A dog attack is terrifying and it often leaves more than physical wounds. California law protects victims through strict liability statutes, but you still need to know your rights, the legal process, and how to maximize your recovery.
Under California Civil Code § 3342, dog owners are automatically responsible for bite injuries if:
It doesn’t matter if the dog never bit before or had no history of aggression. This means victims do not have to prove that the owner was negligent, only that the bite occurred under qualifying conditions. The law applies to bites that happen in parks, sidewalks, businesses, and even in the owner’s own yard. Owners cannot escape liability by claiming they “didn’t know” the dog was dangerous. This makes it easier for victims to recover damages quickly and without unnecessary legal hurdles. However, these cases still benefit greatly from legal representation to ensure full compensation and protection against low settlement offers.
Possible defenses include:
However, these defenses must be proven by the dog owner and are not assumed.
At The Injury Partners, we offer aggressive representation backed by compassion and experience. We understand what’s at stake and will fight to secure the compensation you deserve.
We operate on a contingency fee basis — you don’t pay unless we win your case.
🏢 9440 S. Santa Monica Boulevard, Suite 301, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
