Every state has their own laws that govern dog bites and dog bite victims. In the state of California, renter’s insurance would generally cover a dog bite case. However, most renters do not purchase the additional coverage needed to protect themselves should their dog attack someone. Therefore, the liability can then trail back to the owner of the premises – the landlord.
How Long Should I Wait Before Filing A Dog Bite Accident Claim?
Statutes of limitations exist for both civil and criminal causes of action, and begin to run from the date of the injury, or the date it was discovered, or the date on which it would have been discovered with reasonable efforts. Many statutes of limitations are actual legislative statutes, while others may come from judicial common law. In the state of California, the statute of limitations is two years, meaning a dog bite accident victim has two years to contact an attorney and file a claim.
As with all personal injury cases, the sooner you contact an attorney the better. When you contact an attorney, you get a head start on forming a strong personal injury case that demonstrates the negligence of your landlord. For example maybe your landlord left their dog unleashed or otherwise in a state that makes the dog more likely to attack a renter.
If it can be proven that your landlord acted recklessly, negligently, or otherwise without a reasonable duty of care, you can file a dog bite claim against them in an attempt to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, or even pain and suffering following the dog bite.
What Is Dog Bite Statute?
California is a “strict liability” state regarding dog bites. According to California’s strict liability laws for dog bites, the owner of any dog that bites a victim is liable for damages if the damages were directly caused as a result of the dog’s bite, and the bite occurred on the person’s personal property. In this case, this would mean a landlord can in fact be held liable for the bite if it occurred on a property that they owned.
California dog bite statute only applies if the bite itself caused the dog injuries. For example, if a dog jumps up on a victim, scratches them and causes them wounds, this is not treated the same as if the dog physically did bite the victim. If this does happen, however, your landlord may still be held liable for certain damages if they failed to act reasonably to protect others or otherwise contributed to the dog’s ability to attack someone.
What Kind Of Compensation Can I Receive If My Landlord’s Dog Bit Me?
If you have suffered an injury because of a dog bite, you may be eligible for compensation for a variety of damages. However, it is important that you team up with a lawyer because you will need to be able to prove a few things first. You must be able to prove that the dog’s bite directly caused your injuries. You also need to be able to prove that the dog bite happened on your landlord’s personal property.
If you and your personal injury attorney are able to prove that your landlord is liable, you can be compensated for your injuries. Medical bill compensation can cover the cost of doctor’s visits, co-pays, prescription medication, and long-term rehabilitative care such as physical or occupational therapy – as long as they are related directly to the accident you suffered.
If you have had to miss time at work to nurse your injuries, you can also seek compensation for your lost wages. Many dog bite accident victims in California have families to feed, and everyone suffers when a head of household is not able to attend work. Your lawyer will fight for your right to lost wage compensation so you can make up for the missed money in your paycheck.
In some cases, a dog bite or dog attack can be especially gruesome. When an unsuspecting victim gets attacked by a scary dog and suffers bad injuries, that victim may have more trouble than just healing. Some dog bite accident victims suffer post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or depression following a serious attack. If you or a loved one have suffered an especially debilitating injury such as this, talk to a lawyer immediately. You may be able to receive compensation for your pain and suffering as well.
Contact A Riverside, California Personal Injury Lawyer If You Were Bit By Your Landlord’s Dog
If you or a loved one have suffered a dog bite from your landlord’s dog, remember that you have rights. You shouldn’t have to suffer because of someone else’s negligence. It is understandable that you may feel stuck in this situation, especially since you are under contract with your landlord and pay them rent. But it’s important to know you have every right to seek legal help, and an attorney can help demonstrate your landlord’s negligence so you can get the help you need.
Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with The Accident Network Law Group today to get started building your personal injury case. You shouldn’t have to suffer alone, especially while nursing injuries from the dog bite attack.
Call The Accident Network Law Group today at (951) 291-0976 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a dog bite lawyer in Riverside, California. Remember: your consultation is free of charge, and you pay no fees unless we win your case.