A few things are as worse as suffering a dog bite. While man’s best friend is known for many qualities, it is also essential to understand that dogs are animals and may act aggressively for many reasons. Because canines have such strong teeth, dog bites can often lead to serious outcomes, including fractures and puncture wounds. If the owner was irresponsible or didn’t do enough to prevent the accident from happening, the victim may have an injury claim. When you are in a similar situation in Roseville, you need to consider all relevant options to recover a settlement. In this post, let’s discuss the laws in California and why it is vital to engage a Roseville injury lawyer.
Reviewing California laws
Many states have the “one-bite rule.” That essentially means that a dog owner cannot be held responsible for their pet’s action for the first time when they were unaware that the dog had aggressive tendencies. They are expected to take action immediately and control the dog on a leash to prevent such mishaps from happening.
Thankfully, that’s not the rule in California. The state follows the “strict liability” rule, which makes a dog owner responsible for any injuries caused by their pet. The rule applies not only to humans but also to other animals injured by an aggressive dog. The owner is liable for the medical care of the victim. Also, applies to other circumstances too, where the dog has not directly bitten the victim but caused an injury. For instance, if you were walking down the road and a dog knocks you down, the owner will be responsible for the hurt caused to you due to the fall. The only exception is a veterinarian or anyone who works at the vet’s office.
What if the dog was on a leash, and the owner tried to control the animal? As per California laws, the owner is still liable. If the person failed to take action, they are also liable for negligence.
Get an attorney
Dog bite injuries are often complex and need extensive medical care. Don’t let someone get away with their animal’s behavior. You should engage an attorney who can guide you through the claims process. They can negotiate the settlement and ensure you don’t end up with a low offer. Not all injury lawyers deal with dog bite claims, and you should do your homework to find the right one.
