Taking a walk on local Los Angeles streets, whether you’re walking your pet, going for a jog, or taking in some sun, shouldn’t put you at risk for a dog bite attack.
Unfortunately, negligent owners can often leave their dogs unleashed and free to roam the streets, which, in the case of a sudden moment of aggression, can lead to serious consequences for other unsuspecting bystanders or their own leashed pets.
If you or a loved one were involved in a dog bite incident in Los Angeles, the compassionate attorneys from BD&J are ready to fight on your behalf. You have the legal right to compensation for damages after a dog bite injury.
Key Takeaways
- California, specifically LA County, has a high concentration of dog owners, which can lead to serious dog bite incidents that lead to hospitalizations
- Dog bite incidents can often occur due to owner negligence, such as pet owners failing to keep their dogs leashed, neglecting to fix gates or fences leading to their dogs escaping the property, and other factors
- Injuries from dog bite incidents can include painful bite wounds, but can also include broken bones, scarring, and emotional trauma
- Los Angeles dog bite lawyers from BD&J can help you hold negligent or reckless pet owners legally accountable after a dog bite incident
Dog Bite Fast Stats
Dogs are friendly and sociable pets, but one with a dominant or aggressive nature can spell trouble for other pet owners and bystanders.
Dog bite stats throughout California and Los Angeles show:
- In 2023, California recorded over 54,600 emergency department visits from dog bites (DogsBite.org)
- California has the highest number of dog bite insurance claims in the nation, with 2,830 claims filed in 2025 (Insurance Information Institute)
- The United States Postal Service has named Los Angeles as the top city for dog attacks on postal workers for 3 years in a row (KTLA 5)
- In 2025, the USPS recorded 70 dog attacks on postal workers in Los Angeles (KTLA5)
Why do Dog Bites Happen in Los Angeles?
Dog bite attacks can often happen in Los Angeles due to:
Unleashed Dogs
Most pet owners know the frustration of seeing unleashed dogs roaming streets or parks, even though they take the proper steps to keep their pets leashed and restrained in case of contact with other pedestrians or pets.
Unleashed dogs are unrestrained and can simply attack your pet or yourself in seconds. This is why LA County enforces a strict leash law for dog owners.
Overstimulated Dogs
Moments of chaotic playtime or wandering into a new environment can make some dogs overstimulated, leading to an aggressive or fearful response through biting.
Owner Negligence
Dog bite attacks are most often caused by a negligent or reckless dog owner who lets their dog roam unleashed or who knows a dog has previously exhibited aggressive or territorial behavior but doesn’t take appropriate measures, such as muzzle use or additional training.
Owner negligence can even include pet owners failing to keep fencing around their property maintained to keep the dog on their property.
Typical Dog Bite Injuries
Some common injuries from a dog bite attack are:
- Puncture wounds
- Lacerations
- Broken bones and fractures
- Infections
- Catastrophic injuries, like disfigurement or amputation
Did a dog bite incident leave you with serious physical and mental trauma? Call BD&J dog bite attorneys in Los Angeles or complete our form to schedule a consultation.
Are There Any Laws on Dog Bite Accidents?
Absolutely:
- California Civil Code 3342 states that the owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness.
- The Leash Law, as enforced by Los Angeles County, requires dogs to be restrained by a substantial leash not exceeding 6 feet and to be controlled by a competent person when off the owner’s property.
- California Food and Agricultural Code 31621 highlights that an administrative hearing procedure may be held in a Superior County court if a dog is deemed to be vicious or potentially dangerous, even if the dog hasn’t bitten anyone.
When Do I Need a Los Angeles Dog Bite Lawyer?
How do you know when it’s time to speak to a dog bite attorney in Los Angeles for your injuries? If:
- The dog owner denies liability for the dog bite attack
- The dog owner’s insurance lowballs or denies your claim
- A child was involved in the dog bite incident (especially since kids 1-5 are the highest risk group for these attacks, according to CHOC data)
- The medical expenses associated with your dog bite injuries have gotten out of hand, and you don’t have the financial means to pay for them
- You're unable to work and support your household after a dog bite injury
A dog bite attorney from the BD&J team is absolutely the right person to call! Our attorneys will work with you to file a claim, collect evidence, negotiate a fair settlement, and serve as the communication bridge between you and other parties.
Connect with us 24/7 by calling 855-906-3699 or by filling out our online form.
Compensation You Can Recover with Dog Bite Incident Attorneys in Los Angeles
Dog bite accidents can be painful, traumatic, and expensive. Not only are you dealing with treating a serious dog bite, but you must now also figure out preventative rabies treatments, possible surgeries, and how to support loved ones while out of work. Compensation from a personal injury claim for a dog bite incident can cover:
Economic Damages
- Current and future medical expenses
- Loss of income
- Physical rehabilitation
- Property damage (Such as if a dog broke your fence to enter your property and attack)
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Mental trauma
- Decreased quality of life (In the event of disfigurement, amputations, or similar)
- Punitive damages (Awarded if this has been a repeat violation of that dog owner, and to prevent similar incidents from occurring again)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Could Be Liable for My Dog Bite Injuries?
Dog owners are strictly liable for any dog bite injuries that come from their dogs, even if the pet had shown no previous signs of aggression.
In some cases, a temporary handler like a dog walker or pet sitter, could be held liable if the dog in their care bit another person. Talking to a dog bite attorney can help you learn more about liability.
How Long Do I Have to Present a Personal Injury Claim?
You have 2 years to file a personal injury claim after a dog bite attack. Beat the clock and contact BD&J now!
What Are the Most Common Dog Breeds Involved in Dog Bite Incidents?
It's important to remember that all dogs, big or small, can be inclined to bite a person. However, some of the most common dog breeds involved in dog bite incidents include pit bulls, rottweilers, German shepherds, and chihuahuas.
What Do I Do After a Dog Attack?
Get the dog owner info, report the attack to animal control, and seek medical treatment immediately. After your injuries have been documented, sit down with an LA dog bite lawyer to learn about your legal options.
What if the Other Dog Hurt My Dog?
It can be especially traumatizing when your own dog is hurt by an uncontrolled and aggressive dog. However, filing a legal claim is possible, with the consideration that your dog is recognized as your property.
What if My Dog Bite Got Infected Days After an Attack?
The hidden danger of dog bites is that they can sometimes lead to bacterial infections, which can further lead to tissue damage, sepsis, tetanus, or rabies. If your dog bite becomes infected, seek the appropriate medical treatments as soon as possible, then talk with an attorney about filing a claim.
Why Should I Work with BD&J?
BD&J is a trusted personal injury law firm that has been tirelessly fighting for the rights of injured California and Los Angeles residents since our establishment in 2007. With more than $3 billion* in compensation recovered for clients, you can be reassured your legal case is in the right expert hands.
Do I Have to Pay Upfront to Work with BD&J?
Not at all! We work on a contingency fee basis, which means that we advance case costs to clients and obtain final attorney fees from the settlement after a case has been resolved. This means less financial stress for you, and no fees until we win*.
Follow BD&J on Instagram to stay informed on dog bite cases and regulations, as well as how our law firm can help your claim.
How To Spot an Aggressive Dog
Not every dog that bites will be easy to single out, but spotting and avoiding an aggressive dog is still recommended for matters of safety.
Look for signs of an aggressive dog, such as:
- Keeping an eye on their posture. – A stiff or rigid posture will usually mean the dog is feeling defensive, which means you’ll want to avoid being too close to them.
- Looking at the fur on their backs. – Raised fur (also known as hackles) on a dog’s back is a big indicator that they’re on the defensive and may lash out aggressively.
- Checking how their ears are positioned. – A dog with its ears pinned back or facing forward stiffly is an indicator they are on guard and may attack.
After a dog bite attack from an aggressive dog, talking with a dog bite attorney can allow you to explore legal options for fair compensation.
Dedicated Dog Bite Attorneys in Los Angeles Who Fight for You and Your Loved Ones
Dogs are lovable and often friendly creatures, but a moment of aggression and defensiveness can lead to painful injuries and costly medical bills for other vulnerable people and their own pets.
Hold negligent owners and other involved parties in a personal injury lawsuit. BD&J is the premier Los Angeles personal injury law firm you can call to get started on the legal path to justice.
Our team is waiting to work with you. Complete our online form or call us today!
