.
5. What happens if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?
If there is no homeowners or renters insurance, your attorney may look at other coverage, such as umbrella policies or landlord liability. In some cases, the claim may go directly against the owner’s personal assets.
6. Can I still file a claim if the bite happened months ago?
Yes, as long as you are within California’s two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. But it’s best to act quickly so evidence, witnesses, and medical records are preserved.
7. Where can I find the best dog bite law firm in Los Angeles?
Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C., is the trustworthy dog bite law firm in Los Angeles, with extensive trial expertise and a thorough understanding of California’s stringent liability regulations. We provide free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay anything unless we win.