Dogs are known as man’s best friend, making it a natural reaction to run up and pet a dog when you see one. While most dogs, especially those that are family pets, tend to be docile, they are still animals and may become violent when it is least expected. There are about 4.5 million dog bites reported in the United States each year. Whether a dog bite occurs because the animal was afraid, provoked, or the bite was a random incident, the question of who holds responsibility for the incident comes to mind.
Younglove Law Group is a team of skilled dog bite lawyers helping clients in California. While it can sometimes be difficult to determine who is responsible for a dog bite in California, you should consult with an experienced lawyer who may be able to help you determine who is liable.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Dog Bite in California?
While California Civil Code section 3342 states a dog’s owner is strictly liable for any injuries suffered by another person that were caused by their dog’s bite, several other potential parties may be held responsible when a dog bite occurs.
The Dog’s Caretaker
If a dog bite occurs while the dog is under the care or supervision of someone else besides the owner, that caretaker may be held liable. While a dog’s owner does not need to have knowledge of a dog’s aggression or history to be held liable, a caretaker does. To be held liable for the incident, the caretaker must have been acting in a negligent way that led to the dog bite. There are exceptions to this rule as well, which an experienced dog bite attorney will be able to apply.
Residential Property Owners
If a property owner knows a dog on their property is dangerous, they may be held liable for that dog’s bite. Additionally, if the dog escapes the property and bites someone due to a known defect such as a broken gate, the property owner may be held responsible even if the incident took place off the grounds.
Landlords
A landlord can be held responsible for a dog bite if they knew that a tenant’s dog had violent tendencies and they had the right to remove the dog from the property but did not.
Commercial Property Owners
Commercial property owners have a responsibility to thoroughly inspect their properties for any dangers, including a potentially violent dog. If a dog bite does occur on their property, they cannot claim they are not responsible just because they were not aware of the dog on the premises.
Get Help From a California Dog Bite Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been bit by a dog, you deserve to get financial compensation for your injury. A California dog bite lawyer may be able to help you determine who is responsible as you pursue the damages you are owed.
Younglove Law Group is a team of California dog bite lawyers with extensive experience helping clients pursue the justice they deserve. Our skilled dog bite lawyers are proud to provide our clients with the personalized and dedicated representation they deserve. To set up a free case review with one of our award-winning lawyers, contact us here or call (949) 691-3660.
