Dogs are great companions and live in many households throughout California. When a dog is trained as a loving and obedient pet, they can provide their owners with years of companionship and affection. Unfortunately, not all pet owners take their duties seriously and some dogs are not prepared to have interactions with other humans.
Injuries caused by dogs are serious matters that can result in significant personal harm and even death. When a pet attacks, a victim should know their rights under the law. This post will introduce readers to three important facts about dog bite laws in California. The information contained herein should not be used as legal advice or guidance.
Fact #1: There is no one-bite rule in California
Some jurisdictions recognize a one-bite rule for dogs. This means that if an owner did not know their dog had dangerous tendencies, then they could not be held liable for a victim’s losses if it was the first time their dog inflicted a bite injury. In California, dog owners are strictly liable for the bite injuries of their pets, even if those injuries are caused by first bites.
Fact #2: Negligence is the standard for non-bite injuries
Dogs can cause injuries with their bodies and not just their mouths. A dog who scratches or trips a victim may inflict serious harm upon them. However, these types of injuries are not subject to strict liability in California. Rather, victims must prove negligence to show that they should be able to recover their non-bite injury losses.
Fact #3: Victims have two years to file their dog injury claims
In California, personal injury actions are subject to a 2-year statute of limitations. That means victims have a limited amount of time to begin litigation for the recovery of their losses before they lose their rights to sue. Dog bite and injury victims can speak with personal injury attorneys to ensure that their claims are timely and not subject to statute of limitations challenges.
Dog bite and injury accidents are painful and serious. They should be managed by serious personal injury lawyers. Victims deserve representation they can count on to help them achieve the best possible legal results for their cases.