If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog attack in San Diego, BD&J’s California personal injury attorneys can help you pursue compensation under the state’s strict liability laws. Our firm has recovered more than $3 billion* for injured clients, and we represent dog bite victims throughout San Diego County with free consultations, 24/7 availability, and no fees until your case resolves. Contact us today to speak with an experienced dog bite lawyer.
California Dog Bite Laws Protect Victims
California Civil Code Section 3342 establishes strict liability for dog owners, meaning you can hold an owner financially responsible for injuries their dog caused, even if the animal had no history of aggression. San Diego County Animal Services enforces local reporting and quarantine requirements that help document attacks and protect the public from dangerous animals.
Understanding Strict Liability in Dog Bite Cases
Under strict liability, you do not need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous or had bitten someone before. As long as you were lawfully on public or private property when the bite occurred, the owner is liable for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, regardless of whether they took precautions to restrain the dog.
When Negligence Claims Apply
In addition to strict liability for bites, you may have a negligence claim if an owner failed to properly control or secure their dog, or if injuries resulted from a dog knocking you down rather than biting. Property owners and landlords can also be held liable if they knew a tenant’s dog posed a danger and failed to take action.
Common Injuries from Dog Attacks
Dog bites frequently cause puncture wounds, lacerations, fractures, and soft tissue damage that require emergency treatment, stitches, or surgery. Victims also face a serious risk of infection, permanent scarring, nerve damage, and disfigurement that may require reconstructive procedures and long-term care.
Beyond physical injuries, dog attack victims, especially children, often experience anxiety, nightmares, post-traumatic stress, and a lasting fear of dogs that affects their daily life and requires counseling or therapy.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in San Diego
Take these steps immediately after a dog attack to protect your health and preserve your legal claim:
- Seek medical care right away. Even minor-looking bites can become infected or cause complications. Medical records from your first visit create documentation linking your injuries to the incident.
- Document the scene and injuries. Photograph your wounds, the location, and the dog if safe to do so. Collect contact information from witnesses and obtain the owner’s name, address, phone number, homeowner’s or renter’s insurance information, and the dog’s vaccination records.
- Report the bite to authorities. File a report with San Diego County Animal Services (619-767-2675) or local law enforcement to create an official record. Reporting helps protect others and establishes a paper trail that supports your claim.
How BD&J Represents Dog Bite Victims in San Diego
Our attorneys handle every aspect of your dog bite claim, from gathering medical records and interviewing witnesses to filing insurance claims and negotiating settlements. We work with you directly to build your case, keep you informed at each stage, and fight for maximum compensation while you focus on recovery. Call us anytime at BD&J’s contact line. We’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
We operate on a contingency-fee basis, which means you pay no attorney fees until your case resolves. We also advance all case costs, so there are zero upfront expenses to pursue your claim.
Compensation Available in Dog Bite Cases
Dog bite victims can recover compensation for past and future medical treatment, hospital bills, surgery and rehabilitation costs, lost income and diminished earning capacity, scarring and disfigurement, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. We evaluate the full scope of your injuries, including long-term impacts on your physical health, mental wellbeing, and quality of life, to pursue fair compensation.
California’s statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence, secure witness statements, and protect your right to compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a dog bite lawyer?
BD&J works on contingency, so you pay no attorney fees unless we win your case. We cover investigation and filing costs upfront. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case at no cost.
Can I file a claim if the dog never bit anyone before?
Yes. California’s strict liability statute holds owners responsible even when a dog has no prior attack history.
What if the owner says I provoked the dog?
Owners and insurers often try to shift blame. We gather witness statements, photos, and other evidence to counter these defenses and prove your case.
Do I need to report the bite to San Diego animal control?
Reporting to San Diego County Animal Services creates an official record, helps protect the community, and strengthens your claim with documented evidence.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
You generally have two years from the injury date to file suit in California. Some exceptions apply, so contact an attorney promptly.
Schedule Your Free Case Evaluation
If you’ve been injured by a dog in San Diego, contact BD&J for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve, with no fees until your case resolves
