Dog bites happen fast. If you were bitten or attacked by a dog in West Hollywood, California’s strict-liability law may entitle you to compensation without proving the owner was negligent. The Injury Law Firm investigates each attack, identifies every liable party, and fights for medical bills, lost income, scarring, emotional trauma, and every other loss. You pay nothing unless we win.
California Civil Code Section 3342 makes dog owners liable when their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property—regardless of prior viciousness or the owner’s knowledge. Limited exceptions may apply for trespass, intentional provocation, or certain professionals who assumed the risk. Non-bite injuries can still support a negligence claim. You generally have two years from the attack to file suit, so early investigation matters.
We represent clients with puncture wounds, lacerations, facial and head injuries, infection, rabies-treatment needs, permanent scarring, nerve damage, mobility limitations, and psychological trauma. Children can face especially serious facial injuries and a lasting fear of animals. We connect clients with qualified doctors who document the full physical and emotional impact of the attack.
The dog’s owner is usually the primary defendant, and homeowner’s or renter’s insurance often provides coverage. Landlords may be liable when they knew a dangerous dog was present and failed to act, or controlled the common area where the attack occurred. Property owners, businesses, dog sitters, walkers, and caretakers may also share responsibility. We investigate every source of coverage and every liable party.
Compensation can include emergency care, surgery, medication, rabies shots, reconstructive procedures, therapy, counseling, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and scarring or disfigurement. Settlement value depends on the severity of injuries and available coverage. We negotiate medical bills and do not accept low offers that ignore the full effect of the attack.
Seek medical care immediately, report the attack to LA County Animal Control, photograph injuries and the scene, collect witness information, identify the dog and owner, and avoid giving a recorded statement to the insurer before speaking with counsel. Prompt action protects your health, creates evidence, and helps prevent insurers from disputing the seriousness of your claim.
We investigate every attack, review Animal Control records and dog history, work with medical experts, and negotiate aggressively with insurers. Our clients receive direct attorney communication and trial-ready representation. Every case is handled on a contingency fee basis: no upfront costs and no fee unless we recover compensation.
How long do I have to file? In most cases, California gives you two years from the bite. What if the dog has no bite history? Strict liability applies even if the dog never bit anyone before. Can I claim against a friend or family member? Claims are usually paid by insurance, not directly by the owner. What if I was a lawful guest? Guests, delivery workers, and others with permission are protected. What if the owner is unknown? Report the incident immediately so Animal Control can investigate.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in California? California generally gives you two years from the date of the bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. Investigations take time, so contact us as soon as possible.
Can I sue if my friend’s or family member’s dog bit me? Yes. In most cases, the claim is against the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance—not the person you care about.
What if I was partially at fault? California’s comparative negligence rules may reduce, but do not automatically eliminate, recovery. We fight to minimize unfair blame.
Can my child recover compensation? Yes. Parents may bring claims for children injured in dog attacks, including claims for future reconstructive care and emotional trauma.
What if the dog did not break the skin? You may still have a claim if aggressive behavior caused a fall or another injury through negligence.
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