San Francisco Animal and Dog Bite Lawyer

Throughout the United States, more than five million people are hurt every year by dog bites and animal attacks. According to State Farm, one of the largest insurance companies in the country, California repeatedly has more dog bite claims than any other state in the nation. The law in San Francisco, and throughout the state, protects victims and allows them to recover compensation for their injuries. Our San Francisco animal and dog bite lawyer can help you obtain the full settlement you are entitled to.

What is the Law on Animal and Dog Bites in San Francisco?

At one time, California followed the ‘one bite’ rule when it came to dog bites. Under this law, victims could only pursue compensation if the dog had bitten someone in the past, or the owner knew of the dog’s aggressive or violent tendencies. This is no longer the case. Today, dog owners and others can be held strictly liable for dog bites and resulting injuries. This means you must only prove that the dog bit or attacked you and you suffered injuries as a result.

As with most laws, those pertaining to dog bites and attacks do have some exceptions. These are as follows:

• The victim was unlawfully on private property during the attack
• The dog is a law enforcement animal
• The victim assumed risk of getting bitten, also known as the ‘veterinarian’s rule’
• The victim was partly to blame for their injuries, such as if they provoked the animal prior to the bite

In the majority of cases, you can hold dog owners liable for your injuries, regardless of how minor or severe they are.

Determining Liability After a Dog Bite

Dog owners can be held liable any time their animal bites or attacks another person. However, there are other parties that are sometimes found liable, as well. These include:

• Caretakers of animals: Anyone who takes custody of a dog or has control of them at the time of a bite or attack can be held liable. Dog walkers and kennels are common examples of individuals who, other than the owner of an animal, have control of a dog who has bitten someone.
• Landlords: A landlord can potentially be held liable if the bite or attack occurred on their property, even if they are not the owner of the animal. Additionally, if a landlord knew a dog had aggressive or violent tendencies but still allowed them on the property, they can also be held liable.

Call Our Animal and Dog Bite Lawyer in San Francisco for a Consultation

Dog bites and other animal attacks result in very serious injuries, including permanent scarring and disfigurement. If you or someone you love has been hurt, our San Francisco animal and dog bite lawyer at Venardi Zurada can help. We will investigate your case, determine who is liable for paying damages, and help you obtain the full and fair settlement you are entitled to. Call us now at (833) 893-6763 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and to learn more about how we can help.

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