Dog Bite Lawyer in Orange County, CA

When it comes to dog bites, California is a strict liability state. Orange County dog owners cannot use either ignorance or inexperience as an excuse. Simply put, it does not matter if the dog has not bitten anyone before. It does not matter if the dog has never shown any signs of aggression. Under California Civil Code 3342, dog owners may be held liable for any bite that occurs in public. They are also on the hook for bites on private property when the victim is there lawfully. Invited guests and service providers meet this standard. What do damages typically involve? This list might include medical bills for a person, vet bills for an animal, or repair bills for property damaged during the event. Have you suffered a dog bite injury? Reach out to Silverthorne Attorneys. We will match you with an experienced dog attack attorney. They will listen carefully to your account. Then, they will advocate diligently to secure the full compensation that you deserve.

Fur can fly in minutes. A casual look turns into a lunge. Then, violence erupts. Your dog was attacked by another dog in Orange County. The unsettling event has you wondering. What is your next step? Should you visit the vet? When you suspect your dog has a serious injury, do not wait. How can you tell if it is serious? If you are not sure, consider these facts about dog health. Unexplained seizures can indicate brain damage. A swollen nose can warn of nasal fractures. Difficulty breathing might point to broken ribs. Bleeding from the mouth or nose can signal head injuries. Severe puncture wounds can be a warning sign for serious internal injuries. Pain, lethargy, or being off-balance can hint at injuries that require professional assessment. Getting proper treatment protects your dog’s health and comfort. Having photos, notes, and a vet’s report of your dog’s injuries also provides evidence. A skilled dog bite lawyer can use these materials as building blocks. They offer proof of the damage done in an attack. This means that they can be useful in forming a strong case to secure the compensation that you deserve.

How do you defend against an unfair dog bite lawsuit? California is a strict liability state. However, courts recognize some defenses. Trespassing is one example. Dog owners are generally expected to pay damages for an undue bite suffered by someone who is legally allowed to be where the bite happened. A person trespassing on private property is not there lawfully. Therefore, they are not entitled to demand compensation for a dog bite. Provocation is a trickier defense. Did the person tease, bait, or otherwise provoke the dog into biting? If so, the court may decide they are partially or fully to blame for their own injuries. Are you being unjustly blamed for a dog bite? Contact an Orange County legal professional. A capable dog bite attorney is a powerful ally. After hearing your story, they can work to reduce or eliminate your liability. They will review the facts, assemble a compelling case, and present it effectively.

If you have suffered a dog bite, you are not alone. Each year in California, roughly 560,000 people are bitten by a dog. About 20%, or some 112,000 people, will seek medical care for their injuries. As a result, nearly $50 million is spent annually for direct medical costs related to dog bites. Infection is the greatest risk with a dog bite. Around 50% of dog bites carry dangerous bacteria. Rabies is another worry, especially if the vaccination history of the biting animal is unknown. An infected dog bite is a major health risk. Seeking treatment from a healthcare provider is key. It also helps provide clear records of your injury, your treatment, and certain expenses. Are you interested in seeking compensation for your injury via a dog bite lawsuit? Speak with an Orange County personal injury attorney at Silverthorne Attorneys to explore the possibilities.

Working to prevent dog bites protects you, your dog, and others. Since Orange County dog owners are generally responsible for unprovoked dog bites, being proactive is a smart way to reduce your liability. Try these prevention tips. Ensure your dog receives obedience training from a reputable professional. Socialize your dog so they know how to behave around other people and animals. Educate yourself about canine body language and triggers for dog aggression. Then, pay attention. Work to limit your dog’s exposure to triggers. Always supervise them when they are outside. Be extra alert around strangers and children. Follow the rules regarding licensing, leashing, and vaccinations. Finally, make sure that your dog has regular veterinary care. What if your best efforts are not enough to avoid a dog bite? Connect with an experienced dog bite lawyer immediately. At Silverthorne Attorneys, our knowledgeable team has an in-depth understanding of California law. We know every situation is unique, so we are ready to listen carefully to your story so that we can gather all the relevant details. Then, we’ll use our expertise and resources to build a persuasive case. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.