UNDERSTANDING DOG BITES INJURIES AND THE COMPENSATION YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO

A dog attack can be a traumatic experience, leaving victims with physical injuries and emotional scars. At Shiganian Law, we understand the complexities of dog bite cases in California and are here to help you seek justice and compensation for your injuries. Located in Sherman Oaks, our personal injury law firm is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation for dog bite victims across the state.

WHY DOG BITES ARE DANGEROUS

Dog bites can range from minor scratches to severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one in five dog bites requires medical attention, translating to over 800,000 cases annually in the United States. Beyond the immediate physical harm, dog bites can lead to serious infections, such as rabies or sepsis, and long-term psychological trauma, especially in children. It is crucial to seek medical attention immediately following a dog bite and consult a legal expert to protect your rights.

CALIFORNIA DOG BITE LAW: STRICT LIABILITY

California follows a strict liability rule for dog bites, meaning that the dog’s owner is liable for any injuries their dog causes, regardless of whether the dog has shown previous aggression. Under California Civil Code Section 3342, a dog owner can be held responsible if their dog bites someone in a public place or when the victim is lawfully on private property. This law applies even if the owner had no prior knowledge of the dog’s dangerous behavior. At Shiganian Law, our experienced attorneys will help you navigate these legal complexities and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Keep in mind, if the dog owner knew that their dog is aggressive, had any prior incidents of their dog biting someone, you can also be entitled to punitive damages, which is intended to punish the dog owner for allowing their aggressive dog to cause another injury. This is specifically where you need an experienced attorney to be able to understand and gather facts regarding your entitlement to punitive damages.

COMMON CAUSES OF DOG BITES

Understanding the reasons behind a dog’s aggressive behavior can be critical in building a strong legal case. Some common causes include:

• Fear or anxiety: Dogs may bite when they feel threatened or scared, especially in unfamiliar environments.
• Protectiveness: Dogs can become aggressive if they perceive a threat to their owner, territory, or possessions.
• Lack of training: Poorly trained or socialized dogs are more likely to bite, especially when exposed to new situations or people.
• Provocation: Unintentional provocation, such as startling a dog or trying to take away its food, can lead to an attack.

Regardless of the cause, if you’ve been bitten by a dog, our team will investigate the circumstances and work to hold the responsible parties accountable.

WHAT TO DO AFTER A DOG BITE AS A VICTIM

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, taking the following steps can help protect your health and legal rights:

1. Seek immediate medical attention: Even minor bites can lead to serious infections. It’s crucial to get medical care as soon as possible.
2. Document the incident: Take photos of your injuries, the location of the attack, and the dog involved. Gather contact information from the dog owner and any witnesses.
3. Report the bite: Contact local animal control to report the incident. This can help prevent future attacks by the same dog.
4. Consult an attorney: Reach out to Shiganian Law for a free consultation. Our attorneys will guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

COMPENSATION FOR DOG BITE VICTIMS

Victims of dog bites in California may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses: Coverage for past, ongoing, and future medical treatments related to the injury.
• Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to the injury and recovery.
• Pain and suffering: Damages for the physical and emotional trauma experienced due to the bite.
• Property damage: Reimbursement for any personal property damaged during the attack.
• Punitive damages: if you are successful in proving that the dog at issue had prior bites and/or that the owner knew about aggressive behavior of the dog you may be entitled to punitive damages.

At Shiganian Law, we are committed to ensuring that you receive full compensation for your injuries and losses.

REASONS TO HIRE A LAWYER FOR A DOG BITE CASE

1. In-Depth Knowledge of Dog Bite Laws

Dog bite incidents can be legally intricate, particularly in states like California where strict liability laws come into play. An attorney who specializes in this area will have a comprehensive understanding of the legal framework, including California’s Civil Code Section 3342. This knowledge is crucial for navigating the legal process and ensuring that your rights are upheld.

2. Proper Case Valuation

An attorney can provide an accurate assessment of your case’s worth, taking into account various factors such as medical bills, lost income, pain, suffering, and any long-term consequences of the injury. Without legal expertise, you may undervalue your claim, potentially leading to a settlement that doesn’t fully address your needs.

As opposed to many other types of personal injury cases, this is an area where you can be entitled to punitive damages if you are successful in proving that the owner knew about the dog's aggressive behavior or if the dog had previous attacks. Determining the existence of punitive damages is tricky and will require experience and legal help.

3. Establishing Liability

Determining who is responsible for a dog bite isn’t always straightforward. A qualified lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation, collect necessary evidence, and identify the liable parties—whether it’s the dog’s owner, a caregiver, or another individual. They will also help counter any defenses the owner might assert, such as claims of provocation or trespassing.

4. Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts to protect their interests. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf, ensuring that you receive a fair settlement. They are familiar with the tactics insurance companies use and can effectively counter them. If the insurer is unwilling to offer a reasonable amount, your lawyer can escalate the case to court.

5. Managing Legal Procedures

Filing a dog bite claim involves numerous legal steps, including preparing paperwork, conducting necessary research on dog's history and any reports made to animal controls regarding their prior attacks, adhering to deadlines, and following court procedures. A lawyer can manage these tasks efficiently, reducing your stress and ensuring the case moves forward smoothly.

6. Maximizing Your Compensation

A lawyer’s objective is to secure the highest possible compensation for you, covering not only immediate medical costs but also future expenses such as ongoing treatment and rehabilitation. They will also seek damages for non-economic factors like emotional distress, pain, and a reduced quality of life.

7. No Upfront Costs

We don't charge you anything upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This means you can pursue legal help without worrying about the financial burden.

CONTACT SHIGANIAN LAW TODAY

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. The team at Shiganian Law in Sherman Oaks is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need during this challenging time. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step toward recovery and justice.

MEET ISABEL SHIGANIAN

Your Personal Injury Lawyer

I am Isabel Shiganian, a dedicated personal injury attorney and the proud founder of Shiganian Law. A name that I hope you will come to associate with care, trust, and your best interests, which will be my lighthouse throughout our journey together.

My legal career spans over a decade, with more than 3 years in the United States and over 7 years in Europe, where I have been recognized for my strategic prowess and unwavering client-focused approach in handling personal injury and domestic violence cases, in recognizing and fighting for human rights. My practice is built on a commitment to securing justice for those wronged, and I have had the privilege of helping my clients recover millions.

Before establishing Shiganian Law, I sharpened my skills as an associate attorney in several prestigious law firms across Los Angeles, specializing in a broad spectrum of cases, from premises liability to medical malpractice.

I firmly believe that everyone deserves personalized, attentive and what is more important, passionate, representation. My diverse experience across various legal sectors, coupled with my commitment to my clients' well-being, distinguishes me in the field of personal injury law. Known for my strategic thinking, compassionate approach, and relentless pursuit of justice, my ability to connect with and successfully represent my clients is further enhanced by my fluency in multiple languages and international insights.

My international experience is a cornerstone of my practice, offering me a unique perspective on the law and enhancing my ability to effectively advocate for my clients. My involvement in human rights work, including overseeing parliamentary elections and advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities, has reinforced my commitment to fairness and equity.

Currently serving Sherman Oaks and Encino, I continue to lead Shiganian Law Corp with a blend of international savvy and local expertise. My commitment to legal excellence and passion for justice not only make me a formidable advocate for my clients but also a respected member of the legal community. And I hope, this all will take me where YOU can put YOUR trust in me and proudly walk hand in hand until we get what YOU deserve.