A dog bite can change a person’s life in seconds. Beyond the immediate pain, victims may face infections, nerve damage, permanent scarring, and emotional trauma—especially when the victim is a child. Many people also hesitate to take action because the dog belongs to a friend, neighbor, or family member. But medical bills and long-term treatment costs add up quickly, and California law provides strong protections for bite victims.
At Pilavjian Law, we help dog bite and animal attack victims pursue compensation while handling the process with care, professionalism, and respect for the circumstances.
California’s Dog Bite Law: Strict Liability Explained
California is a strict liability state for dog bites. In most cases, this means a dog owner is legally responsible if:
- Their dog bites someone
- The bite occurs in a public place or while the victim is lawfully on private property
- The victim did not provoke the dog in a way that would create a legal defense
Unlike some states, California generally does not require a victim to prove the dog had a prior history of aggression. The focus is on what happened and whether the victim was lawfully present.
This strict liability rule is designed to protect victims and make it easier to recover compensation after a bite.
What If the Bite Happened at Someone’s Home?
Many dog bites occur in familiar settings—during social visits, at a neighbor’s home, or while a child is playing nearby. People worry that filing a claim will “ruin” relationships, but in many cases, compensation comes from insurance coverage rather than directly from the dog owner.
Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance may cover dog bite injuries. A claim can help pay for:
- Emergency care and follow-up treatment
- Plastic surgery or scar revision
- Therapy for trauma or anxiety
- Lost wages if the victim cannot work
At Pilavjian Law, we can help identify available insurance coverage and pursue a claim while keeping the process as straightforward as possible.
Common Injuries in Dog Bite Cases
Dog bites can cause much more than puncture wounds. Depending on the severity, victims may suffer:
- Deep lacerations requiring stitches
- Infections
- Nerve damage
- Tendon or muscle injury
- Facial injuries and permanent scarring
Children are especially vulnerable because bites often target the face and head due to their height and proximity to animals.
In more serious cases, dog attacks can involve multiple bites or knockdowns that lead to fractures or head injuries.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
After a dog bite, your first priority should be medical care. Then, to protect both your health and any future claim:
- Document the injury with photos
- Get contact information for the dog owner and any witnesses
- Report the bite to local animal control if appropriate
- Keep records of medical visits and treatment recommendations
Do not assume the wound is minor. Even small bites can become infected or lead to complications.
Defenses Owners and Insurers May Raise
Even with strict liability, dog owners and insurers may attempt to reduce or deny claims by arguing:
- The victim was trespassing
- The victim provoked the dog
- The injury was not as severe as claimed
- Treatment was unnecessary or excessive
This is why documentation matters. Medical records, photographs, and witness statements can help establish the seriousness of the injury and the impact on daily life.
Compensation Beyond Medical Bills
Dog bite victims may recover damages for more than out-of-pocket costs. Compensation may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and anxiety
- Disfigurement or permanent scarring
- Loss of enjoyment of life
For children, emotional trauma can be significant, and scarring may require ongoing treatment as they grow.
Get Help Protecting Your Rights
Dog bite claims can be time-sensitive, and early action helps preserve evidence and coverage information. If you or your child has been bitten, you deserve answers and support—without being pressured to accept an unfair settlement.
Contact Pilavjian Law at (818) 380-3021 for a no-obligation consultation. We’ll review what happened, explain how California’s strict liability law applies, and pursue the compensation you need for treatment, recovery, and peace of mind.