Bitten by a Dog in California? Here’s What the Law Says:
🐕 Dog Bites Can Be Serious — and Legally Actionable
Dog bites are far more common than most people realize — and under California law, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets. That means if you’ve been bitten, you likely have the right to compensation, regardless of whether the dog showed prior signs of aggression.
At The Law Offices of Timothy Combs, we help dog bite victims get the treatment, compensation, and legal support they deserve. Here’s what you need to know.
⚖️ California’s Strict Liability Rule
California Civil Code § 3342 makes it clear:
“The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog, while in a public place or lawfully in a private place…”
This means:
- No “one free bite” rule.
- You don’t have to prove the dog was previously dangerous.
- As long as you were lawfully present, the owner is responsible.
This applies whether the dog bite occurred in a public park, at someone’s home, or even in an apartment complex hallway.
🩺 Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bite injuries aren’t just painful — they can be physically and emotionally traumatic:
- Deep puncture wounds
- Facial injuries or scarring
- Nerve damage
- Infections (including tetanus or rabies)
- PTSD or fear of dogs
Young children and the elderly are especially vulnerable and may require long-term medical care or plastic surgery.
🧾 Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Dog bite victims in California may recover damages for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages or earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disfigurement or scarring
Homeowner’s insurance often covers dog bite liability — but don’t expect the insurance company to make it easy. They may downplay the bite, argue you provoked the dog, or try to settle fast for less than you deserve.
📞 Bitten by a Dog? Call a Lawyer Right Away
Dog bite cases may seem straightforward, but insurance adjusters can be aggressive — and the legal process is rarely simple. At The Law Offices of Timothy Combs, we’ll investigate the facts, deal with the insurer, and make sure your injuries and suffering are taken seriously.
If you’ve been bitten, call us today for a free consultation.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized guidance based on your circumstances, contact our office directly.