Dog Bite Injury Lawyer Serving Los Angeles County

Experienced Legal Representation for Dog Bite and Animal Attack Victims in Southern California

At Pacific Coast Injury Law Center, we recognize the devastating impact that a dog bite or animal attack can have on an individual and their family. While dogs are often beloved pets and companions, it is crucial to remember that they are still animals—and when they act aggressively, the results can be sudden, traumatic, and life-altering.

Dog bite injuries can leave both visible and invisible scars, requiring extensive medical care, emotional support, and legal intervention. If you or someone you love has suffered injuries due to a dog attack in Los Angeles County—including Long Beach, Glendale, or surrounding communities—our dedicated legal team is ready to help. We provide compassionate yet aggressive representation to ensure victims are compensated for their suffering, medical bills, lost wages, and long-term consequences.

Understanding California Dog Bite Laws and Strict Liability

California law is very clear when it comes to dog bite liability. The state follows a “strict liability” rule, meaning a dog’s owner is legally responsible for injuries caused by their pet, regardless of whether the dog had shown previous signs of aggression or had ever bitten anyone before.

Under California Civil Code Section 3342, a dog owner is liable if:

• The bite occurred in a public place, or

• The bite occurred on private property, and the victim was lawfully present (such as a guest, delivery driver, or tenant).

Importantly, the victim does not need to prove the dog was known to be dangerous. It is also not a valid defense for the owner to claim they were unaware of the dog’s potential to bite. This law holds dog owners accountable and provides victims with a legal path to pursue compensation for their injuries.

Who Is Most at Risk for Dog Bites?

While anyone can be attacked by a dog, certain groups are more vulnerable to serious injuries:

• Children, especially under the age of 10, often suffer the most severe injuries due to their smaller size and inability to protect themselves.

• Elderly individuals may be more prone to falls or complications from bite wounds.

• Delivery drivers, mail carriers, and utility workers frequently face dog-related risks while performing their duties on private property.

At Pacific Coast Injury Law Center, we are well-versed in handling cases involving victims from all walks of life and will tailor our legal strategies to meet your unique needs.

Common Injuries Caused by Dog Bites and Attacks

Dog bite injuries can be far more than surface-level wounds. Depending on the severity of the attack and the size of the dog, victims may suffer from:

• Lacerations and puncture wounds – Often deep and painful, these injuries can damage muscles, tendons, and nerves, sometimes requiring stitches, surgery, or even skin grafts.

• Broken or crushed bones – Particularly in attacks by large or strong-jawed dogs, such as pit bulls or German shepherds.

• Infections – Dog mouths contain bacteria, and bite wounds that are not properly treated can result in infections like cellulitis or even sepsis.

• Nerve damage – If a dog’s teeth penetrate deeply enough, nerves can be severed, leading to chronic pain, tingling, or partial paralysis.

• Facial injuries or disfigurement – Bites to the face may require reconstructive surgery and can leave lasting emotional scars, particularly in children.

• Head trauma and fall-related injuries – Larger dogs can knock victims to the ground, causing concussions, fractured hips, dislocated joints, or spinal injuries.

• Emotional and psychological trauma – Many victims suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, or a fear of animals following an attack.

Recoverable Damages in a Dog Bite Injury Case

Victims of dog bites are entitled to pursue full compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Our attorneys at Pacific Coast Injury Law Center will seek recovery for:

• Past and future medical expenses

• Rehabilitation and therapy costs

• Lost income and reduced earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional distress and trauma

• Scarring and disfigurement

• Loss of enjoyment of life

Every case is unique, and we take the time to understand how the injury has affected your health, lifestyle, and livelihood to ensure no damages are overlooked.

What to Do After a Dog Bite Incident

If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog, it’s important to take the following steps to protect your health and your potential legal claim:

1. Seek immediate medical attention – Even if the injury appears minor, dog bites can become infected quickly.

2. Identify the dog and its owner – Get the name, address, and contact information of the dog’s owner.

3. Document the scene – Take photos of the injuries, the dog, the location of the incident, and any torn or bloodied clothing.

4. File a report – Report the bite to your local animal control or police department to create an official record.

5. Avoid speaking to the dog owner’s insurance company – Anything you say could be used to minimize your claim.

6. Contact a qualified dog bite attorney – The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your chances of securing a favorable outcome.

Serving Clients Throughout Los Angeles County and Beyond

From our office in Long Beach, Pacific Coast Injury Law Center proudly serves clients throughout Los Angeles County, including:

• Glendale

• Hollywood

• North Hollywood

• Burbank

• Encino

• Pacoima

• Riverside County

• Ventura County

• And all surrounding communities

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

Dog bite injuries can leave lasting damage—physically, emotionally, and financially. At Pacific Coast Injury Law Center, we are committed to helping you recover and rebuild your life. We will fight to hold negligent dog owners accountable and pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Call 833-30-LA-LAW today or email chris@pcilc.la to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let our experienced legal team stand by your side every step of the way.