You are going to have a lot of questions if a dog bit you or someone you care about in California. The best way to learn more about the legal ramifications of your case is to contact a personal injury lawyer for a free legal consultation. To learn the answers to some of the most difficult questions in these circumstances, continue reading. Then contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
If a dog bites me, will it be quarantined?
Yes. In California, a dog that attacks someone must be quarantined by law. It will often last for ten days. At that time, the dog will be tested by the county to ensure that it does not have rabies. In some cases, the dog may be allowed to stay at home with its owners. In other circumstances, it will be kept in a county-run animal care facility. The animal will likely be restored to its owner’s care if it is determined to be rabies-free and healthy throughout the quarantine.
Will the dog be euthanized?
No, most of the time a dog that bites will not be put to death. However, there are several exceptions. The legislation permits euthanasia if a dog attacks someone twice or if the dog was trained to fight and attack and bite someone severely enough to cause considerable harm. Dogs owned by people may occasionally be taken away. There will be a hearing, and the dog might be euthanized.
Are renters’ or homeowners’ insurance policies going to pay damages in a dog attack case?
Yes, that does occur rather frequently. Dog bites are, in fact, the most frequent liability claim for both forms of insurance. However, it is important to keep in mind that some insurance providers have breed restrictions for which they will not provide coverage. Among the most common restricted breeds include pit bulls, German shepherds, Staffordshire terriers, Dobermans, chows, atikas, Siberian huskies, wolf hybrids, and Alaskan malamutes.
You should be aware that if you decide to file a claim for a dog bite, you almost probably will not be suing the dog’s owner directly. You are going to sue their insurance provider. You can rest assured that you will not put a buddy out of business because most dog attacks involve someone the victim knows.
What if a dog attacks me but does not bite me?
You will almost always need to show that the dog’s owner was negligent in some way if the dog hurt you but did not bite you. This requires proving that the dog’s owner knew or ought to have known that their dog was dangerous. If the dog bites, you will find that this is not necessary.
Are you still trying to find answers to your California dog bite-related questions? If so, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas to arrange a free legal consultation by calling 909-982-0707.
