Law Office of Jasminder Gill – Dog Bite Lawyer in Costa Mesa
Injured by a Dog Attack?
Dog bites can cause serious physical injuries, infections, and lasting emotional trauma. In California, dog owners are strictly liable when their dog bites someone — meaning they can be held responsible even if the dog has never shown aggression before.
At the Law Office of Jasminder Gill, we represent individuals injured in dog bite attacks and personal injury cases in Costa Mesa, Santa Ana, Irvine, Newport Beach, and throughout Orange County. Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional injuries, including infections, scarring, and long-term trauma. Under California law, dog owners are often strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets. Our firm works to hold negligent dog owners accountable and recover full compensation for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, we are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call 949-416-9080 for a free consultation
California Dog Bite Law
California follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. This means:
• Dog owners are responsible if their dog bites someone
• It does not matter if the dog has never bitten before
• The owner may still be liable even if they were not negligent
This law applies when the victim was lawfully on public or private property.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks can result in serious injuries, including:
• Puncture wounds and lacerations
• Infections
• Nerve damage
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Emotional trauma and anxiety
• Injuries requiring surgery or stitches
Some injuries may require long-term medical treatment or reconstructive procedures.
Where Dog Bite Accidents Happen
Dog bites can occur in many locations, including:
• Public parks
• Sidewalks and neighborhoods
• Apartment complexes
• Private homes
• Walking trails
Even familiar dogs can behave unpredictably in certain situations.
Who Is Liable in a Dog Bite Case?
In most cases, the dog owner is responsible. However, other parties may also be liable depending on the situation:
• Property owners
• Landlords (in certain cases)
• Dog handlers or caretakers
Our firm investigates each case to determine who is responsible and pursue compensation.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
If you are bitten by a dog:
• Seek medical attention immediately
• Clean and treat the wound
• Report the bite to local authorities or animal control
• Take photos of your injuries
• Get information about the dog and owner
• Avoid speaking with insurance companies before consulting an attorney
Taking these steps can help protect your health and your claim.
Compensation Available in Dog Bite Cases
You may be entitled to compensation for:
• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Future medical care
Dog bite cases often involve significant damages due to both physical and emotional impact.
Challenges in Dog Bite Cases
While California law is favorable to victims, challenges may include:
• Disputes over how the incident occurred
• Questions about whether the victim provoked the dog
• Insurance company tactics to minimize claims
Our firm works to build strong cases and protect your rights.
Dog Bite FAQs
Can I sue for a dog bite in California?
Yes. California law allows victims to pursue compensation under strict liability, even if the dog has never bitten before.
What if the dog owner says the bite was my fault?
The owner may still be liable, but your compensation could be affected depending on the circumstances.
What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
Under California law, the owner can still be held responsible regardless of the dog’s history.
Do I need to report a dog bite?
Yes. Reporting the incident helps create a record and may be required for public safety and your claim.
What if the bite happened on private property?
You may still have a claim if you were lawfully on the property when the bite occurred.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in California?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim.
Can I recover compensation for emotional trauma?
Yes. Dog bite victims may recover damages for emotional distress, especially in severe or traumatic cases.
What if a child was bitten by a dog?
Children are common victims of dog bites. These cases are taken very seriously, and compensation may be higher due to long-term impact.
Get Help From a Costa Mesa Dog Bite Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite or animal attack, you don’t have to deal with insurance companies alone.
If you’re searching for a dog bite lawyer near you, The Law Office of Jasminder Gill represents injury victims in Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Santa Ana, Irvine, and throughout Orange County. We are committed to helping clients recover maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and scarring or disfigurement.
Insurance companies often try to minimize claims or dispute liability in dog bite cases. Our firm works to protect your rights, gather evidence, and build a strong case to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.