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Dog bites can result in serious injuries and emotional trauma for victims. If you've been bitten by a dog in California, it's crucial to understand the legal implications and determine who may be held responsible for your injuries. Let’s take a look at some of the factors that influence liability in California dog bite cases. 

California's Strict Liability Law for Dog Bites 

California has a strict liability law when it comes to dog bites, which means that dog owners are typically held responsible for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or previous incidents. This is codified under California Civil Code Section 3342, commonly known as the "dog bite statute." 

Under this law, dog owners are liable for damages resulting from a dog bite if: 

• The victim was bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the dog owner. 
• The victim did not provoke the dog or contribute to the incident in any way. 

Potential Defendants in Dog Bite Cases 

While the dog owner is usually the primary defendant in a dog bite case, there are circumstances where other parties may also be held liable for the victim's injuries: 

Property Owners or Landlords 

If a dog bite occurs on rented property, the landlord or property owner may be held liable if they were aware of the dog's dangerous tendencies and failed to take appropriate action to prevent foreseeable harm. 

Caretakers or Keepers 

Individuals who are responsible for the care and supervision of a dog, such as dog walkers, pet sitters, or doggy daycare providers, may also be held liable for injuries caused by the dog under their care. 

Negligent Third Parties 

In some cases, third parties such as property managers, security companies, or construction workers may be held liable if their negligence contributed to the dog bite incident, such as by leaving a gate open or failing to secure a construction site. 

Defenses Against Dog Bite Claims 

While California's strict liability law for dog bites places significant responsibility on dog owners, there are defenses that may be raised to challenge liability or reduce the amount of compensation awarded to the victim. Common defenses include: 

Provocation: If the victim provoked the dog or engaged in behavior that incited the attack, the dog owner may argue that the victim's actions contributed to the incident. 

Trespassing: If the victim was unlawfully on the dog owner's property at the time of the bite, the owner may argue that they are not liable under the dog bite statute. 

Seeking Legal Counsel for Dog Bite Cases 

If you've been bitten by a dog in California, it's important to seek legal counsel from an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in dog bite cases. An attorney can assess the circumstances of your case, gather evidence to support your claim, and advocate on your behalf to pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages. 

Get in Touch with a Dog Bite Lawyer in California 

Navigating liability in California dog bite cases requires a thorough understanding of the state's strict liability law and the factors that influence responsibility. By working with a knowledgeable attorney and understanding your legal rights, you can pursue fair compensation for your injuries and hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence or misconduct involving dog bites. 

At Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, we are prepared to guide you through the legal complexities of your dog bite claim. Contact us at 1-800-GO-HARRIS or visiting our contact page.