Dog Bites in California

Californians love their dogs. This becomes even more apparent while walking around downtown San Diego or at one of the many dog friendly beaches in the area. For many, dogs are members of the family.

Dogs Behaving Badly
Just like their human counterparts, sometimes dogs behave badly. Dog bites are often the result of this bad behavior and can cause injuries or in extreme cases, death. In 2014, a local San Diego news station looked at data on injuries from dog bites in California and found there had been a significant increase in serious bites. A serious bite is one that impairs a person’s physical condition and requires sutures, surgery, or professional medical treatment.

While breeds such as pit bulls and German Shepherds appeared on a list of breeds that bit, other breeds such as Chihuahuas and Labrador retrievers were also present.

Local Statute
There is often no real explanation as to why a dog bites. It could be out of fear or as a result of being mishandled; but according to a San Diego county ordinance, all bites must be reported, and the offending dog could be quarantined for 10 days. In addition, if the dog bites someone else again within a four-year period, it will be classified as a “dangerous dog.”

Most people do not want to see a dog euthanized as a result of a bite, and owners often take precautions to avoid future injuries. Being proactive and addressing any issues may help an owner if a dog bite victim sues for negligence. Many states have “dog-bite” statutes that impose no fault liability on an owner of a dog that bites.

State Statutes
In California, an owner will be liable for any injuries caused by a dog bite while the person was in a public place or if he or she was lawfully on private property. This includes the owner’s home and means that if a dog bites a house guest he or she is liable for the injuries.

Contrary to popular belief, this does not apply to just a dog that has been called “vicious.” If an owner knows a dog is vicious and does not do anything about it, this may expose them to a negligence cause of action, but for the purpose of the statute, it does not matter if the dog is a backyard menace or the sweetest pooch on the block.

Cost to Homeowners

The cost of a dog bite injury to someone on a homeowner’s property may or may not be covered by insurance. Most insurance companies ask whether a homeowner has a dog and usually want to know about specific breeds that are often seen as having a more aggressive nature. In extreme cases where a dog may have caused a death, a homeowner may face both costly civil and criminal charges, depending on the circumstances.

Cost to Victims

For victims, the cost is often found in medical bills and surgery, but there can be long-term effects as well. Some victims find they become afraid of dogs and go out of their way to avoid being around them. In addition, there may be physical scars as a result of the injury.

If you have been the victim of a dog bite, it is important to contact your San Diego personal injury attorney immediately.