Swap Phone Numbers
Make sure to exchange phone numbers and other contact information with the dog’s owner or caregiver since you will need to be able to easily reach him or her in the coming days to inquire about their pet’s vaccination history.
Witnesses at the Scene
If anyone watched the dog bite injury occur, obtain their contact information before they leave the scene. They will be able to help back up your claim.
File a Report
People are often hesitant to file a report with animal control, but doing so can help prevent others from being bitten. It might even help the investigation regarding your own case.
You should also do your best to document your injury before and after treatment. Take pictures that show the healing process and keep a journal to note your pain level and inability to perform certain tasks or motions. A personal injury claim can take some time, so it is crucial to write down these details. After ensuring your safety, reach out to a dog bit attorney in Los Angeles to begin your claim.
What an Attorney Does in a Dog Bite Claim
Our Los Angeles dog bite attorney plays a crucial role in representing you or a loved one to pursue compensation after a dog bite attack. We will fight for a just settlement to pay you for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, permanent scarring and disfigurement, emotional and psychological distress, and other losses. Examples of what our firm will do include the following:
- Provide you with an initial consultation and legal advice to evaluate the incident, explain your rights under California’s Strict Liability Statute, and assess the case’s strength
- Investigate and gather the vital evidence, such as police and animal control reports, medical records, photographs of your injuries, property damage, and the scene, witness statements, and build a powerful case
- Handle all the communication and negotiations with insurance companies, including the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance company, to file the claim and negotiate a settlement
- Gather everything needed to document all your economic and non-economic damages and losses to calculate and aggressively pursue the maximum potential compensation amount
- If we do not reach an acceptable settlement with the insurer or during the mediation, we will prepare and file the formal complaint in civil court and handle discovery, pre-trial motions, and litigation
Our firm will address any issues, ensure compliance with applicable statutes, and represent you at trial, fighting for a just outcome and settlement.
Why You Need a Lawyer
While there is no legal requirement for hiring a proficient dog bite lawyer in Los Angeles, it increases your chance of reaching the best outcome in your case drastically. California Code § 3342 follows a strict liability rule for injuries and losses caused by dog bites and attacks, which means if you lawfully entered the property, the law does not require you to prove the owner was negligent. Even so, the cases are complex, and roadblocks often pop up.
Hiring a practiced legal professional is highly advisable, and in some cases critical, for several reasons. Insurance companies often offer lowball settlements and undervalue claims, particularly for non-economic damage, like emotional distress and scarring.
We will support and protect your rights and interests and advocate for the maximum potential payout. There may also be arguments from the defendant’s attorney to overcome. Even if the case they present is inaccurate, that could significantly reduce your settlement. Our firm will build a strong case from the start, gather all critical evidence, and maximize your compensation.
How to Find a Lawyer
Finding the appropriate dog bite lawyer to handle your case in Los Angeles requires narrowing the search to those who specialize in personal injury with substantial experience in animal attacks. Extensive experience in handling cases involving the state’s strict liability laws is crucial. The suits typically settle out of court through insurance company negotiations, so skilled negotiation is vital to maximizing your damages recovery.
The best referral is word of mouth. Speak to friends and associates to see if they’ve had similar legal experiences and can suggest someone. It is also essential to ask questions and meet with as many as necessary until you feel satisfied that they can provide the services you seek. Try the online referral services, such as superlawyers.com, and search for animal bites in the search bar. You can also contact the California State Bar’s certified Lawyer Referral Services, which will connect you with attorneys they have screened to meet your needs.
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