Woodland Hills Dog Bite & Animal Attack Lawyer: Legal Support for Dog Bite Victims in California

Injuries from dog bites and animal attacks can lead to severe physical and emotional trauma, medical bills, lost wages, and even permanent disfigurement. If you or a loved one were injured by a dog or other domestic animal, Drake Law Firm's experienced attorneys in Woodland Hills are here to help you pursue justice and recover the compensation you deserve.

Proven Success in Personal Injury Claims

With a strong track record in personal injury law, Drake Law Firm has recovered over $150 million for victims across California. Some of our recent successes include:

• $2.65 million for a pedestrian accident victim
• $2.5 million for a T-bone accident victim
• $1.5 million for a truck accident victim
• $1.23 million for a motorcyclist struck by a vehicle

Backed by more than a century of combined legal experience, our attorneys have the skills and resources to take on challenging injury claims, including dog bites and animal attacks resulting in catastrophic injuries. Contact our Woodland Hills office today for a free consultation on your case.

California’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Statute

California’s dog bite laws are among the strictest in the country, with a strict liability statute under Section 3342 of the California Civil Code. This law holds dog owners accountable for bites, even if their pet has never shown prior aggression or if the owner was not otherwise negligent. To succeed with a strict liability claim, victims must show that:

• The defendant owned the dog.
• The dog’s bite directly caused the victim’s injuries.
• The incident occurred in a public place, such as a park or sidewalk, or while the victim was lawfully on private property, such as an invited guest, contracted worker, or with express permission.

Additional Grounds for Owner Liability

While strict liability is typically the most straightforward route, other legal avenues exist for proving owner liability:

• Negligence Claims: If the pet owner failed to properly restrain or secure their dog, such as neglecting to use a leash or confining the dog in unsafe areas, victims may pursue a negligence claim.
• Knowledge of Dangerous Propensities: If an owner knew or should have known of the animal's dangerous tendencies, they might be liable if they failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent an attack.

Common Defenses in Dog Bite Lawsuits

Dog owners may attempt to reduce their liability using specific defenses, including:

• Trespassing: Claiming that the victim was unlawfully on private property.
• Working K9 Defense: If the dog was a police or military animal performing official duties.
• Assumption of Risk: Applied to professionals like veterinarians who knowingly engage with animals at risk.
• Comparative Negligence: Alleging that the victim was partially responsible for their injuries, potentially reducing the compensation awarded.

Our attorneys are skilled in countering these defenses, helping victims build strong claims for comprehensive compensation, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Drake Law Firm: Your Trusted Woodland Hills Dog Bite Attorneys

Our team serves dog bite victims throughout Woodland Hills, the San Fernando Valley, and beyond, offering clients personalized guidance and aggressive advocacy. Contact Drake Law Firm at 844-513-7253 or online for a FREE case review and find out how we can help secure the compensation you need to move forward after an animal attack.