Dog Bite Lawyer In Pasadena

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite incident, Fiore Legal is here to help. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys have the expertise to pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation.

Fiore Legal: Advocating for Dog Bite Victims' Rights

Thousands of animal attacks and dog bites are reported annually across California. While some injuries are minor, others lead to severe pain, disfigurement, or lasting disabilities. In Pasadena, dog bite cases fall under strict liability, which means your compensation can be reduced if you are found to be partly responsible for the incident. Our experienced dog bite attorneys in Pasadena can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the maximum compensation possible.

Understanding California’s Dog Bite Laws

In many states, dog bite victims must prove that the dog’s owner was aware of their pet’s aggressive tendencies. However, California follows a strict liability rule for dog bite cases, meaning victims don’t need to show that the owner had prior knowledge of aggression. Certain conditions must be met to strengthen a claim for damages. For example:

You must have been lawfully on the property, not trespassing, at the time of the incident
Anyone responsible for the dog’s care, not just the owner, can be held liable for negligence
Kennel workers and veterinarians assume the risk of dog bites as part of their work and cannot sue under strict liability
Liability may not apply if the victim provoked, harassed, or annoyed the animal before the bite

Types of Damages Available

In Pasadena, dog bite victims may be eligible for both economic and non-economic damages, such as:

Lost wages and future earning potential
Medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and tests
Costs for rehabilitation, physical therapy, and prosthetic devices
Long-term care needs
Pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and psychological effects from disfigurement
Reduced enjoyment of life and difficulty with daily tasks

a dog that is barking and snarling on a street

Liability for Dog Bites in California

Dog owners are typically responsible for injuries, property damage, or fatalities caused by their dogs. A ‘dog owner’ can include anyone harboring or controlling the dog, such as family members or dog walkers, who may also be held liable.

If a minor owns the dog, their parents may face vicarious liability. Additionally, landlords who are aware of a tenant’s dangerous dog may be liable for failing to prevent foreseeable attacks.

Who Covers the Costs After a Dog Bite in California?

Many dog bite victims hesitate to pursue legal action, fearing it might cause financial strain for the dog owner, especially if they’re a friend or family member. However, in most cases, the pet owner’s insurance will handle the claim.

Homeowners’ insurance often covers dog bite injuries on the owner’s property, while auto insurance may cover incidents occurring in a vehicle. Some owners also carry specialized insurance for dog attacks, which would cover these claims as well.

Pasadena’s Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims

In California, you typically have two years from the date of a dog attack to file a claim against the responsible party. If you were under 18 at the time, you may have until your 20th birthday to pursue a claim. Acting swiftly is essential to preserve your right to seek compensation.

Dependable and Skilled Dog Bite Injury Attorneys Ready to Stand by Your Side

At Fiore Legal, our seasoned dog bite lawyers are committed to helping you seek compensation by holding the responsible party accountable. Rely on our expertise, resources, and determination to build a strong case on your behalf and support you through this challenging time. Schedule a free, confidential consultation today by calling 800-440-4157 or reaching out to us online.

Mauro Fiore Jr. with Fiore Legal Injury Attorneys sitting with a client looking at a laptop together