Lancaster Dog Bite Lawyer

If a dog has bitten you or a loved one, our experienced Lancaster dog bite lawyers are here to protect your rights and help you seek the compensation you need to recover.

In California, almost one in four households own a pet. Despite the strong bond between families and their four-legged friends, dog ownership is not all positive. Every year, over 4.5 million dog bites occur across the nation. These can have far-reaching consequences, affecting the victims’ physical and mental health. Tragically, between 2005 and 2019, 521 Americans lost their lives in incidents involving canines.

California’s dog bite laws grant you rights that can help you seek justice and compensation for your ordeal. This is where we come in.

Our skilled and empathetic dog bite injury attorneys understand the unique hurdles that dog bite victims face. We recognize the battle of proving your case, and we become your fierce advocates committed to safeguarding your rights.

Taking immediate action is crucial to achieving a favorable outcome in the aftermath of a dog bite or attack. Our dedicated team of dog bite lawyers works fast to collect evidence and strengthen your case, speaking with witnesses, liaising with law enforcement and animal control for reports, and reaching out to the insurance company to assess policy limits.

Do not delay. Get in touch with an injury attorney in Lancaster now and secure the compensation you deserve.

Dog Bite Injuries in Lancaster can Have Catastrophic Effects

The Los Angeles area, including Lancaster, leads the nation in dog bites and attacks. In fact, 2015 saw 74 attacks on postal workers alone, with even higher numbers for children and other adults.

Not only do dog bites result in physical pain, they can also involve feelings of terror, intense fear, anxiety and insecurity. The owner of the out-of-control dog should be held financially responsible for those physical and emotional scars.

Why Choose Us as Your Lancaster Dog Bite Lawyers

When it comes to legal matters involving dog bites in Lancaster, having the right legal representation is essential. Whether you’re facing a lawsuit over a dog-related injury or seeking compensation after being bitten by someone else’s dog, our team of experienced dog attack lawyers is here to guide you.

We understand the intricacies of California’s laws and can provide you with the necessary insights and defenses. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the right guidance and support throughout the legal process.

During our initial consultation, we’ll take the time to understand your concerns and the specifics of your case. We know that facing a claim or lawsuit can be overwhelming, and we’re here to address all your worries.

We’ll create a personalized strategy tailored to your situation, addressing potential impacts on your relationships, future, and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with medical treatment for scarring, orthopedic injuries, nerve damage, plastic surgery, or even psychological trauma, we’ll navigate these complexities with you.

At our firm, we prioritize people above all else. We’re dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for your welfare. This commitment is reflected in our client referrals—80% of the people we assist come from recommendations from satisfied clients. With a team of over 30 skilled professionals, we have the expertise needed to handle even the most complex cases. Over the years, we’ve secured more than $900 million in verdicts and settlements for our clients. Our pursuit of justice is unwavering, and we make sure you get what you deserve.

Choosing the right legal team can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Our proven track record, dedication to our clients, and extensive experience in dog bite cases make us the ideal partners to guide you through this challenging process. Your well-being and peace of mind are our top priorities, and we’re here to provide the support and representation you deserve.

Visit our FAQs page to learn more, or contact Kuzyk Law today to take the first step toward securing the justice and compensation you need.

“Closed case quick and fast. Very pleased with everyone.” – Charlotte R., Lancaster

Choose a Dog Bite Attorney with a Proven Track Record

When you’re backed by a stellar team of proven personal injury attorneys with more than four decades of experience, you get results. We have obtained over $1 billion in settlements in our vast history of connecting victims with the monetary payouts they deserve.

Who Will Provide For Your Family?

Take this example: you are a postal worker horribly injured by a vicious dog along your route. You are in the hospital for a few days, perhaps requiring surgery. If the injury is severe and affects one of your limbs, you’ll need ongoing physical therapy. You have to miss days, weeks or even more of work. If you aren’t compensated, who will put food on the table for your family? Should it come out of your pocket?

No way. That’s why you should call Kuzyk Law.

Think the insurance company will cover you? Wrong again.

Their standard business model for private insurance is to get you the bare minimum that may be just enough for immediate medical expenses and nothing else. You’ll need much more to cover the costs of ongoing therapy, and maybe even plastic surgery if the scarring affects the face.

At Kuzyk Law, we fight for your full compensation to cover current and future medical bills, physical therapy and surgeries, and pain and suffering. As the injured victim, you can seek compensation in dog bite cases for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, cost of surgeries, permanent injuries, pain and suffering and emotional distress.

You can also tap into the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy which may cover dog bites and dog attacks, with many policies offering between $100,000 and $300,000 of coverage. It’s possible that some dog owners could have coverage up to many millions of dollars.

Have you been a victim of the following dog bite injuries?

Even landlords can be held accountable for personal injury cases involving tenants who were allowed to keep a dangerous dog on the premises.

If so, you need a shrewd, experienced Lancaster dog bite attorney who knows the intricacies of the legal and insurance systems to get you the final payout you deserve.

The state of California has a “strict liability statute,” which means that owners are responsible for the actions of their dogs. The California Civil Code Section 3342 clearly states: “The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness.”

The key is to act right away. Call the Lancaster dog bite attorneys who can help you: Kuzyk Law.

Securing the Compensation You Deserve

If you’ve been a victim of a dog bite accident in California, it’s important to know that you have the right to seek compensation for the damages you’ve incurred.

If you have been searching for a “dog bite attorney near me,” we’re here to help you navigate the complex process of securing the compensation you deserve. Our experienced team of dog bite lawyers is well-versed in California dog bite law and will guide you through the steps necessary to ensure you receive the full range of compensation available to you.

When it comes to compensation, we understand that the impact of a dog bite can extend far beyond immediate medical expenses. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping you achieve compensation for a wide range of damages, including:

• Medical expenses. This covers all medical costs related to your dog bite injuries, including surgeries, hospitalization, and even psychological counseling if needed to cope with the aftermath of the incident.
• Lost wages. If your injuries force you to miss work or have a long-term impact on your earning potential, you have the right to seek compensation for lost wages.
• Pain and suffering. We understand that the physical and emotional pain caused by a dog bite can be substantial. Compensation for pain and suffering aims to provide you with the relief you deserve.
• Emotional distress. The trauma of a dog bite can lead to emotional distress. We’re here to ensure that you’re compensated for the emotional toll the incident has taken on you.
• Permanent disfigurement or scarring. If the dog bite resulted in permanent disfigurement or scarring, you have the right to seek compensation for the lasting impact on your appearance and self-esteem.
• Reduced quality of life. A dog bite can significantly impact your quality of life. We’ll fight to ensure you’re compensated for the negative changes the incident has brought about.

In most cases, compensation comes from the dog owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ liability insurance. We’ll work diligently to secure your compensation either through a settlement with the insurance company or by taking the case to court if necessary.

With an experienced California dog bite accident lawyer by your side, you’ll have a knowledgeable advocate fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the maximum compensation allowed by law.

The Role of a Dog Bite Attorney

You are looking for a “dog bite lawyer near me.” What role do they play? How can they help you?

When you’re facing the aftermath of a dog bite incident, having a seasoned and knowledgeable dog bite attorney on your side can significantly impact your case’s outcome.

Here’s how our expert team at Kuzyk Law can guide you through the legal process and help you secure the compensation you rightfully deserve:

Acting within the Statute of Limitations

Time is a crucial factor in any legal proceeding, and dog bite cases are no exception. Missing the filing deadline could jeopardize your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.

In California, dog bite cases fall under the broader statute of limitations for personal injury, assault, or battery claims. Typically, you have a two-year window from the date of the injury to file your case. Our expert attorneys understand these deadlines and will ensure your claim is submitted within the appropriate time frame. By acting swiftly, we safeguard your rights and maximize your opportunity for a successful resolution.

Crafting a Strong Case to Counter Potential Defenses

Dog bite cases can be intricate, often involving complex legal considerations. Our accomplished legal team is well-versed in the complications of these cases, enabling us to build a robust strategy that anticipates and counters potential defenses from the outset.

Dog owners might attempt various arguments, such as claiming the victim was trespassing, alleging comparative negligence, or arguing that the victim assumed the risk voluntarily. We meticulously construct your case to effectively counter these defenses, ensuring your claim is well-prepared, resilient, and compelling.

Pursuing Compensation for Injuries beyond Bites

While strict liability rules predominantly apply to dog bites, dog owners can also be held responsible for other injuries their dogs cause, even if a direct bite isn’t involved. For instance, if a dog’s behavior leads to an accident, injury, or emotional distress, the owner’s negligence may still be the root cause.

Our dog bite attorneys possess the expertise to determine the viability of claims for injuries beyond traditional bites. We’re dedicated to protecting your rights and pursuing all available avenues to secure the compensation you deserve.

Maximizing Compensation at Every Stage

At Kuzyk Law, our primary objective is to secure the maximum compensation possible for you. We understand the multifaceted impact of a dog bite—physically, emotionally, and financially. Our seasoned team is tenacious in their fight to ensure all relevant factors are considered when determining the compensation you’re entitled to receive.

From comprehensive coverage of medical expenses and lost wages to addressing pain and suffering, we leave no stone unturned in advocating for your complete compensation package.

Dog Bite Laws in California

Understanding your rights and responsibilities when it comes to dog bite incidents in California is crucial. At Kuzyk Law, we’re here to break down the legal landscape for you, ensuring you have the knowledge you need to protect your interests.

California dog bite law holds dog owners accountable for bites that occur in public places or on private property where the victim is lawfully present.

The law mandates that dog owners are responsible for all bites, whether the incident happens on the owner’s property or in a public space. This applies even if the dog has never displayed aggressive behavior before or if the owner had no reason to suspect that the dog might bite. Unlike some states that follow a one-bite rule, California operates under strict liability rules, making owners liable for all bites.

A key aspect of California dog bite law is the definition of a bite. The law recognizes that a bite occurs not only when a dog breaks the skin but also when the dog’s jaws close around a person or their clothing, causing harm or injury. This broad definition ensures that victims are protected, regardless of the severity of the bite.

California’s dog bite laws, outlined under Section 3342 of the California Civil Code, provide clear guidance on the liability of dog owners for damages suffered from a dog bite. The law takes into account whether the victim was lawfully on the property at the time of the incident. If the victim was on the property performing duties required by California or federal laws or was there by invitation (either express or implied) of the owner, they are considered lawfully present. This means that even if the bite occurs at the owner’s home, the victim is entitled to legal recourse.

Let’s Secure the Compensation You Deserve

At Kuzyk Law, we understand the ins and outs of California dog bite law and are here to guide you through the process. Our experienced team is well-equipped to help you understand your rights, assess your case, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Whether you were bitten on public property or were lawfully present on private property, our dedicated legal experts are here to advocate for you.

Schedule a confidential consultation today. Let’s unravel the facts of your case and fight for justice together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible for dog bite compensation?

Absolutely. If you’ve experienced a dog bite or if you have lost a loved one, you have every right to pursue compensation for both your financial and non-economic losses.

At Kuzyk Law, we’re committed to fighting for your full compensation, which can cover medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, scar revision treatments, and even the emotional toll, such as PTSD.

Who is responsible for a dog bite in California?

California law is clear: dog owners are responsible for bites that occur in public places or on private property where the victim is lawfully present. This extends to bites even at the owner’s home, provided the victim has lawful access.

Whether you’re on official duty by law or invited by the owner, you’re a lawful visitor. Notably, California enforces strict liability rules, holding owners accountable for bites regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s awareness.

Will the dog be euthanized?

California acknowledges the importance of public safety and addresses dogs deemed “dangerous” or “potentially dangerous.” While euthanasia is a possibility for dangerous dogs, potentially dangerous dogs may face restrictions such as confinement, leash mandates, and more. Factors like prior incidents of aggression or injuries to humans or animals are considered in these determinations.

What happens if a dog bites you in California?

If you’re bitten by a dog in California, you have the legal right to pursue compensation from the owner. You can seek damages to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. At Kuzyk Law, our skilled team is here to guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and justice is served.

Does California have a one-bite rule for dogs?

No, California does not apply the one-bite rule in dog bite cases. The state enforces strict liability for dog owners, meaning they are responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, irrespective of the animal’s history. This approach prioritizes victim protection and holds owners accountable for their pets’ actions.

Proudly Serving Lancaster, CA

Situated in the Antelope Valley, Lancaster is home to nearly 170,000 people. Among them, we have many, many dog owners. We represent your best interests throughout Lancaster, as well as the rest of Southern California, including Palmdale, Los Angeles, Bakersfield, San Bernardino, Victorville, Apple Valley, and Riverside County.

Don’t worry about logistics; if you need us to visit your home because you can’t get to our offices, just ask. We want you to be as comfortable as possible, and can accommodate your English or Spanish communication needs too.

It all starts with that first phone call to us. We’ll give you a FREE, no-obligation consultation. Call us at 661-945-6969.