Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Los Angeles, seek medical attention right away, even for minor wounds. Then, report the incident to Los Angeles Animal Services and gather the dog owner’s contact information. Contact a Los Angeles dog bite attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and begin building your claim.

Under California’s strict liability law, dog owners are generally responsible for bites or attacks that occur in public or while the victim is lawfully on private property. This applies even if the dog has never shown aggression before. A Los Angeles dog bite lawyer can help you determine liability and pursue compensation.

The value of your case depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma. Novik Law Group’s Los Angeles dog bite attorneys can provide a free case evaluation to estimate your potential compensation.

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims — including dog bites — is two years from the date of the incident. It’s best to contact a Los Angeles dog bite attorney as soon as possible to ensure your case is filed within the legal deadline.

Yes. California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you may still recover compensation even if you were partially responsible, though your award may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Your Los Angeles dog bite attorney will help you understand how this applies to your case.

Yes. Reporting the incident helps document the event, ensures proper investigation, and prevents future attacks. Your attorney can guide you through the process and assist in collecting necessary evidence.

It is incredibly common for dog attacks to involve a pet owned by someone the victim knows. Many people hesitate to contact a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer because they do not want to cause financial hardship for a neighbor, friend, or relative. However, in the vast majority of cases, compensation is paid out through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, rather than directly from their personal bank account. An experienced attorney can help you secure the funds you need for your medical bills without destroying your personal relationships.

It is rarely in your best interest to accept a fast settlement without first consulting a Los Angeles dog bite attorney. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts and may offer a sum that barely covers your initial emergency room visit. A dedicated lawyer will account for all current and future expenses—including reconstructive surgeries, physical therapy, and counseling for emotional trauma like PTSD—ensuring you are not left paying out-of-pocket down the line.

Filing a civil claim for compensation is a separate process from animal control investigations. The primary goal of a dog bite lawyer is to secure financial recovery for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. While Los Angeles Animal Services may conduct an investigation to ensure public safety, simply hiring an attorney to file a personal injury claim against the owner’s insurance policy does not automatically mean the animal will be euthanized.

Yes. Children are disproportionately at risk for dog attacks and often suffer severe physical and emotional trauma. Because a child’s body is still growing, injuries like deep tissue damage, broken bones, and facial scarring can require multiple reconstructive surgeries over several years. Furthermore, children are highly susceptible to developing severe anxiety or a lifelong fear of dogs after an incident. A compassionate attorney will fight to ensure your child receives a settlement that covers their long-term medical care, psychological counseling, and future well-being.