If you suffered injury as the result of a dog bite or your child did, you know how scary the attack itself can be and how overwhelming the aftermath is. In the midst of the confusion, medical needs and other issues, you may not know that you could actually have valid grounds to move forward with a civil claim.
Many dog bite victims are unaware of the fact that they have legal options. You may be able to secure compensation for your medical needs and other losses, but you would be wise to take quick action to protect your rights. In California, dog owners are strictly liable for damages caused by their animals, but you have no time to lose in learning about the most appropriate course of action for your situation.
What should a victim do after an attack?
It is frightening to have a dog bite you. Due to shock and the pain experienced from your injuries, you may not be aware of the best way to proceed after an attack. It can be beneficial for victims to ascertain who the owner of the dog is and to preserve any evidence from the attack, which may include witness accounts and photographs of the injuries.
Proving your case
Because California is a state that holds dog owners strictly liable for any damages caused by their pets, you will need to present evidence that clearly proves the following in order to have a successful claim:
- You suffered an attack and one or multiple bites from the dog.
- The defendant named in your civil claim is the owner of the dog.
- You were lawfully on public or private premises at the time of your attack.
- Your pain and suffering were direct results of the attack.
Even if you are unsure of whether you have a claim, you can still get a complete explanation of your rights and the potential legal options available to you.
In addition to the physical injuries that are possible when a dog bites a person, a victim can also suffer other injuries that are unseen. The emotional trauma and mental anguish that result from an animal attack are very real, and victims may seek compensation for both their physical damage and their internal damage as well. A dog bite is a big deal, and after seeking medical care, you would be prudent to find out how you can claim rightful recovery. Contact a dog-bite lawyer for help.
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