Fairfield Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog bites and attacks are serious and traumatic events, and they can cause a person to become fearful of dogs, even if they once loved the animals. When these bites and attacks happen, as they too often do in Fairfield, victims are entitled to file a claim for compensation. This compensation can help victims cover their medical expenses, lost income, and more. Victims that need to secure the full amount of compensation they deserve should speak to a Fairfield dog bite lawyer for help with their case.

Many people think they can file a dog bite claim on their own. While it is true that victims of dog bites and attacks are not required to work with a lawyer, individuals who get help are much more successful. When a lawyer works your case, he or she will:

• Gather evidence to prove a claim
• Speak to witnesses that saw the attack and can provide testimony
• Determine ownership of the animal
• Report the bite or attack to the proper animal control authorities
• Collect an incident report
• Gather relevant medical records
• Communicate with the insurance company on your behalf

While working your case, an attorney will act as your advocate at all times and will always work in your best interests.

Unlike other personal injury claims in Fairfield, you do not have to prove negligence in a dog bite claim. California does not follow the one-bite rule for dog bite claims, which means you do not have to prove that the dog had attacked someone previously, or even that the owner was aware of a violent or aggressive history of the animal. Instead, when filing a dog bite claim, you only have to prove that:

• The defendant owned the dog
• That attack or bite occurred on public property or while you were legally on private property
• You were injured by the bite or attack
• The dog caused the injury

It may not always be the dog’s owner that is liable for paying compensation for your injuries. Dog keepers or caretakers, landlords, and residential and commercial property owners can all be held liable for dog bites and attacks.

Many people do not feel comfortable filing a claim against the dog’s owner because that person is a friend or family member. However, it is important to understand that you are not filing a lawsuit against them directly. You likely have to file a claim against their insurance company, so they do not have to pay out of pocket for your expenses.

If you have been injured by a dog bite or attack, do not file a claim on your own. At the Brod Law Firm, a dog bite attorney in Fairfield is here to help. We know how to hold insurance companies responsible for paying the compensation you need to make a full recovery, and we will communicate with them on your behalf while you focus on getting better. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.