Long Beach Dog Bite Lawyer

Long Beach Dog Bite Attorney

Most people enjoy the company of dogs. They can be loyal, goofy, fun-loving animals who add enjoyment and love to your life. Playing with them, taking them for rides in the car, and giving them your love can make your life brighter. Regrettably, not all dogs are like that. Some can be quite dangerous and add unnecessary complications to your life through unprovoked aggression. If a dog bites you, you should reach out to a Long Beach dog bite lawyer.

At McLachlan Law, APC, we can provide you with the experience and knowledge you need to handle what can be a complex case. When a dog bites someone, it can be the beginning of a long, difficult situation involving multiple parties. We understand how debilitating your injuries can be, especially if the dog bite is severe. We can help you get your life back on track following a dog attack.

Best Long Beach, CA Dog Bite Lawyer

California’s Dog Bite Laws

If you are bitten by a dog in the state of California, the dog’s owner is wholly responsible for reimbursing you for any damages you have suffered from the bite. It does not matter if the dog has never shown any evidence of aggressive behavior in the past or has never bitten anyone before. All it takes is one incident for legal action to follow. Dog owners have a legal responsibility to keep others safe from any injuries that their dog might cause.

If you are bitten by a dog and wish to pursue legal action against the dog’s owner, it is important to know that the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in California is two years. That gives you two years from the date of your initial injury to start building a case, gathering the evidence you need, consulting with a personal injury lawyer, and ultimately, filing a claim for damages. If you are unable to file within the two-year time frame, your case may be dismissed.

Building a personal injury case, even for a dog bite or animal attack, can take a considerable amount of time. It is recommended that you start consulting with a lawyer and building a case as soon as you can. The longer you wait, the harder it may be to develop a strong claim.

What to Do If You Are Bitten by a Dog in Long Beach, CA

Getting attacked by a dog can be a frightening and damaging experience, especially if you are attacked by a larger dog. Depending on the location of your injury, the damage to your body, and the depth of the injury, you could be dealing with an awful situation. It is crucial that you seek medical attention as quickly as you can. Some important steps you can take to make sure your wound is treated properly are to:

  • Wash the Wound: As soon as you can get away from the dog, wash out your wound with soap and water. You should spend about five to ten minutes cleaning the wound thoroughly.
  • Stop the Bleeding: If your wound is bleeding, use a clean cloth to slow the bleeding down. Wrap the cloth around your wound tightly. This is a temporary measure to slow the bleeding while you get to a doctor for a professional cleaning.
  • Antibiotics: If you have any over-the-counter antibiotics in your home, such as hydrogen peroxide or bacitracin, you may want to use those on your wound. Applying an antibiotic ointment can help prevent infections from settling in and can contribute to the wound’s cleaning.
  • See a Doctor: As soon as you can, go see a doctor. If your wound is particularly serious, you may want to have someone drive you to the doctor’s office just to be safe. A doctor can help you with a treatment plan, which you should follow to ensure your claim is taken seriously.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Dog Bite Claim Pay in California?

A: The amount a dog bite claim may pay in California will vary depending on the case. Each case is different in its own way. Your case will take certain factors into consideration, such as the severity of your injuries, the dog’s history of aggression, and your lawyer’s experience. The most influential factor is usually the severity of the injury and the medical expenses associated with it.

Q: Does California Have a One Bite Rule for Dogs?

A: No, California does not have a one bite rule for dogs. It does not matter if the dog that attacked you has no history of aggression or has never bitten anyone before. California has very strict liability laws for dog owners. If their dog causes someone damage, it is up to the dog owner to compensate the victim for those damages. This applies to all breeds of dogs.

Q: How Do I Report a Dog Bite in Long Beach, California?

A: If you are bitten by a dog and wish to report it to the proper authorities, you should contact Long Beach Animal Control. You can find their number online. It is recommended that you report any kind of animal attack in the area to Long Beach Animal Control, not just dog bites. Following a dog bite, you should also call 911 to make a formal report. Additionally, take photos of the injury and seek medical attention.

Q: Can You Pursue Legal Action for a Minor Dog Bite in Long Beach, California?

A: Yes, you can pursue legal action for a minor dog bite in Long Beach, California. Under California’s strict liability laws for dog owners, it doesn’t matter how serious or minor the injury is. A minor dog bite may still carry a powerful emotional or psychological injury, even if the physical injury isn’t that bad. It’s all about holding the necessary people accountable for your situation.

Reach Out To A Long Beach Dog Bite Lawyer Today

If you are dealing with the fallout from a dog bite, you should reach out to a Long Beach dog bite attorney to get your situation resolved properly. At McLachlan Law, APC, we are prepared to help you develop your case, gather the necessary evidence, and make sure your interests are protected as we proceed with your case. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.

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