Dog Bite Incidents

Dog Bite Injuries in Southern California

A dog attack can cause serious physical injuries and lasting emotional trauma, especially for children. Beyond the immediate wounds, victims may face infection, scarring, nerve damage, and the need for reconstructive surgery. At Petrosian Law, PC, we represent dog bite victims throughout Southern California and help them pursue the compensation they are entitled to under California law.

California’s Dog Bite Law

California is a “strict liability” state when it comes to dog bites. In general terms, this means a dog owner can be held responsible for a bite even if the dog had never shown aggression before and even if the owner did nothing wrong — the owner does not get “one free bite.” This makes California’s law more favorable to victims than the law in many other states.

Strict liability generally applies when a person is bitten while lawfully in a public place or lawfully on private property, including the dog owner’s property. Certain situations can affect a claim, which is why it is worth discussing the specific facts with an attorney.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

• Puncture wounds and lacerations
• Infections, including serious bacterial infections
• Nerve and tissue damage
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Emotional trauma, anxiety, and fear of animals

What to Do After a Dog Bite

If you or a loved one has been bitten, the steps you take can affect both your health and any potential claim:

• Seek medical attention immediately — dog bites carry a real risk of infection even when they appear minor.
• Identify the dog and owner if you can, including any available contact information.
• Report the bite to animal control or local authorities.
• Document everything — photos of your injuries and the location, if you are able.
• Get witness information if anyone saw what happened.
• Speak with an attorney before giving a recorded statement or accepting any settlement.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Depending on the facts of your case, recoverable damages may include:

• Past and future medical expenses, including reconstructive surgery
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering and emotional distress
• Scarring and disfigurement

Why Petrosian Law

Vick V. Petrosian spent years litigating at some of California’s most notable plaintiff’s firms before founding Petrosian Law, PC. That experience means you get direct access to a litigator who understands what it takes to pressure insurance companies into fair settlements — and who prepares every case with the seriousness the process demands.

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you. Your initial consultation is always free and confidential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I recover compensation if the dog had never bitten anyone before?

Generally, yes. Because California applies strict liability to dog bites, an owner can be held responsible even if the dog had no history of aggression. The owner does not get a “free” first bite the way they might in some other states.

Who pays for a dog bite claim?

Compensation often comes through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, which may cover dog bite injuries. Part of our job is identifying the available sources of recovery in your case.

What if I was bitten by a friend’s or family member’s dog?

Many people worry about pursuing a claim against someone they know. In most cases, compensation comes from an insurance policy rather than the individual personally. We handle these situations with sensitivity while still protecting your right to recover.

How much does it cost to hire a dog bite lawyer?

Petrosian Law, PC works on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney’s fees upfront and no fees at all unless we recover compensation in your case.