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Chico Dog Bite Lawyer

dogMany families own pets and most people consider those pets, particularly dogs, to be a part of their family. While most dogs are friendly and provide love unconditionally, there are times when a dog may turn violent and bite another person. Because of the emotional attachment, most pet owners would do anything to protect their dog; however, a dog bite can result in serious injuries to other people, particularly children who may not be able to identify an unfriendly dog. Injuries can result in hospital visits, permanent injuries, emotional trauma, or even death.

Why Do Dogs Bite?

Most pet owners aren’t able to look at the situation objectively because they may not believe their dog is capable of hurting another person; however, many dog bite injuries are reported on an annual basis, with many of the victims being kids. While authorities and pet owners may try to find a reason for the dog bite, it remains that many times dogs attack without reason. They may have a traumatic past, they could be naturally aggressive, or they may be ill. Regardless of the reason, it is important for everyone to take dog bite injuries seriously.

What Dog Breeds are Considered Dangerous?

Like most animals, there are many different breeds and some breeds are considered more dangerous than others. Without a doubt, the dog’s upbringing plays a role in its final personality and the vast majority of the dogs coming from these breeds are perfectly friendly; however, these are also the dog breeds that have a tendency to turn aggressive. Some of the most dangerous dog breeds include:

  • Pit Bull: The Pit Bull is a common household pet and most are perfectly friendly; however, there is a reason the Pit Bull has been banned in many European countries.
  • Rottweiler: The Rottweiler tends to provide love and protection to its family and people it knows but this can be taken too far if approached by an unfamiliar outsider.
  • German Shepard: There is a reason this dog is used by police to catch criminals.
  • Doberman: This is an athletic dog breed that likes to jump and its personality makes it popular for police forces as well.
What are Some Common Dog Bite Injuries?

Almost everyone has seen a bite from an animal at some point. People think about teeth marks left in the skin and possible blood leaking from the wound; however, dog bite wounds can vary widely in size depending on the type of dog and the number of bites. For example, larger dogs with a more aggressive personality may dig deeper in the skin. If the dog bites multiple times, this could lead to serious injuries that could place the victim in the hospital. Aside from the wound, some of the common complications of a dog bite include:

  • Nerve Damage: If the teeth penetrate through the skin and fascia, it could damage nerves underneath, leading to motor and sensory impairment.
  • Broken Bones: Some dogs possess the muscle strength to break some of the smaller bones in the human body.
  • Internal Bleeding: If the dog bites the patient’s chest or abdomen, this could damage blood vessels underneath the surface of the skin, leading to internal bleeding.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries: This could happen either from the force of the dog knocking the patient to the ground or from a lack of oxygen due to blood loss.
  • Permanent Disfigurement: Dogs may go for the throat or face, leading to permanent disfigurement.
What is the Law Surrounding Dog Bites in California?

When it comes to dog bites in Chico, it is important for both pet owners and victims to understand the law. California has strict liability laws surrounding dog bites which means that victims of dog bite injuries in Chico are afforded the highest amount of financial protection. Furthermore, under these California laws, any dog that causes injuries to another person will lead to the owner of that dog being held responsible for the injuries and any damages from the injuries. In addition, the dog may not have a prior record or have ever displayed any aggressive behavior in the past. There also doesn’t have to be intent to harm. Regardless of the circumstances, the owner of the dog will be held liable.

Dog owners in the state of California are accountable for the actions of their pets. Owning a pet can be a rewarding experience and dogs provide their owners with unconditional love; however, owning a pet also means taking responsibility for the pet. The pet must be fed, raised, trained, and taught how to behave towards other people. If the dog is aggressive and attacks other people, the owner is responsible.

Why Do I Need a Chico Dog Bite Lawyer?

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite attack in Chico, there may be an opportunity to recover the maximum amount of liability under the dog bite laws in the state of California. It is important to choose a lawyer with experience representing victims of dog bite attacks in Chico. I have multiple decades of experience representing victims of dog bites and understand the intricacies of the legal system, allowing me to provide effective guidance to all of my clients.

The video below explains the types of damages that can be claimed in a dog bite case.

Dog Bite Lawyers in Chico

I’m Ed Smith, a Chico dog bite attorney. Dog bites can lead to major medical expenses and emotional trauma, particularly if the dog bite requires an extended stay at the hospital. If you or someone you know was injured by a dog bite, please call me at (503) 392-9400  or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice.

We are members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.

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Editor’s Note: This page has been updated for accuracy and relevancy [cha 6.10.20]

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