Dog bite injuries can be both physically and emotionally traumatic. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Silicon Valley, it is important to know your rights and options for legal action. A dog bite injury attorney can help you understand the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

In California, dog owners are strictly liable for any injuries caused by their pet companions. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner is responsible for any damages, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or if the owner was aware of the dog’s dangerous behavior.

If Injured, Seek Medical Attention

If you have been bitten by a dog in Silicon Valley, the first step is to seek medical attention for your injuries. Be sure to document the extent of your injuries and keep all medical bills and records. Next, it is crucial to identify the dog and its owner. If the dog is not known to you, try to get a description of the animal and its owner, as well as any witnesses to the incident.

Once you have identified the dog and its owner, contact a dog bite injury attorney, who will help you understand your rights and options for legal action. They can also help you gather evidence to support your case, such as witness statements, photographs of your injuries, and medical records.

It is also important to note that, even if the victim is bitten by a dog that is a “dangerous breed,” the owner can still be held liable for the injuries caused by the dog. California law does not discriminate between breeds, so even if the dog is a Pit Bull, Rottweiler, or any other breed often associated with aggressive behavior, the owner can still be held liable.

A dog bite injury attorney can also help you negotiate with the dog owner’s insurance company, who may at first hand try to settle your case for a low amount, but an attorney can help you fight for a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Talk with an Attorney Before Accepting Any Settlement Offers

It is also important to note that, as a victim of a dog bite, you should not accept any kind of settlement without consulting with an attorney first. Sometimes, insurance companies, dog owners, and their attorneys will offer low settlement amounts that are not even close to covering the victim’s medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney can file a lawsuit on your behalf and allow you to present your case to a judge or jury and seek compensation for your injuries.

Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that dog bite cases can be complex and time-consuming, so it is essential to choose an attorney who has experience handling dog bite cases. A good attorney will know the local laws, have experience negotiating with insurance companies, and have a track record of successfully representing dog bite victims.

Compassionate Attorneys, You Can Trust

If your life has been damaged as a result of a dog bite, the highly experienced personal injury attorneys at the Emanuel Law Group will do their utmost to help you get the compensation you deserve. Let us fight your legal battles while you focus on healing. Contact us at (800) 308-0870 or use our online form to set up a free consultation.

The Emanuel Law Group provides expert legal guidance and representation to clients in Silicon Valley and throughout the Bay Area. We have offices in San Mateo, San Francisco, and San Jose.