Our No Fee Pledge
We offer a no fee guarantee: if you hire our firm, you pay no upfront fee, and no fee at all unless we recover for you. We receive our fee at the end of the case, deducted from the money collected for you. Our fee is a percentage of the total recovery.
Dog Bite Law in California
In California, the law holds a dog owner strictly liable to pay full compensation to a dog bite victim. Even if the dog was on a leash or had never shown aggression, the owner must take responsibility.
To establish liability, the injured person must prove the defendant owned the dog and the dog bit the victim in a public place or while lawfully on private property.
Los Angeles County applies both state rules and local ordinances for dangerous dogs, which sometimes change how claims are managed. County animal control can investigate and may classify dogs as potentially dangerous or vicious, leading to restrictions for the owner. These local procedures help clarify your rights if you seek compensation in Los Angeles.
Common Dog Breeds Involved in Bites
Certain breeds more frequently appear in biting incident reports, but any dog can harm someone. Factors like training, environment, and the dog's history affect temperament. Still, some breeds are way more common in bite statistics, including:
- Pit Bulls: Often in the news for serious attacks because of their strength and aggressive traits if not properly trained.
- Rottweilers: Known for their protective instincts, Rottweilers may become territorial or aggressive when threatened.
- German Shepherds: Useful for police and military work, German Shepherds are protective and may bite when guarding their home or family.
- Chihuahuas: Despite their size, Chihuahuas are known for bold, sometimes biting behavior if frightened.
- Dachshunds: Small but sometimes prone to biting due to possessiveness or fear.
Recognizing these breed tendencies can help reduce incidents and give victims helpful background for their claim details.
Los Angeles animal shelters and local incident reports show bites from both large and small breeds. Busy neighborhoods and popular public spaces like parks and sidewalks can lead to close encounters with unfamiliar dogs, raising the chances of a bite from any breed.
Preventing Dog Bites
Preventing dog bites helps protect both people and pets in our communities. These simple steps can minimize the risk of incidents:
- Train Your Dog: Training from puppyhood reduces aggressive behavior. Socializing your dog with people and other animals is key.
- Supervise Interactions: Never leave children alone with any dog, especially one they do not know. Always supervise and teach children to approach animals safely.
- Respect Boundaries: Do not go near a dog when it is eating, sleeping, or guarding toys or territory. Give dogs their space.
- Leash Your Dog: Always use a leash in public areas to prevent sudden incidents or confrontations with others.
Los Angeles maintains leash laws requiring dog owners to control their pets in public. In dog-friendly LA neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Playa Vista, designated off-leash areas exist, but when outside these zones, local authorities enforce leash rules to promote safety. Knowing and following local regulations helps keep both owners and others safe and reduces the risk of legal issues after a bite.
Insurance Coverage for Dog Bites
In most cases, the dog owner's insurance pays for costs associated with a dog bite. Here's how insurance applies:
- Homeowner's Insurance: Many policies cover injuries caused by dogs, considering the dog part of the household. If someone is bitten on your property, homeowner's insurance may pay medical bills and legal costs.
- Renter's Insurance: Renter's insurance often includes liability coverage for bites if the dog lives at the rental property.
If the owner has no insurance or their policy excludes dog bites, getting compensation becomes more complicated. In these cases, the injured party may have to seek compensation directly from the dog owner, which can be hard if they lack resources. An attorney can help explore all possible options for recovery.
Understanding Your Rights After a Dog Bite Incident
Experiencing a dog bite can bring physical and emotional trauma. Many victims do not know their rights or the steps to take next. Our team at McGee Lerer Ogrin guides you through the legal and insurance process in California, so you understand what applies to your case.
Victims in Los Angeles can face extra hurdles, such as language differences or finding out who owns the dog, especially in neighborhoods with many renters or visitors. Working with a local attorney who recognizes these challenges can help avoid delays and make sure you notify the proper authorities.
Here are the steps to protect your rights after a dog bite:
- Seek Medical Attention: Take care of your health and keep records of treatment.
- Gather Evidence: Photograph your injuries, the location, and the dog if possible.
- Witness Information: Write down contact details for anyone who saw the incident.
- Report the Incident: Contact local authorities or animal control as soon as possible.
- Consult with a Lawyer: Get legal advice on the value of your claim and next steps.
Our firm focuses on supporting your rights and helping you recover fair compensation in your unique case. We handle each claim with care and clear communication to match your situation.
Why Choose McGee Lerer Ogrin for Your Dog Bite Case?
After a dog bite, an experienced attorney can make a difference for you and your family. At McGee Lerer Ogrin, we know how an attack can upend your life, and our attorneys are committed to helping you pursue justice and fair compensation.
With over 40 years of combined experience, we handle injury claims efficiently and with compassion. Our past work as insurance adjusters means we anticipate insurance strategies and take steps for a fair outcome. From our five office locations, including Pasadena, Santa Monica, and Long Beach, we make it easy for clients anywhere in Los Angeles County to meet with us.
Here are several reasons our team is a strong choice for your dog bite claim:
- Personalized Attention: Every case receives a tailored approach with a strategy based on your needs.
- Skilled Negotiators: We understand how insurance companies operate and pursue settlements that reflect real losses.
- Prepared for Court: If negotiations do not succeed, we are ready to present your case in court before a judge or jury.
- Roots in the Community: As a local firm, we focus on making Los Angeles safer for all its residents.
- Free Consultations: Start your claim with a free, no-pressure case review so you understand your options.
Do not try to handle a dog bite case alone. Contact McGee Lerer Ogrin to schedule a consultation and let us support you on the path to recovery.
Who pays for your injuries?
The dog owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance company will pay your injury claim.
If it was a relative's or friend's dog, you do not need to worry about them paying out of pocket. The insurance company usually provides compensation, if coverage exists.
When you hire our team, we move quickly to find out if the dog owner has insurance. If the owner will not cooperate, we use an insurance tracing company to find available coverage and the policy limit. Knowing the insurance limit matters if you require surgery or care in the future, as this determines the funds available.
Many claims in Los Angeles go through national insurance carriers with regional offices in the city, which can streamline the process and improve communication. Given the city's range of living situations—apartments, houses, and rentals—insurance terms differ, but our legal team knows how to uncover policies quickly and outline your options.
What Kind Of Compensation Can I Seek For Injuries From A Dog Bite?
If you have been hurt by a dog bite in Los Angeles, you may recover several kinds of compensation. Our dog bite attorneys will help you pursue what you deserve under the law.
The types of compensation available in dog bite cases include:
- Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for hospital and doctor bills, surgeries, medication, follow-up treatment, and physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: Payment for income you missed during recovery, and compensation for future lost earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Monetary recovery for ongoing pain, emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, or PTSD caused by the incident.
- Scarring or Disfigurement: Money for permanent scars or changes to your appearance that impact your life.
- Property Damage: Replacement or repair of items damaged during the attack, like clothing, glasses, or electronics.
- Loss of Consortium: If injuries disrupt close relationships or put strain on your family, you may include those losses in your claim.
We walk you through each step of your case to seek a fair outcome for every category relevant to your injuries.
Many cases in Los Angeles involve bites in public places, such as parks or sidewalks. When an attack happens away from home, prompt medical documentation and photographic records are important. Our awareness of local adjuster expectations and court requirements strengthens your chance for a successful claim.
How big is the problem?
The following facts demonstrate how big the problem of dog bite injury is in the country:
- Every year, approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by a dog.
- Approximately one in five of those who are bitten will need medical treatment.
- Plastic surgery is often required after a dog bite.
Los Angeles County records thousands of dog bites each year, partly because the region’s active outdoor lifestyle exposes more people to pets in public. Busy neighborhoods and recreation areas bring more dogs and people together, so animal shelters and the Department of Public Health track bite incidents and trends. Understanding these risks can help you take steps to avoid injury and recognize the value of prompt legal action if you are harmed.
Who’s most at risk for a dog bite?
Children, especially those ages 5 to 9, face the highest risk for dog bite injuries. Most injuries to children affect the face and can cause permanent disfigurement.
Older adults are also at high risk. Seniors face challenges because they cannot always protect themselves easily and may fall or be knocked over by an aggressive dog, even if the animal does not bite.
Three out of four times, the dog is owned by a family member, neighbor, or friend of the victim. Read more
Urban areas of Los Angeles bring children and seniors into common spaces and sidewalks, increasing the odds that those most vulnerable encounter unfamiliar dogs. Schools, parks, and senior centers in the city are frequent locations for these incidents.
Do you have a scar as a result of the dog bite?
To seek full compensation for a dog bite injury, you should get evaluated by a plastic surgeon. Even if you do not plan to have surgery right away, a medical report detailing your injuries and the cost of recommended treatments strengthens your claim considerably.
At McGee Lerer Ogrin, our attorneys can refer you to a plastic surgeon in your area who will agree to treat you on a lien basis, meaning the doctor gets paid only once your case is resolved.
With many skilled plastic surgeons in Los Angeles, you can quickly access care for facial injuries or scars after a dog attack. When your attorney coordinates with local providers, you benefit from both prompt treatment and thorough documentation for your legal claim.
Dog bite victims often need psychological counseling.
A serious dog bite can leave lasting psychological effects. At McGee Lerer Ogrin, a Los Angeles personal injury law firm, our attorneys can connect you to a psychologist who will treat you on a lien basis.
If an immediate family member witnessed the dog attack, they may have their own claim for emotional distress and benefit from counseling as well.
Many therapists in Los Angeles assist clients coping with trauma after dog attacks, helping victims and relatives process their experiences and handle persistent anxiety. Mental health support after an incident helps both your emotional recovery and your legal claim for pain and suffering.
Is There a Time Limit to File a Lawsuit for a Dog Bite?
California law gives you two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you do not file within that time, you lose your right to seek damages for the injury.
Some exceptions may expand or shorten the deadline. If the dog owner leaves California before you can file, for example, the clock may pause while they are away.
Take prompt action after a dog bite. Working with a dog bite attorney immediately after the incident helps preserve evidence and ensures your case is filed on time. Acting early often increases your chances for full compensation.
Why You Need an Attorney
Without a lawyer, you may have a hard time getting full compensation. Insurance representatives often work to limit what they pay. With the right dog bite lawyer on your side, you have someone focused on your interests and recovery.
Dog bite injuries can have effects that last a lifetime. You deserve the most complete recovery possible for your injuries, and the attorneys at McGee Lerer Ogrin know how to seek positive results for you.
FAQ – Dog Bite Claims in Los Angeles
- What should I do immediately after a dog bite?
- Seek medical treatment immediately, even if the injury appears minor.
- Take photos of your injuries and the dog if you can do so safely.
- Get names and contact information for the dog owner and witnesses.
- Report the incident to animal control or authorities.
- Can I file a dog bite claim if the dog was provoked?
In California, the dog owner is still usually liable for a bite, even if the dog was provoked. However, the facts of provocation may reduce the compensation available. - Does my homeowner's insurance cover dog bites?
Most homeowner’s insurance includes coverage for dog bites, but you should always verify with the insurer since policies can have exclusions or limits. - What happens if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?
If the owner lacks insurance, you might need to pursue the claim directly against them. An attorney can help explore all possible compensation sources, including your own insurance if available. - How long does it take to resolve a dog bite case?
The duration depends on complexity, injuries, and whether you reach a settlement or must proceed to trial. Most dog bite claims resolve in a few months to one year. - Can I receive compensation for emotional distress after a dog bite?
Yes. Emotional harm such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD can be included in your dog bite claim, with documentation from a mental health provider. - Is there a possibility of a settlement, or will my case go to trial?
Many claims end in an out-of-court settlement, but if a fair amount is not offered, your attorney will prepare to take your case to trial.
Don’t wait—contact our experienced dog bite attorneys today at (310) 231-9717 for a free case evaluation!
