A dog bite can happen in a heartbeat – a neighbor’s pet, a dog at the park, a friend’s animal that had never shown aggression before. The injuries, especially to children, can be serious and lasting. The good news is that California law strongly protects bite victims.
Here is how California’s dog-bite law works, and what victims can recover.
California Is a “Strict Liability” State
Many states follow a “one bite” rule that gives an owner a pass the first time their dog bites. California does not. Under the state’s strict-liability dog-bite law, a dog’s owner is generally responsible for a bite even if the dog had never bitten anyone before and the owner had no reason to expect it. In most cases, the victim does not have to prove the owner did anything careless – only that the bite happened.
When the Law Applies
The rule generally covers bites that occur in a public place or while the victim is lawfully on private property – including, for example, a mail carrier making deliveries or a guest who was invited in. There are limits (trespassers and certain situations may be treated differently), which is one reason it helps to have the specific facts reviewed.
What Victims Can Recover
Dog-bite injuries often involve far more than the initial wound. Compensation can include:
- Medical treatment, including surgery and reconstructive care
- Scarring and disfigurement, which can be permanent
- Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma – often significant for children
- Lost income while recovering
In many cases, these claims are paid through the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance rather than out of the owner’s pocket – which is one reason pursuing a claim need not mean pitting neighbor against neighbor.
A serious bite deserves to be taken seriously. If you or your child was injured by a dog in California, Ellin Mardirosian Law offers a free consultation to explain your rights and pursue fair compensation.
Helpful Resources & Links
Practice Areas – Ellin Mardirosian Law
Website by Inspirovate Creatives
California Legislative Information (Civil Code § 3342)
Free consultation with Ellin Mardirosian Law – call (747) 310-5200. Representing accident and injury victims across California and Nevada. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Armenian.
Disclaimer: This article is general information about California (and, where noted, Nevada) law, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different – for guidance on your situation, speak with a licensed attorney.
