Sonoma Dog Bite Lawyer

Puncture wounds, deep lacerations, and a lifelong fear of dogs are just a few of the physical and mental injuries sustained after a dog bite or attack. Dogs are often referred to as man’s best friend, but bites and attacks are quite common throughout Sonoma. When they happen, injured individuals can file a claim against the dog owner to recover compensation for their medical bills, lost income, and more. You will face many challenges when filing a dog bite claim, though. Our Sonoma dog bite lawyer can help you overcome them.

No one is required to work with a dog bite lawyer when they file a claim. However, doing so is just one way you can make sure that you obtain the full compensation you deserve. Research has shown that when an accident victim has legal representation, they will recover approximately three times more in compensation than those who file a claim on their own. An attorney can handle every aspect of your claim, but some of the main legal steps include the following:

• Collecting evidence to prove your case
• Locating witnesses who saw the attack and are willing to testify about what happened
• Determining who owns the dog
• Reporting the bite or attack to animal control authorities
• Recovering the incident report
• Collecting medical records
• Negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf

All of the above steps are important to protect your best interests and make sure your rights are upheld. A Sonoma dog bite lawyer can handle all aspects of your claim so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.

The vast majority of personal injury cases in Sonoma are based on another person’s negligence, or carelessness. Claims involving dog bites, though, are not. Unlike several other states, California does not follow a one-bite rule that states dog owners are only responsible for a bite or attack if the animal has bitten or attacked someone in the past. You also do not need to show that the dog owner knew of the dog’s aggressive or violent tendencies. Still, there are important elements of proof in dog bite claims, and they are as follows:

• The defendant owns the dog or was in control of the dog at the time,
• You were bitten or attacked while lawfully on private or public property,
• You sustained injuries, and
• Your injuries were caused by the bite or attack

It is important to highlight the fact that it is not only dog owners who can be held responsible for a dog bite. Anyone who had control over the dog at the time, such as a dog walker, caretaker, or landlord, can also be held liable.

If you have been injured, a dog bite attorney in Sonoma at Brod Law Firm has the experience and expertise to help you obtain the full settlement you are entitled to. Call us now at (800) 427-7020 or contact us online to schedule a free review of your case.