Millions of people are bitten and attacked by dogs every year in the United States. These attacks send hundreds of thousands of victims to emergency rooms annually to receive treatment for their injuries. The injuries sustained after a dog bite are not only extremely painful, but they are also very expensive to treat. In some cases, the impact of a dog bite remains with victims for the rest of their lives. If you have been bitten or attacked by a dog, you can file a claim against the owner or controller of the animal. Our Santa Barbara dog bite lawyer can help ensure you receive the full damages that are justly yours.
The Law on Dog Bites in Santa BarbaraDog bites in California are governed by strict liability law, which protects victims and makes it easier for them to obtain the fair compensation they deserve. Under strict liability law, you do not have to prove the owner’s negligence led to the bite or attack. You also do not have to show that the owner knew the dog had an aggressive or violent history. You must only prove that you were bitten and sustained injuries as a result.
Common Injuries in Dog Bite ClaimsDog bites will cause a great number of injuries. Some of the most common of these are as follows:
Sadly, injuries after a dog bite are not always physical. Victims sometimes develop a lifelong fear of these animals afterward, even when they were avid dog lovers before the attack. Dog bites can also cause permanent scarring and disfigurement, which can result in a lifetime of shame and embarrassment. Children are particularly vulnerable to these injuries, as they are often at eye level with a dog, and they may not exercise caution when approaching an unfamiliar animal.
Common Damages in Dog Bite CasesAs with other personal injury cases, the damages available in dog bite claims are meant to restore victims as wholly as possible. Although nothing can undo the traumatic event, financial compensation can help cover the cost of injuries and other losses. Some of the most common damages awarded in dog bite claims include:
When calculating the amount of damages to pursue, it is important to include not only your current damages, but any loss you will incur in the future, as well. A Santa Barbara dog bite attorney can accurately value your claim so any settlement will fully cover the cost of your losses.
Our Dog Bite Lawyer in Santa Barbara is Here to HelpDog attacks are extremely traumatic experiences. At Brod Law Firm, our dog bite attorney in Santa Barbara can prove an animal was responsible for your injuries so you obtain the full and fair compensation the law entitles you to. Call us now at (800) 427-7020 or reach out to us online to schedule a free review of your case with our knowledgeable attorney.