Burbank Dog Bite Lawyer

When a dog bite incident happens, it can be a traumatic experience that leads to serious physical injuries and emotional distress. You might have the added burden of mounting medical bills and potentially lost wages. Seeking the help of a Burbank Dog Bite Lawyer at Lerner Law Injury & Accident Firm can be crucial to securing the compensation you deserve.

Our experienced dog bite attorneys understand the complexities of California's dog bite laws. We are ready to advocate on your behalf. We guide you through the legal process, relieving your stress and helping you focus on recovery.

Learn more about how our Burbank dog bite attorneys can help you. Then, give us a call to schedule a free consultation.

Secure Legal Representation From a Burbank Dog Bite Lawyer for Your Case

We understand that no amount of money can undo the lasting trauma caused by a dog bite incident. Getting rightful compensation can go a long way in helping victims cope. This can alleviate medical expenses, lost income, and emotional distress.

By securing legal representation from our Burbank Dog Bite Lawyer, you entrust your case to our professionals. We prioritize your well-being and strive to seek the justice you deserve. Our commitment is to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your losses.

Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation

Your journey to justice begins with a comprehensive consultation and case evaluation. We listen to your story, determine the merits of your claim, and provide straightforward advice about the next steps. This evaluation allows us to understand the unique circumstances of your case. Then, we identify potential strategies to fight for your rights.

Gathering Evidence and Investigating the Incident

Our team takes a hands-on approach to investigating the incident. This involves reviewing medical reports, photographs, and circumstances of the attack. We might also visit the scene of the incident and interview witnesses to get a clear picture of what transpired. A thorough investigation strengthens your case and helps us develop an effective legal strategy.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be complex and overwhelming. As experienced Burbank dog bite lawyers, we handle negotiations on your behalf. We understand the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts. We counter these with compelling evidence and assertive negotiation. Our team always aims to secure a fair settlement for you.

Representing the Client in Court, if Necessary

While we aim to reach a fair settlement without the need for trial trial, we are prepared to advocate for you in court if necessary. Our Burbank dog bite lawyers have a solid track record of successful courtroom representation, ensuring your rights and interests are effectively represented before the jury and judge.

Dog Bite Laws in Burbank

In Burbank and throughout California, dog owners are held to a strict standard of liability for their pets' actions. According to California Civil Code Section 3342, a dog's owner is usually liable for damages when their dog bites someone. This is even if the dog has never bitten anyone before or the owner had no reason to believe the dog would act aggressively.

Our dog bite attorneys understand the ins and outs of these laws. We fight vigorously for dog bite victims. After seeking medical care, give our dog bite injury attorneys a call.

Common Causes of a Dog Attack in Burbank

Dog attacks can occur under various circumstances. This makes it crucial to be vigilant when interacting with dogs, even if they seem friendly. From poor pet supervision to inadequate training, the causes of dog attacks vary widely. Here are some of the common triggers:

• Unsupervised dogs: Often, dogs that are left unsupervised might feel threatened. This could lead to unexpected aggressive behaviors.
• Failure to leash the dog: Unleashed dogs may pose a significant risk, especially in public places, as they can quickly run up to people and attack.
• Poor training: Dogs that are not adequately trained can exhibit aggressive behavior, often leading to bites and attacks.
• Protection of territory or possessions: Dogs might attack when they feel their territory is threatened. They might also act to protect their possessions.
• Fear and anxiety: Just like humans, dogs can defensively react when they feel scared or anxious.
• Provocation: Accidental or intentional provocation can stimulate aggressive responses from dogs.

This information empowers individuals to approach dogs carefully, reducing the likelihood of an attack.

Most Common Injuries That Result From a Dog Bite Attack

Dog bites are not to be taken lightly, as they can lead to severe injuries requiring immediate medical attention. The type of injuries can range from minor to severe, each carrying its own set of complications. Here are some of the most common injuries resulting from a dog bite attack:

• Puncture Wounds: Even a tiny puncture from a dog's tooth can lead to serious infections if not treated properly.
• Lacerations and Tears: Dogs have powerful jaws that can cause significant skin and tissue damage.
• Nerve Damage: Severe bites may reach deep enough to damage nerves, potentially leading to long-term mobility issues.
• Scarring: Dog bites often result in scarring, leading to physical and emotional trauma.
• Fractures: In severe cases, the force exerted by a dog's bite can break bones.
• Psychological Trauma: Victims of dog bites often suffer from psychological trauma. This includes post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

By understanding the potential injuries resulting from a dog bite, individuals can better assess the severity of a bite and seek appropriate medical attention. This knowledge is essential to safeguarding personal health. It can also lay the groundwork for a potential legal case.

Building a Strong Long Beach Dog Bite Case

• Collecting Medical Records and Documenting Injuries: After a dog bite incident, promptly seek medical attention. Then, diligently document all injuries. This includes immediate injuries, as well as complications that arise over time. Medical records serve as objective proof of your injuries and the treatment received. These documents can be instrumental in demonstrating the severity of the attack. This also quantifies the financial burden incurred as a result of the dog bite.
• Gathering Witness Statements and Testimonies: Witness accounts can strengthen your dog bite case. Witnesses can provide a detailed description of the event and the circumstances surrounding it. Their testimonies can help validate your account of the incident. They can also corroborate key details and potentially attribute liability to the dog owner. It's crucial to gather these statements promptly while the incident is still fresh in their minds.
• Obtaining Veterinary Reports and Documentation: Securing veterinary reports and records is critical. These documents can provide essential information about the dog. Examples include its vaccination history and any prior aggressive behavior. A history of aggressive behavior can be used to demonstrate that the owner was aware of the risk their dog posed.
• Demonstrating Negligence or Owner Liability: This could involve showing that the owner failed to secure the dog, was aware of the dog's aggressive tendencies, or violated local dog control laws. Proving owner liability often requires a comprehensive understanding of local laws and careful analysis of the evidence, underscoring the value of having an experienced dog bite attorney on your side.

Dealing With Insurance Companies

While insurance companies have a legal duty to honor valid claims, their aim is to minimize payouts. Understanding your rights and navigating conversations with insurance adjusters to protect your interests is crucial. We at Lerner Law Injury & Accident Firm can help manage these communications to avoid jeopardizing your claim. When a dog bite occurs, seek medical care. Then, call us for a case consultation.

Establishing Liability for a Dog Bite in California

California operates under a strict liability statute for dog bites. This statute means that the dog owner is generally held responsible if their dog bites someone, regardless of whether the dog has shown any previous signs of aggression. However, as simple as this rule seems, establishing liability isn't always straightforward and can depend on several factors, including where the bite happened and whether the victim was lawfully present at the location. It would help if you had an experienced lawyer to fight for you.

The components necessary for establishing liability in a California dog bite case include demonstrating that the defendant owned the dog that bit you and that the bite occurred while you were in a public place or legally within a private setting (such as the dog owner's property).

Further, it must be shown that you sustained damages due to the dog bite. This might involve physical injuries, medical bills, lost wages, or mental anguish. Establishing these elements with clear, compelling evidence can ensure that you have a strong case against the dog owner.

Defenses and Challenges in Dog Bite Cases

Dog owners or their insurance companies may try to avoid liability by claiming defenses such as trespassing or provocation. They might argue that the victim was not legally on the property or that the victim provoked the dog, leading to the bite. Navigating these defenses requires a knowledgeable Burbank dog bite lawyer on your side.

Seeking Compensation for Your Burbank Dog Bite Injuries

You might pursue different types of compensation following a dog bite injury. A few forms of compensation for a dog bite claim include:

Medical Expenses and Ongoing Healthcare Costs

The costs of treating dog bite injuries can be substantial, especially if the injuries are severe. Victims may be entitled to compensation for hospital bills, medications, physical therapy, and other healthcare costs associated with the injury.

Lost Wages and Income Due to the Injury

If your injuries cause you to miss work or limit your ability to earn a living in the future, you may be entitled to recover lost wages and loss of earning capacity. This compensation aims to mitigate the financial impact of your injuries.

Pain and Suffering Experienced by the Victim

In addition to tangible costs, victims of dog bites may be compensated for physical pain and suffering. This accounts for the physical discomfort, loss of enjoyment of life, and other non-economic damages you have suffered due to the dog bite.

Emotional Distress and Psychological Damages

Dog bite incidents can leave victims with significant emotional trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), fear, anxiety, and depression. You may be entitled to compensation for these psychological damages.

Schedule an Initial Consultation With Our Burbank Dog Bite Lawyer at Lerner Law Injury & Accident Firm

Don't let a dog bite derail your life. At Lerner Law Injury & Accident Firm, our Burbank dog bite lawyers are here to fight for your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. We understand that even a tiny bite can lead to a severe injury. We can provide you with the representation you deserve.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you navigate this challenging time.