When One Bite is All It Takes
Everyone knows the famous comedian Rodney Dangerfield and his humorous take on owning a dog: “What a dog I got, his favorite bone is my arm.” It’s a funny line, but unfortunately, dog bites are no laughing matter. In fact, according to a national study conducted in 2010, the number of Americans hospitalized for dog bites nearly doubled over a 25-year period. That’s why California has strict laws in place to protect people from the harm caused by these incidents. At Garrity Traina, our Sacramento dog bite lawyers specialize in handling these cases and ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Dog Bites Law in California
In California, there is a legal principle known as the “one bite rule” when it comes to dog bite cases. This means that dog owners are held responsible for any injuries caused by their pets, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. Unlike other types of personal injury cases, where fault must be proven, dog bite cases operate under a strict liability framework. This is outlined in California Civil Code Section 3342.
It’s important to note that certain dog breeds are statistically more likely to bite than others. According to the data, Chow, Pit Bull, Terrier, Husky, Rottweiler, Doberman, and Akita breeds are often involved in aggressive incidents. Additionally, male dogs are 6.2 times more likely to bite than females.
The Damage a Bite Can Inflict
Dogs possess sharp teeth that are specifically designed for tearing meat, which means their bites can cause significant damage, including scarring and disfigurement. Moreover, animals can carry diseases, so seeking immediate medical attention after a dog bite is crucial. It’s important to consult with a doctor about protecting yourself from illnesses like rabies.
Interestingly, the cost of hospitalization for a dog bite averages around $18,200, which is approximately 50% higher than the average hospital stay for other types of injuries. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, there are several steps you should take:
- Obtain the name and contact information of the dog’s owner or the person responsible.
- Gather the names and contact details of any potential witnesses.
- Seek necessary medical care promptly.
- If possible, document the incident by taking photos of the dog and the location where the bite occurred. It’s also advisable to photograph your injuries before, during, and after medical treatment.
- Inform local animal control authorities and ensure the dog is quarantined for rabies testing. This step may spare you from having to undergo the painful rabies shot process.
Don’t Delay, Act Today
If you’ve been the victim of a dog bite, it’s essential to take immediate action. Not only to protect your own rights but also to prevent others from suffering the same fate. Report the incident to the relevant authorities as soon as possible to ensure the dog’s behavior is properly documented. Contact Garrity Traina’s Sacramento dog bite attorneys to discuss your case and learn what can be done to safeguard others from potential harm.
