San Rafael Dog Bite Lawyer

California is a state that has one of the highest rates of dog bites. It is easy to see why, really. With the beautiful weather and gorgeous climate, people are often out with their dogs and those pets interact with many different people whether they are just on a stroll or at a dog park. These interactions do not always go well and when that is the case, dog bite victims are left with very serious injuries. Dog bite victims can claim compensation for these injuries, but they should always first speak to a San Rafael dog bite lawyer that can help them get the full amount possible.

San Rafael, and the rest of California, operates under the strict liability law in dog bite cases. This means that when someone is bitten by a dog, they do not have to prove that the dog owner was negligent. Victims do not have to prove that the owner failed to restrain their dog, or that the owner knew the dog had a violent or aggressive history. Victims must only prove that the dog bit them.

However, there are a few exceptions included within the dog bite statute. If the victim provoked the dog, they are barred from receiving any compensation. Additionally, if the dog bit someone that was committing a crime, such as trespassing, the dog bite victim is also barred from receiving any compensation. If you are unsure how to proceed in your case, a dog bite attorney in San Rafael can help.

Most people think that dog bites only result in minor scratches and perhaps shallow lacerations. This is not the case, though. Injuries resulting from a dog bite are divided into six different categories. These include:

• Grade 1: Bruising and scratches
• Grade 2: Bite marks, but without puncturing the skin
• Grade 3: Bite marks that do puncture the skin
• Grade 4: Deep wounds that are accompanied with ripped flesh
• Grade 5: Many different wounds that punctured the skin in a single attack
• Grade 6: Death

Another common injury that is not included in the categories is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This injury occurs when a person becomes scared of dogs, even when they loved the animal prior to the bite or attack. Due to the nature of a dog’s mouth, that is often a breeding ground for bacteria, complications associated with the injury are also extremely common. The most common of these are infections, which can result in months of recovery.

Dog bites result in very serious injuries, and victims are entitled to claim compensation that can help them recover from those injuries. At the Brod Law Firm, a dog bite attorney in San Rafael can help with your case. We know how to prove these cases, and to secure the full amount of damages you need. Do not take on your case alone. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys.