- February 27, 2022
A person who has been injured by an animal (such as a dog attack) may be able to file a personal injury case in order to seek compensation for their injuries. In some cases, it might be possible to file a negligence action which would mean that you have to prove the owner was negligent in allowing the animal to cause injury to you.
In California, a dog bite case must be brought to court within two years after the date of the bite. This means that dog bite victims have two years from the date of the injury to file a civil lawsuit.
Similarly, someone who is injured by another person’s negligence may have up to three years to file their personal injury case.
Where can you file a dog bite case?
If possible, it is best to file your personal injury case in the county where the incident occurred. Filing with the proper court, unless you find yourself dissatisfied with the result of the case, you may hire an attorney after you have received notice that your case has been accepted by the court.
You cannot sue a dog owner for accidents that occur on its property unless it has been proven the animal has bitten others before. In this case, it is best to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance company or renter’s insurance if you were not on the dog owner’s property when the incident occurred.
What are my rights if I’ve been bitten or injured by a dog?
Dog bites are scary and it’s natural to want to understand what options you have for seeking compensation after the fact. Your first step should be to talk with a California personal injury attorney specializing in dog bite cases.
You can also contact the animal control department and report the incident. It may make sense to file a complaint with both parties.
What should you do if you’ve been bitten or injured by a dog?
Normally, the first step is to leave the area where the incident happened and get somewhere safe. Next, seek medical attention for your injuries as soon as possible.
You can also take photos of your injuries, including the dog’s teeth marks on your body. Make sure to keep a copy of all medical records you receive as a result of the attack, if possible. You will need them for court!
Once you’ve received treatment, contact an experienced California personal injury attorney who is familiar with dog bite cases in your area. You may also want to file a police report with the department where the incident occurred.
How long will it take for compensation?
This varies depending on several factors, including the severity of your injuries and how critical your treatment is. The person who causes you harm will be required to compensate you for all of your medical bills, any missed work, and any permanent scarring.
No one should live in constant fear of being attacked by an animal. If you have been injured by a dog, personal injury lawyers may be able to represent you and help you file a personal injury case against the owner of the animal. To find out more about personal injury cases involving a dog bite, contact Ravan Law for more information this type of claim today.
