Westlake Village Dog Bite Lawyer

Pets are an integral addition to many families. They provide unconditional love, companionship, and loyalty to those who care for them and keep them safe. Unfortunately, when dogs feel threatened or afraid, they may react by biting and attacking, resulting in painful injuries and trauma for the victim.

California civil law offers recourse to those who have been affected by dangerous animal attacks. Through personal injury legislation, you may be entitled to compensation when you suffer bodily harm from a bite or attack. A seasoned Westlake Village dog bite lawyer could review your case and provide legal support through this challenging experience.

Liability for Dog Bites and Attacks

California follows a strict liability rule for damages from dog bites and attacks. As outlined by the California Civil Code § 3342, dog owners are liable for damages resulting from bites and attacks occurring in public locations or private properties when the victim enters the premises lawfully.

However, there are certain exceptions under this code that may prevent the owner from being liable for bodily harm and other damages resulting from animal attacks, such as:

• Harassing or provoking the animal before the attack
• The dog acting in defense of the owner or police officer

A Westlake Village dog bite attorney could investigate a case thoroughly, collect the evidence needed to establish liability, and demand a fair award for damages.

Possible Damages Recovery

In Westlake Village, the court considers various factors when determining financial compensation, including evidence of bodily harm, the ongoing impact on the injured party’s life, and the dog owner’s actions leading up to the incident. Some of the possible damages the court may award are:

• Property damages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and anguish
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Loss of earnings, benefits, and future earning potential
• Loss of quality of life and the inability to enjoy activities they appreciated before the accident
• The cost of medical expenses resulting from the accident—emergency room, hospital stay, ambulance fee, and doctor visits
• Ongoing healthcare treatments—physical and psychological therapy, medical equipment, medications, and transportation for medical appointments

According to the World Health Organization, or WHO, there is no record of the exact number of unprovoked dog attacks, but they estimate there are millions of dog bite injuries annually. The California civil courts seek to provide adequate and fair compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial injuries the plaintiff sustains as a result of the animal attack.

Insurance Company Communication

The coverage for injuries and property damage from dog bites often falls within homeowners insurance coverage. Therefore, a provider representative usually reaches out promptly for a statement.

They may also mention settlement amounts to resolve the claim quickly. A dog bite lawyer in Westlake Village could handle the communication and negotiations on the injured person’s behalf to ensure they collect an adequate settlement amount to cover the full extent of their injuries and losses.

Reach Out to a Dedicated Dog Bite Attorney in Westlake Village

Many states throughout the country impose a “one bite rule,” and the victim of dog attacks must prove the animal has a history of aggression to collect damages. However, California adheres to a strict liability rule. In other words, dog owners are always liable for damages, except in specific circumstances.

If you or a loved one suffered harm because of a negligent pet owner, you have every right to seek financial recovery. Schedule a consultation with an experienced Westlake Village dog bite lawyer to begin preparing your claim.