In California, especially Los Angeles, we love our dogs. We bring them to restaurants, clubs, hikes, and more! And while most dogs are harmless, some are not. In the instance that you are bit by a vicious dog, know that you have legal rights. Dog owners whose dogs bite humans may be subject to criminal penalties and/or civil fines and litigation.
California Dog Bite Law
In California, a victim of a dog bite may able to receive money for damages — or injuries — from the attack. A Los Angeles personal injury lawyer who practices “dog bite law” will evaluate your claims and help you determine what type of financial compensation you could recover.
Paying for Injuries After a Dog Bite
The types of physical injuries a person can suffer from a dog bite are countless and many victims of dog attacks need medical treatment. The severity of injuries can range from deep lacerations requiring stitches to reconstructive surgery performed by a plastic surgeon. Many dog attack victims suffer from permanent scars or other physical injuries. A personal injury lawyer can help recover damages for these obvious injuries.
Dog bites can also result in a number of emotional injuries, such as trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A person can develop PTSD from any situation involving physical harm or the threat of physical harm, and this includes dog bites. Common symptoms of PTSD include nightmares, flashbacks, irrational fears or thoughts, problems with memory, emotional numbness, and depression, guilt, anxiety or withdrawal. In children, symptoms may include bedwetting, acting out, and losing the ability to speak.
Emotional scars can last a lifetime and feel just as painful as physical scars. If you have or a loved one has been bitten by a dog bite, seek professional help. Similarly, if your child has been bitten by an aggressive dog, pay attention to how your child feels and what he or she talks about. Treatment from a mental health professional may be warranted.
An experienced injury lawyer can help you recover money for treatment not only for physical injuries and but for psychological injuries and counseling. For a free, no obligation consultation about your dog accident case, contact the experienced Los Angeles dog bite lawyers at Ghozland Law Firm today.
