California Aggressive Dogs Of the 4.7 million dog bite injuries that happen in the United States annually, the majority of them result from five breeds
- Pit Bulls
- Rottweilers
- Huskies
- Alaskan Malamutes
- German Shepherds
These animals are all known for their potentially aggressive behavior. This is especially true of pit bulls, which account for more dog bite deaths than any other breed. Many of these attacks occur between animals and children, a fact that is mostly due to a child’s loud, playful nature that an animal might construe as threatening.
Los Angeles Aggressive Dog Attack Injury Cases: Important Information About Liability
When an aggressive dog attacks someone in Los Angeles, the owner of the dog may be held liable for any injuries or damages caused. In California, dog owners are strictly liable for any injuries or damages caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggressive behavior or if the owner was aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies.
This means that if a dog attacks someone, the owner of the dog may be held financially responsible for any medical expenses, lost wages, or other damages caused by the attack. It’s important to know that the liability may extend to landlords, pet-sitters, and other people who were in charge of the dog at the time of the attack.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if the victim of the attack was trespassing on private property or if the victim was teasing or tormenting the dog, the owner may not be held liable for the attack.
If you or someone you know has been attacked by an aggressive dog in Los Angeles, it’s important to seek medical attention right away and to contact an attorney to discuss your legal options. An attorney can help you to understand your rights and can help you to pursue compensation for any injuries or damages caused by the attack.
Potential Injuries Resulting From an Aggressive Dog Attack in Los Angeles
An aggressive dog attack can cause a wide range of physical and emotional injuries. Some common types of injuries that can be caused by a dog attack include:
- Puncture wounds: Aggressive dogs can cause deep puncture wounds with their teeth, which can lead to infection, scarring, and other complications.
- Lacerations: Dogs can also cause lacerations or cuts to the skin, which can be deep and require stitches.
- Fractures: Dog attacks can also cause fractures, such as broken bones or jaw injuries.
- Scarring: Deep puncture wounds and lacerations can cause scarring, which can be both physically and emotionally distressing.
- Amputations: In severe cases, dog attacks can cause amputations of limbs or fingers.
- Head injuries: Dog bites to the face, head, or neck can cause head injuries, such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries.
- Emotional injuries: Dog attacks can also cause emotional injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression.
- Fatalities: In extreme cases, dog attacks can be fatal.
It’s important to note that dog attacks can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender or size, and the injuries caused can vary depending on the breed of the dog, the severity of the attack, and other factors.
Also, you should be aware that even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously injured when a dog bites you, if you don’t seek medical attention, you could potentially develop an infection or other such injury. Thus, whenever you’ve been attacked by a dog, it’s best to err on the side of caution and see a doctor right away.
Holding the Defendant Accountable for a Dog Bite Injury
Upon seeking immediate medical assistance, the victim should contact a personal injury attorney at the Law Offices of Howard C. Kornberg who is familiar with California’s strict dog bite laws. In this state, owners are held liable for their animals’ violent actions, and dog owners may be liable for punitive damages if they harbor a vicious animal with known aggressive propensities.
A lawyer will work on the plaintiff’s behalf to prepare the lawsuit and ensure that the damages awarded are equal to the pain and suffering caused during the attack. Being mauled by an animal can be extremely frightening and may cause years of anxiety, especially around large animals. Such fear can take a serious toll on the victim’s quality of life and may require psychiatric counseling to help the victim towards recovery. Howard Kornberg defends the interests of dog bite injury victims throughout California. His trial litigation skills are some of the best, a fact recognized in a renowned peer-reviewed journal published by Martindale-Hubbell.
Find out more about Dog Attacks.
Howard C. Kornberg is AV-rated by Martindale Hubbell, the highest rating given to dog bite attorneys for legal trial skills and ethical standards.