California Dog Bite Laws and Personal Injury Cases

Even the tamest and sweetest of dogs can turn defensive at the drop of a hat. If that animal views itself or its master as being in danger, it may react in a dangerous way. Victims of dog bites may receive some compensation under California law, but the law in the state offers some protection for the animal's owner too.

 

Does Your Case Fall Within the Statute of Limitations?

California has a statute of limitations in place for all cases relating to personal injuries. If you want to press charges or file a lawsuit against a dog owner, you must contact an attorney as soon as possible after the injury. The state’s statute of limitations dictates that you must file your lawsuit within two years of the date that you were bitten by a dog.

Proving Your Case

The responsibility of proving you have a personal injury case falls on the shoulders of both you and your attorney. You must show that you did not break any law at the time of the incident. If the court determines that you trespassed on the property, you may not have a case.

The court will also want to know whether you provoked the dog in any way or if you knew the dog was a threat. Your attorney can gather the proper evidence to show that you deserve compensation for the injuries you received because of a dog.