Los Angeles Dog Bites

As a Los Angeles accident attorney, I receive frequent questions about dog bites in Los Angeles.  And it's a topic I've discussed before.What does an injured dog bite victim need to prove in California?The answer is found in CACI (civil jury instruction) 463."To establish his/her claim, plaintiff must prove:

1. Defendant owned a dog;
2. That the dog bit plaintiff while he/she was in a public place or lawfully on private property;
3. That plaintiff was harmed; and
4. That defendant's dog was a substantial factor in causing plaintiff's harm".

These elements reflect California's strict liability for dog owners.  Unlike some other states that require a dog to first establish itself as a biter, California imposes civil liability on dog owners the very first time the dog bites someone.Dog bites can be traumatic. Most dog bite victims are young children, and the consequences can impart a lifelong fear of dogs.If you or someone you know was the victim of a Los Angeles dog bite, my office is ready to assist, 24/6.