If you suffer a dog bite injury while on the property of a friend or loved one, the person that owns the dog will generally be responsible for damages. However, some people wonder if this gets more complicated if the dog bite injury occurs in an apartment complex and if the landlord can then be held responsible.
In some situations, yes, the landlord might be liable for damages. Keep reading to learn when this is the case and then contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation if you have suffered a dog bite injury and require the help of a personal injury attorney.
California is a Strict Liability State When It Comes to Dog Bites
What does this mean? It means that a dog owner is responsible for their dog’s actions in almost all situations. Even if the owner claims they had no reason to suspect that their dog was dangerous, this is irrelevant. If their dog bit someone, even if the dog had no prior violent behavior, the owner is still almost always liable.
Of course, there are a few exceptions. For example, if someone was trespassing and got bitten by a dog, then they would not likely be able to hold the owner liable for their damages because they were trespassing. Likewise, if someone was attacking the dog’s owner (or the dog itself) and the dog reacted by biting them, then the dog owner would likely not be liable for damages.
Situations in Which the Landlord Can Be Found Liable
There is also one situation in which a landlord can be held accountable. This is a situation in which they knew that the dog was dangerous and did not require that the dog was removed. For example, if the landlord knows that the dog bit someone and allows the tenant to keep the dog, then the landlord has taken on at least some of the liability for any damages.
On the other hand, if the landlord has stipulated that the tenant remove their dog and the tenant refuses to do so or has not done so, then the landlord generally cannot be held liable.
What to Do if You Suffer a Dog Bite Injury
If a dog attacks you, the first thing you should do is get medical care. Even if the bite seems superficial, remember that dogs can carry disease, and you need a medical professional to confirm that you have not been infected with something.
Once you are safe and have received medical care, contact a personal injury attorney to find out what your options are. There is no reason that you should be held responsible for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages due to someone else’s dog biting you. Contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
