Are you in need of a Encinitas dog bite lawyer?
Dogs in Encinitas, California cause serious injuries to people every year when they bite. People who are injured in dog attacks may be able to recover damages from the dog owners by filing dog bite claims. In order to maximize your chances of recovery, it is important for you to meet with one of our experienced dog bite attorneys in Encinitas. We have the legal skill and knowledge that are necessary to help our clients who have been injured in dog attacks.
How often do dog bite injuries happen?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that as many as 4.5 million Americans are injured in dog bite attacks every year. Approximately 20 percent of the people who are bitten by dogs are forced to get medical treatment for their injuries. More than 50 percent of the people who are bitten by dogs and who require treatment are children.
How to determine if a dog bite qualifies for a lawsuit
Dog bite claims are types of personal injury cases. In California, the law provides for the strict liability of dog owners when their dogs bite others. Dog bites may qualify as the basis of lawsuits when they happen while the victims are in public places or when they are legally located on the property of others. People are considered to be legally present on private property when they are there as invited guests or when they are there for legitimate business reasons. There is an exception to the strict liability dog bite statute, however. If you are bitten by a police dog during the course of the police doing their jobs, you will not be able to recover damages.
Types of injuries that commonly result from dog bites
Dog bites may result in a number of common types of injuries, including the following:
• Puncture wounds
• Blood loss
• Lacerations
• Fractures
• Infections
• PTSD
• Nerve damage
• Death
Who typically suffers the most from dog bite injuries?
People of all ages may be attacked by dogs. However, young children and senior citizens are the likeliest groups to suffer the most severe injuries when they are bitten by dogs. Children are often attacked when they are engaged in normal activities. In many cases, the dogs that attack children are familiar to them. Senior citizens are the second most likely to suffer serious injuries in dog attacks.
What to do if you have been attacked by a dog
If you are bitten by a dog, you should call 911. Take pictures of the dog and of the scene if you can, and try to get the name and contact information of the owner and of any witnesses. After you have told the police what happened, get medical treatment. Finally, contact an experienced lawyer after you have received treatment for your injuries.
When to contact an Encinitas dog bite lawyer
Under California law, you have two years from the date that you were injured in a dog attack to file a lawsuit. It is best to speak to an attorney as soon as possible after the attack. Contact our office today to learn more about the rights that you might have.
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