Who pays your medical bills after a dog bite in Lomita?
California law makes dog owners responsible for injuries their animals cause. That means the dog owner's homeowner's insurance or renter's insurance policy often pays for your medical treatment and other losses after a dog bite.
California Civil Code § 3342(a) holds dog owners strictly liable when their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully in a private place. This law applies even if the dog never showed aggression before, and the owner did not know it was dangerous.
Where do you file a dog bite lawsuit in Lomita?
If you need to file a lawsuit after a dog bite in Lomita, your case goes to the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. For incidents within Lomita, the lawsuit is generally filed in the court's Southwest District, which handles cases at the Torrance Courthouse.
The Torrance Courthouse is located at 825 Maple Ave, Torrance, CA 90503. In Los Angeles County, personal injury cases are filed in the judicial district where the incident happened and are assigned to that district's Personal Injury Hub department (LASC Local Rule 2.3).
How long do you have to file a dog bite claim in California?
Most personal injury claims, including dog bites, must be filed within two years from the date of the injury (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1). This deadline lets you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and non-economic harm like pain and suffering.
However, if a public entity like the City of Lomita, Los Angeles County, or a transit agency owns the dog or is responsible for your injury, you only have six months to present a formal claim (Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2). Failing to meet this shorter deadline almost always means losing your right to sue. While the deadline is generally paused while an injured person is a minor under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 352, that pause does not apply to claims against public entities.
What steps should you take after a dog bite?
When a dog bites you, immediate actions protect your health and your legal rights:
- Get Medical Attention: Dog bites can lead to serious infections and hidden injuries. See a doctor or visit an urgent care clinic right away, even if the wound seems minor.
- Identify the Dog and Owner: If possible, get the dog owner's name, address, phone number, and insurance information. Also, try to get the dog's breed and vaccination records.
- Gather Witness Information: Collect contact details from anyone who saw the incident. Their statements can be valuable later.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of your injuries, the dog, the location where the bite happened, and any torn clothing. Do this as soon as you can.
- Report the Bite: Contact Los Angeles County Animal Control. A formal report creates an official record of the incident.
- Do Not Give a Recorded Statement: Do not give any recorded statements to the dog owner's insurance company without talking to an attorney first.
- Speak with an Attorney: An attorney can explain your rights and help you understand how to pursue compensation. You can learn more about how our firm handles these claims on our Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney page.
What kinds of cases do Lomita dog bite attorneys handle?
Our firm helps people injured by dog bites in Lomita and throughout Los Angeles County. We handle cases ranging from minor puncture wounds to severe attacks requiring extensive medical care and reconstructive surgery. Dog bites can cause both physical injuries and deep emotional trauma, especially for children.
Beyond the immediate injury, we also help clients claim compensation for things like lost income if they cannot work due to their injuries, future medical care, and the emotional distress caused by the attack. Our goal is to ensure you receive the full compensation available under California law for all the ways a dog bite affects your life.
What working with Casa Legal Los Angeles involves?
When you work with Casa Legal Los Angeles, you get a team focused on your recovery and protecting your rights. We start by listening to your story and investigating the dog bite incident thoroughly. This includes gathering medical records, witness statements, and animal control reports.
We handle all communication with insurance companies, working to settle your claim fairly. If a fair settlement is not possible, we are prepared to take your case to court. We work on a contingency fee basis. This means no attorney's fees or case costs unless we win. We have experience with various personal injury claims, including those in nearby communities like Lomita car accidents or Santa Clarita dog bite cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is "strict liability" for dog bites in California?
Strict liability means a dog owner is legally responsible for their dog's bite injuries regardless of whether the dog had a history of aggression or the owner knew it was dangerous. This standard applies if the bite occurs in a public place or while the victim is lawfully on private property, as outlined in California Civil Code § 3342(a).
What if the dog owner doesn't have insurance?
If a dog owner does not have homeowner's or renter's insurance, recovering compensation can be more complicated but is still possible. Our firm will explore other options, such as pursuing compensation directly from the owner's personal assets or other available insurance policies. We can review your specific situation to determine the best course of action.
Can I sue if a dog didn't bite me but knocked me over and injured me?
Yes, you can sue for injuries caused by a dog even if it did not bite you. California law holds dog owners responsible for injuries their animals cause due to their negligence, such as knocking someone over. These types of cases fall under general negligence principles rather than the strict liability rule for bites under Civil Code § 3342(a).
How long does a dog bite claim typically take in Los Angeles County?
The time it takes to resolve a dog bite claim varies greatly depending on the severity of your injuries, the complexity of the case, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate. Simple cases might settle in a few months, while more complex cases, especially those requiring significant medical treatment or involving litigation at the Torrance Courthouse, can take longer. We work to resolve your claim as efficiently as possible while fighting for the compensation you deserve.
A dog bite in Lomita can be a distressing experience, leaving you with physical pain and emotional scars. Do not face this alone. Reach out to Casa Legal Los Angeles at 888-585-2529 for a conversation about your options. No attorney's fees or case costs unless we win.