Dog Bites

Pet owners are responsible for the actions of their pets.  When a pet owner fails to keep their pet on a leash or confined to their property, then they may be responsible if their pet attacks and causes injuries to another person.  Additionally, if a pet owner fails to properly train or care for their pet, making it more prone to violent attacks, then they may also be liable if their pet causes injuries to another person.  The owner of a dog that has already attacked or bitten another person may also be “strictly liable” for a subsequent attack on another person.  The owner of an animal with vicious propensities, such as a dog trained to fight , or an exotic animal, such as a lion, is also strictly liable for any attack on a person.  “Strict liability” means that the owner’s liability does not depend on actual negligence or an intent to harm, but rather is based on the breach of an absolute duty to ensure that their animal is safe. Dog bites and other animal attacks can be especially brutal and leave the victim with permanent injuries, such as scars, or permanent emotional injuries, such as fear of animals, and even post-traumatic stress disorder.  In California, a judge can order a “Dangerous Dog Hearing” even before trial to make sure that the animal does not injure another person. Children are especially susceptible to dog and animal attacks.  However, a child is only held to the standard of reasonable child, and not required to act like an adult when encountering a dog or other animal.  An animal attack claim can sometimes be difficult to navigate, and that is why it is important to contact a capable attorney to review the case.  Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.