When a dog attack incident occurs, it can be a frightening experience. In January 2020, a man and his dog were attacked by two Pitbulls at the intersection of Chase and Plum Streets in Novato. The man suffered scratches and bruises, while his dog suffered neck and chest injuries that required surgery.

When a dog attacks someone, the incident always leaves permanent damage beyond the individual’s physical bite injuries. In most cases, the dog bite incident also takes an emotional toll. Whether the person is an adult or a child, they may experience intense anxiety, fear, and insecurity due to the attack.

If you or a family member has suffered injuries in a dog bite incident in Novato or elsewhere in Marin County, call our experienced California dog bite attorneys at (415) 521-2515 or (800) 404-5400 for a free, no-obligation consultation.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 4.5 million people in the United States are bitten yearly, and over 800,000 are treated for dog bite injuries. Below are more dog bite facts:

• Almost one in five people bitten by dogs requires medical attention.
• Children are most commonly bitten by dogs.
• Most children are bitten while playing with a family dog.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) states that:

• California is one of the leading states for dog attacks.
• California had the second most dog bite deaths.
• Dog bite attacks have increased exponentially in California.

A dog attack can be highly traumatic. Common injuries usually associated with a severe dog bite include:

• Amputations
• Broken bones
• Deep contusions
• Eye injuries
• Head injuries
• Lacerations
• Puncture wounds
• Scars

Except for rare occasions, dog bites don’t usually come out of nowhere. A dog might feel biting is its best response to certain situations for several reasons. Unfortunately, most people often miss the warning signs that a dog may attack. Most dogs try to communicate discomfort before biting by growling, barking, or snapping at the air. However, there are various reasons a dog might bite:

• Fear: A dog might fear someone getting close to them or into their space.
• Startled: A dog who is suddenly startled may be confused or disoriented.
• Protecting: A dog might bite to protect valuable items such as toys or puppies.
• Pain: Even the most tolerant dogs can bite when injured, in pain, or stressed out.
• Frustration: A dog might bite when overwhelmed or trapped in an uncomfortable situation.
• Play: Light biting or playing is how dogs naturally play with each other and their toys.

Before treating a dog bite injury, ensure the dog has been restrained. The first priority is the safety of all involved, including the injured person, the rescuer, and the dog.

• Use a clean, dry towel to apply pressure to the bite.
• Clean the wound thoroughly with warm water and soap.
• Cover the injury with a clean, dry dressing.

If the bite has punctured your skin, see a doctor within 24 hours for appropriate medical care.

Injured individuals often spend thousands of dollars on medical procedures and physical therapy to return to normalcy. If you were attacked by a dog, you should not have to pay for your medical expenses and other damages. The owner of the dog should be held financially liable. You can seek compensation for damages such as:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Facial Scarring
• Permanent disfigurement or disability
• Rehabilitation
• Emotional distress
• Pain and suffering

California has a strict liability statute when it comes to dog bites. This means dog owners are responsible for their pets’ actions, even if the dogs have not shown any signs of aggression.

However, there are very few exceptions to the law:

• if the dog was provoked by cruelty or abuse
• if someone was trespassing on the owner’s property
• if someone is committing a crime

In most dog bite cases, pet owners can be held financially responsible and receive a citation or face other penalties related to the animal attack.

In most California dog bite cases, the injured person will try to file a claim themselves or decide not to take legal action. However, hiring an attorney is almost always the best choice to make. Dog bite attorneys are familiar with California laws regarding dog attacks and will fight on your behalf against the animal owner. An experienced California dog bite lawyer knows what it takes to win and can provide expert guidance.

Our Novato dog attack attorneys are trained negotiators skilled at obtaining the maximum compensation for our clients. We are also qualified trial lawyers who are unafraid to take your case to court if the insurance company offers a lowball settlement.

Watch the YouTube video below to learn why hiring a lawyer for your dog bite claim is essential.

Dog bites can go deeper than scars and broken bones. Emotional trauma can last a lifetime. If you have been bitten or attacked by an animal, call our Novato dog bite attorneys to determine if you are entitled to pursue compensation for your damages. To speak with our top-rated California injury lawyers about your legal options, please call (415) 521-2515 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice.

Our legal team has handled numerous dog attack cases with notable verdicts and settlements since 1982. We have the experience and knowledge to provide top-notch representation for our clients.

^{Editor’s Note: updated [cha 10.4.23] Photo by Crazypitbull on Pixabay cha [cs 950] bw}