Our San Jose Dog Bite Attorney Can Help You

In California, dog owners are held strictly liable when their animals cause injury to another person. This means, if you or someone you know was bitten or attacked by a dog; you may have grounds for a personal injury claim against the dog owner. This claim may give you the opportunity of recovering much-needed financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and possibly much more.

To learn more about your right to financial recovery following a dog bite or dog attack in the San Jose area, contact Pacific Attorney Group today at 800.358.9617. Your initial consultation is free, and with the help of a skilled personal injury attorney, you can get the information and guidance you need to make an informed decision about moving forward with a claim against the dog owner.

Understanding Dog Bite Laws in San Jose

Dog bite laws in San Jose follow both California state law and the city’s municipal code. Here’s a summary of the key aspects:

Owner’s Liability:

• Strict liability: Dog owners are strictly liable for any damages caused by their dog’s bite if the victim was lawfully in a public place or private property. This applies regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of it.
• No one-bite rule: Unlike some states, California doesn’t have a “one-bite rule.” The owner’s liability holds even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.

Reporting Requirements:

• All bites: All dog bites, regardless of the severity or vaccination status of the dog, must be reported to the City of San Jose Animal Care & Services Division within 24 hours.
• Rabies risk: If the bite is considered a rabies risk by the state, the dog must be quarantined for at least 10 days for observation.

Vaccination:

• Required: Dog owners must ensure their dogs are vaccinated against rabies as per state law.
• Quarantine: Even if vaccinated, a biting dog might still be quarantined depending on the rabies risk assessment.

Common Types of Bog Bite Injuries

While the severity of dog bite injuries can vary greatly, some of the most common types include:

1. Puncture Wounds: These deep, piercing injuries caused by the dog’s teeth can be especially dangerous if they reach vital structures like nerves, tendons, or blood vessels.
2. Lacerations: These are deep cuts or tears in the skin, often requiring stitches to close.
3. Abrasions: These scrapes and scratches on the skin’s surface are usually less severe but can still be painful and prone to infection.
4. Crush Injuries: These occur when the dog’s jaws clamp down on tissue, causing deep bruising and possible damage to underlying muscles or bones.
5. Avulsions: These are complete or partial tearing away of skin and tissue, which can be very serious and require immediate medical attention.
6. Head and Neck Injuries: Bites to the face, head, and neck can be particularly dangerous due to the risk of injuring vital structures like eyes, ears, and blood vessels.
7. Infections: Dog bites are prone to infection from bacteria in the dog’s mouth.

Remember, any dog bite, regardless of its severity, should be promptly evaluated by a medical professional to ensure proper treatment and prevent potential complications.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Incident in San Jose

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in San Jose, it’s essential to take certain steps to protect your health and legal rights. Here are the steps you should follow after a dog bite incident:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if the bite seems minor, it’s important to seek medical attention. Some dog bites can lead to infections and other complications, so it’s crucial to get proper medical treatment.
2. Identify the Dog and Owner: If possible, try to identify the dog and its owner. Obtain their contact information and any details about the dog, such as its breed and vaccination history. This information will be helpful for legal purposes and for verifying the dog’s rabies vaccination status.
3. Document the Incident: Take photographs of your injuries, the location of the incident, and any visible signs of negligence, such as broken fences or lack of warning signs. Collect witness contact information as well, as their statements may support your case.
4. Report the Incident: Contact the local animal control or the San Jose Police Department to report the dog bite incident. Provide them with all the details you have gathered, including the dog and owner’s information. This step helps ensure the incident is documented and may prevent future bites.
5. Preserve Evidence: Keep all records related to the incident, including medical bills, prescriptions, and receipts for any expenses incurred due to the dog bite. These documents will be important when seeking compensation for your injuries.
6. Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney: It’s advisable to consult with a San Jose attorney who specializes in personal injury law, particularly dog bite cases. They will offer guidance on your legal rights, help determine liability, and assist in seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
7. Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: Adhere to the prescribed treatment plan and attend all follow-up appointments. Your medical records will play a crucial role in establishing the severity of your injuries and the damages you suffered.
8. Pursue Legal Action: If negotiations with the dog owner’s insurance company fail to reach a fair settlement, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit. They will guide you through the legal process, represent your interests, and work towards obtaining the compensation you deserve.

Remember, each dog bite case is unique, and the steps you take may vary depending on the circumstances. Consulting with a personal injury attorney experienced in dog bite cases will provide you with tailored advice and help ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Why Hiring a San Jose Dog Bite Attorney is Crucial for Your Case

Hiring a San Jose dog bite attorney is crucial for your case because they can provide the necessary expertise and support throughout the legal process. Dog bite cases can be complex, and having an attorney who specializes in these cases can ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

Factors to consider when choosing a dog bite attorney in San Jose include their resources and experience with dog bite cases. Attorneys can handle investigations, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and determine the appropriate amount of compensation.

They can also advise on whether to settle or file a lawsuit. Additionally, attorneys can help navigate the special procedures followed in cases involving child victims. Overall, hiring a dog bite attorney can greatly increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.

How to Pursue Dog Bite Claim Process

During the dog bite claim process, there are several steps to expect before receiving compensation for your injuries.

1. Firstly, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately and follow the doctor’s instructions to document your injuries. After that, you should consult with a local attorney who specializes in personal injury law, specifically dog bite cases. They will guide you through the legal process and help you seek compensation.
2. The next step involves filing a report and collecting contact information and evidence related to the incident. This includes obtaining the dog owner’s information, gathering witness statements, and taking photographs of the injuries and the scene of the incident.
3. Once you have gathered the necessary information, your attorney will help you negotiate a settlement with the responsible party or their insurance company. This process may take time, and it’s important to be patient.
4. If a settlement is reached, you will need to sign a release form, and the responsible party will issue a check for your compensation. However, it typically takes about four to six weeks to receive the payment, but delays can occur if the insurance company prolongs the process.
5. In cases involving child victims, special procedures must be followed, including obtaining court approval of the settlement. This ensures that the child’s best interests are protected.

It’s important to note that California has strict liability laws regarding dog bites, meaning that dog owners are generally responsible for their dog’s aggressive behavior. However, there are exceptions to this law, such as if the bite was provoked or if the dog is a service animal.

By hiring a dog bite attorney, you can benefit from their expertise in collecting evidence, challenging defenses, and navigating the complex laws. They will work to establish the dog owner’s responsibility and protect your rights throughout the legal process.

Compensation for Dog Bite Victims in San Jose

In San Jose, dog bite victims are entitled to seek financial compensation from the owner of the dog. The state law in California holds the owner responsible for any damages resulting from a dog bite, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior.

Additionally, San Jose has its municipal code that provides civil remedies for victims of animal bites. Dog owners in San Jose can be held strictly liable for bite injuries that occur in public places, even without proving negligence.

Compensation for dog bite victims may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Dog bite victims should consult with a San Jose dog bite attorney to understand their rights and pursue their claims.

Top 5 Reasons to Hire Our San Jose Dog Bite Attorney: Protect Your Rights and Get the Compensation You Deserve!

Dog bite injuries can be physically and emotionally devastating, and navigating the legal aftermath can be complex. Hiring a San Jose dog bite attorney can be crucial to ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are the top 5 reasons why:

1. Knowledge of Dog Bite Laws: Dog bite laws in California are intricate, with strict liability principles and specific reporting requirements. An attorney understands these nuances and can build a strong case on your behalf.
2. Negotiation Expertise: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts for dog bite claims. A skilled attorney knows how to negotiate effectively with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
3. Experience in Trial: If your case goes to trial, having an experienced attorney in your corner is invaluable. They can present your case persuasively to the jury and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
4. Emotional Support: Dog bite incidents can be traumatizing. A compassionate attorney can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process, helping you cope with the emotional impact of the attack.
5. Free Consultations: Many San Jose dog bite attorneys offer free consultations to discuss your case and assess your options. This allows you to understand your legal rights and make informed decisions without any upfront financial commitment.

Remember, dog bite injuries are serious, and you don’t have to face this alone. Contacting a San Jose dog bite attorney can be the first step toward getting the justice and compensation you deserve.

Personal Attention and Tailor-Made Representation for Your San Jose Dog Bite Claim

Dog bite claims and lawsuits may be sensitive. Many of these cases involve plaintiffs and defendants who know one another. The dog owner may be a friend, neighbor, or family member. You may wish to make sure nothing happens to the dog, or that the dog owner is not bankrupt because you are seeking help for your medical care.

At our law firm, we work with our clients on a one-on-one basis to ensure we properly represent their interests and address their particular concerns to offer the level of legal representation that not only offers them the opportunity of recovering maximum financial compensation but that enables them to protect the dog or dog owner if that is what they want.

For help with your dog bite injury claim, contact a San Jose dog bite lawyer at Pacific Attorney Group today. Your initial consultation is free and always confidential.