Dog bites can cause more than just physical harm—they often result in serious injuries, emotional distress, and long-term consequences that require extensive medical treatment. In California, dog owners are held responsible for the damage their pets cause, regardless of whether the dog has previously shown aggressive behavior. If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, you may be entitled to financial compensation.
At Crowell Law Offices, our experienced Vacaville dog bite lawyers understand the trauma these incidents cause and are here to protect your rights. We represent dog bite victims throughout Solano County and help them pursue the compensation they need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
Legal Rights for Dog Bite Victims in California
California law follows the principle of strict liability in dog bite cases. This means a dog owner is typically liable for injuries their pet causes, even if the dog had never previously bitten anyone. Unlike some states that use a “one bite” rule, California does not require proof that the owner knew of the dog’s aggressive tendencies. Whether the bite occurred on public property or lawfully on private property, the owner can be held responsible.
Under California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are liable for damages if:
- The injured person was bitten by the dog
- The bite occurred while the person was in a public place or lawfully on private property
This makes dog bite claims more straightforward compared to other personal injury cases, but working with a skilled attorney is still essential to maximize your compensation.
Common Injuries from Dog Attacks
Dog bites often lead to serious injuries and long-term consequences. Injured individuals may experience:
- Deep lacerations or puncture wounds
- Infections requiring antibiotic treatment
- Nerve damage or spinal cord injuries
- Facial disfigurement and scarring
- Emotional trauma, including PTSD
- Broken bones caused by falling during the attack
In some cases, particularly involving children or older adults, the attack can lead to severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment or even result in wrongful death. Our personal injury lawyers handle these sensitive situations with care and dedication, pursuing the maximum amount of compensation available.
Dog Breeds and Liability Considerations
While all dogs can bite under the wrong circumstances, certain dog breeds are statistically more likely to be involved in dog bite cases. Breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and Dobermans are frequently cited in animal attacks, but breed alone does not determine liability.
Regardless of breed, when an owner fails to control their pet or prevent a foreseeable attack, they can be held responsible. If the owner knew the dog had shown signs of aggression—or had a history of biting—this can strengthen your personal injury claim.
Premises Liability and Dog Attacks
Many dog bite cases fall under the broader category of premises liability, particularly when the bite occurs on someone else’s property. Whether the attack happened in a neighbor’s yard, apartment complex, or business property, the property owner and dog owner may both be liable, depending on the circumstances.
Premises liability law holds individuals responsible for maintaining safe environments on their property. Our legal team will evaluate whether the owner failed to:
- Properly restrain the dog
- Post warning signs
- Keep the dog in a secure enclosure
What Compensation Can Dog Bite Victims Recover?
Dog bites often result in both economic and non-economic losses. Our Vacaville personal injury lawyers will work to help you recover fair compensation for:
- Medical bills and future medical treatment
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Disfigurement or permanent scarring
- Emotional distress and psychological trauma
- Out-of-pocket costs and rehabilitation expenses
In wrongful death cases, surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other related damages.
Insurance Company Involvement in Dog Bite Claims
In many cases, insurance companies—particularly homeowners’ or renters’ insurance—will become involved after a dog attack. However, insurers often try to minimize payouts or deny liability altogether.
That’s why it’s crucial to work with injury lawyers who understand how to negotiate with the insurance company effectively. We handle all communications, gather medical records, and build a compelling case to ensure our clients aren’t short-changed by profit-driven insurers.
Why Work with a Vacaville Dog Bite Lawyer?
At Crowell Law Offices, our experienced legal team offers the support, skill, and strategy needed to secure the best possible results in dog bite and personal injury cases. We understand the legal experience and preparation needed to take on difficult insurers and negligent dog owners.
Here’s why dog bite victims choose us:
- Decades of combined experience with California personal injury law
- A track record of successful settlement outcomes
- We operate on a contingency fee basis—no attorney fees unless we win
- We provide a free consultation to discuss your legal options
- We handle a wide array of accident and injury cases, including premises liability
We also understand that many cases require extensive medical treatment. We’ll factor those future costs into your claim so you aren’t left covering expenses out of your own pocket.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Vacaville
If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog, it’s essential to:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Document your injuries and the scene of the accident
- Get the name and contact information of the dog owner
- Report the bite to local animal control or law enforcement
- Contact a Vacaville dog bite lawyer to evaluate your claim
Prompt action helps preserve evidence and improves your chances of recovering full compensation.
Learn more about how a Vacaville dog bite lawyer can help you recover compensation after an attack. Call Crowell Law Offices at (916) 303-2800 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
FAQ: Vacaville Dog Bite Lawyer
Who is liable for dog bites in California?
Under California’s strict liability law, the dog owner is usually liable for any injuries their pet causes, regardless of the dog’s past behavior.
What damages can I claim after a dog bite?
You may claim medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. Our attorneys help ensure you receive full and fair compensation.
Is there a time limit for filing a dog bite claim in California?
Yes. You typically have two years from the date of the bite to file a personal injury claim. If the dog owner is a government entity, shorter deadlines may apply.
What if I was bitten on someone else’s property?
That may qualify as a premises liability case. Our personal injury attorneys will investigate whether the property owner or tenant failed to prevent a foreseeable dog attack.
Do I have to pay anything upfront to hire a dog bite lawyer?
No. We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay attorney fees unless we win your case.
