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A dog bite can be a terrifying and traumatic experience—often leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional scars, and steep medical bills. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in the state of California, it’s important to know that state law is on your side.
At The Law Office of Johann Hall, we help dog bite victims pursue the compensation they deserve and hold negligent pet owners accountable.
California Dog Bite Law: Strict Liability for Owners
California follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. That means a dog owner is automatically liable if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property—even if the dog has never bitten before.
Civil Code §3342 makes this clear:
“The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten... regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness.”
Key takeaways:
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Victims do not have to prove the dog had a history of aggression.
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Liability applies even if the bite happened on the owner’s property, as long as the victim was there lawfully.
Common Injuries from Dog Bites
Dog bite injuries can range from mild to life-altering. Common injuries include:
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Deep lacerations and puncture wounds
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Infections (such as rabies or cellulitis)
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Nerve and tendon damage
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Facial disfigurement
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Emotional trauma or PTSD
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Scarring, especially in children
Prompt medical attention is critical—not just for your health, but also to document injuries for your legal claim.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in California
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Seek Medical Treatment – Always go to the ER or urgent care to prevent infections and begin a paper trail.
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Report the Incident – File a report with local animal control or law enforcement.
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Identify the Dog Owner – Get their name, address, and insurance information if possible.
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Document Everything – Take photos of injuries, the scene, and any torn clothing.
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Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer – An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and pursue a claim for compensation.
What Compensation Can Dog Bite Victims Recover?
At The Law Office of Johann Hall, we fight for full compensation, including:
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Medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, physical therapy)
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Lost wages if you miss work
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Pain and suffering
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Emotional distress
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Scarring or disfigurement
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Future medical needs
If a dog owner acted recklessly—such as ignoring leash laws when the owner knew the dog had dangerous propensities—you may also be entitled to punitive damages.
Why Choose Johann Hall for Your Dog Bite Case?
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Decades of experience in California personal injury law
- Local knowledge of California courts
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Compassionate, client-focused representation
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No fees unless we win your case
Dog bite cases can be complex, especially if the dog owner denies responsibility or their insurance company pushes back. We handle the legal heavy lifting so you can focus on healing.
Contact The Law Office of Johann Hall Today
Don’t let a dog bite injury derail your life. Whether you were attacked in a park in California, a sidewalk, or even at a friend’s home, you may have a right to compensation.
