Dog Bite Lawyer California | HellaHurt
Injured in a dog bite in California? HellaHurt's licensed personal injury attorneys fight for full compensation for your documented losses. Free case check. No fees unless we win. Call 888-693-5777.
California Dog Bite Law: Strict Liability
California Civil Code § 3342 imposes strict liability on dog owners when their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property. Unlike most states, California does not require proof that the owner knew the dog was dangerous — the owner is liable for the first bite.
Exceptions: Strict liability does not apply if the victim was trespassing or provoked the dog. Comparative negligence may reduce the victim's recovery if they contributed to the incident.
Insurance: Most homeowner's and renter's insurance policies cover dog bite liability. HellaHurt identifies all available insurance coverage and pursues the full policy limits when injuries are serious.
Statute of limitations: 2 years from the date of the bite (CCP § 335.1). For bites by government-owned dogs (police K-9s), the 6-month government tort claim deadline applies.
What Damages Can You Recover?
California dog bite victims may recover:
- Medical expenses — past and future hospital bills, surgery, physical therapy, medication
- Lost wages — income lost while recovering, plus future earning capacity if you can no longer work at full capacity
- Pain and suffering — physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
- Property damage — vehicle repair or replacement, personal property
- Punitive damages — in cases of extreme negligence or intentional misconduct
What to Do After a Dog Bite Incident in California
The steps you take immediately after a dog bite incident in California can significantly affect the value of your claim. Here is what to do:
- Call 911: Get police and emergency medical services to the scene. The police report is foundational evidence for your claim.
- Seek medical attention immediately: Even if you feel fine, get evaluated. Many serious injuries — including traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding — have delayed symptoms. Gaps in medical treatment hurt your claim.
- Document everything: Take photos and video of the scene, all parties involved, road or property conditions, your visible injuries, and any damage. Surveillance footage is often overwritten within 24–72 hours — act fast.
- Get witness information: Names and phone numbers of anyone who witnessed the incident. Witnesses become harder to locate over time.
- Do not give a recorded statement: Do not give a recorded statement to the other party's insurance company without consulting an attorney first. Adjusters use recorded statements to find inconsistencies that reduce your settlement.
- Contact HellaHurt: Call 888-693-5777 or start your free AI case check to understand your rights before speaking with any insurance company.
Why Choose HellaHurt for Your California Dog Bite Case
- Licensed California attorneys: Morgan D. Ross (CA Bar #270650) and Robert B. Salgado (CA Bar #297391)
- Contingency fee: You pay nothing unless we win your case
- Free AI case check: Get an instant analysis of your claim in under 2 minutes
- Statewide representation: We handle cases throughout all of California
- Free consultation: No pressure, no obligation
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in California?
California's statute of limitations for personal injury is 2 years from the date of injury (CCP § 335.1). For claims against government entities, you have only 6 months to file a government tort claim. Contact HellaHurt immediately if you are approaching a deadline.
What compensation can I recover for a dog bite in California?
California injury victims may recover medical expenses (past and future), lost wages and earning capacity, pain and suffering, property damage, and in wrongful death cases, funeral expenses and loss of financial support. California has no cap on compensatory damages in personal injury cases.
Does California have a 'one bite rule'?
No. California Civil Code § 3342 imposes strict liability — the owner is liable for the first bite, regardless of whether they knew the dog was dangerous. This is stronger protection for victims than the 'one bite rule' used in some other states.
What if the dog owner has no homeowner's insurance?
HellaHurt investigates all available coverage, including renter's insurance and umbrella policies. If no insurance exists, we pursue the owner's personal assets. We advise you on the realistic recovery options before you commit to litigation.
Does HellaHurt handle dog bite cases throughout California?
Yes. HellaHurt handles dog bite cases throughout all of California — San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and every city in between. We are a statewide firm. Call 888-693-5777 for a free consultation.
What if I was partially at fault for my dog bite in California?
California follows pure comparative negligence — you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. Insurance adjusters often try to inflate your fault percentage to reduce their payout. HellaHurt fights back.
Free Case Evaluation
- Start your free AI case check — instant analysis in under 2 minutes →
- Call 888-693-5777
- No fees unless we win