Can You Sue for a Dog Bite on Private Property?

Dog bites can cause a lot of physical pain and emotional stress. When such an incident occurs on private property, victims often wonder if they can seek legal recourse. In California, the answer is usually yes, but several factors can affect the outcome of a lawsuit. Understanding your legal rights and legal options is important. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog on private property, it is important to know the specifics of the law and how to proceed with your case.

Liability in Dog Bite Cases in Los Angeles

California follows a strict liability rule regarding dog bites. This means that a dog owner can be held liable for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog has shown previous signs of aggression or if the owner took precautions to prevent such incidents. However, additional considerations come into play when the bite occurs on private property, so consulting a dog bite attorney in Los Angeles is crucial to navigating your case’s complexities.

Trespassing and Lawful Presence

One key factor in these cases is whether the victim was lawfully present on the property. If the victim was trespassing or had no legal right to be on the property, it could complicate the ability to sue for damages; however, if the victim was invited onto the property, whether as a guest, a service provider, or for any other lawful purpose, they have a stronger case for holding the dog owner accountable.

Owner’s Duty of Care

Dog owners have a responsibility to ensure their pets do not pose a threat to others. This duty of care extends to maintaining secure fencing, proper signage, and ensuring their dogs are adequately restrained. If a dog owner fails in these responsibilities, and a bite occurs as a result, they can be held liable for the injuries sustained, even if the incident took place on their private property.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

If you have been bitten by a dog on private property, it is essential to take immediate action:

Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should come first. Even small dog bites can cause serious infections if they aren’t treated properly. Visit a healthcare professional immediately to ensure you receive appropriate care and to document your injuries.

Report the Incident: Call animal control or the police right after a dog bites you. This will create an official record of what happened, which is really important if you want to take legal action later. Give them all the details you can, like where and when it happened and how it happened.

Document Everything: Take clear photographs of your injuries from multiple angles and stages of healing. Additionally, document the location where the bite occurred, including any signs of negligence like broken fences or lack of warning signs. Gather as much evidence as possible to support your case.

Contact a Dog Bite Attorney: A skilled dog bite lawyer can help you navigate your case’s legal complexities. They’ll gather evidence, negotiate with insurance, and represent you in court if needed, ensuring you get fair compensation. Talking to a lawyer early on can help make your case stronger.

Why You Need a Dog Bite Attorney in Los Angeles

Navigating a dog bite case, especially involving private property, can be challenging. Tristan Crown and the Crown Law Group, PC team have extensive experience handling dog bite cases in Los Angeles. They understand the nuances of California’s dog bite laws and can provide the legal support you need to pursue a successful claim.

In addition to dog bite cases, they are also experienced in other personal injury cases such as truck accidents, car accidents, Uber accidents, and many more.

If you have been bitten by a dog on private property, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact Tristan Crown at Crown Law Group, PC, today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your options for compensation.