Getting bitten by a dog is scary—and it’s not just about the physical pain. Dog bites can lead to serious medical bills, time off work, and even emotional trauma that sticks around long after the wounds heal. The good news? In California, the law is on your side.
California uses what’s called a “strict liability” rule, which means that the dog owner is responsible for the bite—even if the dog had never acted aggressively before. If you were bitten in a public place or while lawfully on someone’s property, you may have a personal injury case. Not sure if your situation qualifies? Here’s what you need to know.
So What Can You Be Compensated For?
If you’ve been injured by a dog, you could get compensated for things like:
- Medical treatment (ER visits, stitches, surgery)
- Time off work and lost wages
- Pain and emotional stress
- Long-term scarring or disfigurement
- Ongoing therapy if the trauma affected your mental health
Some dog bite injuries require more than a quick visit to the doctor—they can involve plastic surgery, physical rehab, and even counseling for anxiety or PTSD. That’s why it’s important not to settle too quickly or assume the bite was “no big deal.” You deserve to be fully compensated for what you’ve gone through.
In many cases, a dog bite is just as impactful as other types of accidents, like a slip and fall. If you’ve ever had a fall due to a property hazard, you’ll want to understand how these claims work. The same legal protections often apply, especially when the injury happened because someone didn’t take proper safety measures.
What Should You Do After a Dog Bite?
Here’s a quick checklist:
- See a doctor right away—don’t wait, even for minor injuries.
- Get the dog owner’s info and check if the dog has been vaccinated.
- Take photos of your injuries and where the bite happened.
- Report the incident to your local animal control.
- Talk to a lawyer who understands California dog bite laws.
At Sedaghat Law Group, we know how overwhelming these cases can be—and we’re here to help. Call us at (877) 395-8640 for a free consultation. Let’s talk about your case and how we can fight to get you what you deserve.
