Have you been injured in a dog bite attack in Del Mar?
Del Mar is renowned for being a pet-friendly community. From the off-leash hours at North Beach (Dog Beach) to the busy sidewalks of Camino Del Mar, dogs are a constant presence in our coastal lifestyle. However, this proximity increases the risk of dangerous encounters.
A dog attack is a terrifying event that can leave victims with severe physical scarring, emotional PTSD, and a mountain of unexpected debt. You do not have to navigate the aftermath alone. At San Diego Personal Injury Attorneys, we recognize the profound disruption a dog bite causes to your life. Our dedicated North County legal team has a proven history of holding negligent owners accountable and securing the financial recovery you need to heal.
Over $500,000,000 Won Over 25 years of experience
Here's what you need to know about dog bite injuries in California
Many victims hesitate to take legal action because they believe they must prove the dog had a history of aggression or that the owner was "negligent." This is a common misconception.
California is a "Strict Liability" State Under California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are held strictly liable for damages if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully in a private place.
This means:
You do not need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
You do not need to prove the owner was negligent (e.g., let the dog off-leash).
The "One Bite Rule" (which allows a free pass for the first bite) does not apply in California.
Whether the attack happened at a local park, a neighbor's home, or a public street, the owner is generally financially responsible for your injuries.
The Reality of Animal Attacks
Despite domestication, dogs remain animals with predatory instincts. Even a beloved family pet can snap due to fear, pain, or territorial aggression. In Del Mar, where residents and tourists mingle frequently with pets, the risk is real.
Why You Need a Del Mar Dog Bite LawyerWhile the law is on your side, insurance companies are not. Del Mar homeowners often carry high-value insurance policies, and carriers will fight aggressively to protect those assets. They may attempt to:
Claim you "provoked" the dog.
Downplay the severity of your injuries.
Offer a "lowball" quick settlement that fails to cover future medical needs.
A specialized Del Mar dog bite attorney acts as your shield, handling all communication with the insurers and ensuring your rights are protected.
Owner Responsibility and Negligence
Beyond strict liability for bites, owners have a duty to prevent their animals from causing other types of harm (such as knocking over a pedestrian or cyclist). Negligence in Del Mar often looks like:
Violating local leash laws at Powerhouse or Seagrove Park.
Failing to secure gates or fences, allowing a dog to roam the neighborhood.
Losing control of a dog during interaction with other pets or children.
If a lack of control led to your injury, we will meticulously investigate the incident to establish fault.
Attorney Deon Goldschmidt
With years of experience, Deon Goldschmidt, Esq., has been practicing personal injury law for over 2 decades. He has successfully helped hundreds of accident victims claim damages from their injuries. In addition, Mr. Goldschmidt has gained extensive experience in the field of medical malpractice.
The True Cost of a Dog Bite
A dog attack is rarely "just a scratch." The jaws of a dog can exert immense pressure, causing crushing injuries, while their teeth can cause deep lacerations prone to infection. We help clients recover compensation for:
Medical Expenses: ER visits, stitches, antibiotics, and rabies shots.
Reconstructive Surgery: Plastic surgery to repair facial disfigurement or reduce scarring.
Psychological Trauma: Therapy for PTSD, anxiety, and fear of dogs (cynophobia), which is common in children.
Lost Income: Wages lost during recovery or due to permanent disability.
Nerve Damage: Long-term loss of sensation or mobility in hands and limbs.
We Are Ready to Fight for You
Recovering from an attack is difficult enough without the stress of legal battles. Our team has over three decades of experience navigating the complexities of California dog bite law.
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we win your case.
Don't let an insurance company dictate your recovery. Contact the premier Del Mar Dog Bite Lawyers today. Let us help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve so you can move forward with your life.