When you’re attacked by a dog, it’s natural to have questions. For instance, you probably wonder why the dog bit you, if you ignored the warning signs of an attack, what’s going to happen to the dog, and what kind of treatment you’ll have to endure for your wounds. Next, your mind will probably travel to the topic of costs, and whether or not you’ll be held responsible for the medical bills from the attack. Fortunately, because of California’s strict liability law, the owner of the dog will likely be held liable for the attack.
Taking a Look At Strict Liability
The strict liability law is good news for dog bite victims, but owners of dogs who bite may not feel the same way. The strict liability law essentially holds the attacking dog’s owner responsible for the dog’s behavior. The dog’s owner cannot escape liability for the attack by claiming that he didn’t know the dog would bite, or that it has never attacked anyone before. Whether the dog has a history of aggression or not, the owner is responsible. The dog’s owner is responsible for all charges related to the bite, likely including medical bills and lost wages due to the injury. Even if owners do all that they can to restrain their dogs with leashes, fences, or gates, they are still negligent if their dogs attack.
A few exceptions to this law do exist, however. Trespassers who are attacked by dogs are not protected by the strict liability law, and neither are veterinarians who are injured while treating the dogs. Those who provoke dogs to act aggressively by hitting them or displaying other behaviors are not protected by this law and may not have rights to pursue legal action.
Dog Bite Victims Have Rights
While some dog bites are minor, others can be severe and life-changing. Along with the physical pain of the bite, you may also have to endure emotional pain, particularly if the bite creates a noticeable scar that alters your appearance. You don’t have to suffer in silence, however; you can hold the person responsible for your pain accountable for his dog’s actions. The attorneys of the Steinberg Injury Lawyers want to fight for your rights. Contact us today by calling 1-800-350-8888 to learn how.
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