Dog Bite Lawyer in Redlands, CA

Suffered a Dog Attack in Redlands? Get in Touch with Us for Guidance

Dogs play a big part in many families across California. While dogs offer companionship, they can cause serious harm when left untrained or neglected. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that there are about 4.5 million dog bites each year nationwide. Most of these incidents do not require hospital visits, but some dog attacks lead to significant injuries. Our dog bite lawyer in Redlands knows how important it is to understand these risks and how they can affect your family.

At Dolen, Tucker, Tierney & Abraham, we have served Inland Empire residents since 1973. Our decades of experience help families recover compensation after severe injuries and wrongful death caused by dog attacks. You can count on our team to provide trusted legal support during these challenging times.

Let our dog bite attorney in Redlands, CA, support you throughout your claim. Give us a call at (909) 473-4948 to schedule a free consultation.

Potential Complications from Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite injuries are different from other types of wounds. They can lead to medical conditions that linger or become costly to treat. 

Here are some common complications:

• Infections - Dog bite wounds can let microbes enter the bloodstream, causing Staph infections or MRSA. Depending on the dog’s health, you may face risks such as rabies. These infections can bring serious illness, amputation, or even death.
• Disfigurement - Dog attacks can leave lasting scars that change how victims look and move. Damage to hands may limit finger movement, and serious wounds can result in amputation. Injuries to the face or neck cause emotional distress on top of physical pain, sometimes causing social difficulties.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - PTSD can follow severe dog attacks. Panic attacks, irrational fears, depression, and flashbacks may trouble victims. Children have a higher risk, but adults may develop PTSD after an attack as well.

Our team understands how serious the complications after a dog bite can be. That is why we work hard to handle your case from start ot finish. Pursuing the compensation you are entitled to.

Who Can Be Held Liable in CA Dog Bite Incidents?

California law sets clear rules about who may be liable in a dog attack case. Legal responsibility might fall on property owners, dog owners, handlers, or even third parties. The specific details of the incident will determine who is accountable. California Civil Code Section 3342 covers dog owner liability and often plays a part in claims seeking compensation.

Sometimes, CACI No. 405, the comparative fault rule, applies. This rule examines the level of responsibility for each person involved. Even if the victim shares some fault, they may still recover damages, but the award could be reduced. Assessing each party’s role is essential for fair results.

Types of Compensation Available After a Dog Bite

Dog bite injuries can set off a series of challenges beyond initial care. Victims in Redlands may need to pay for hospital visits, surgeries, follow-up treatments, and counseling. Many people also lose wages if they can’t work while healing. California law lets injured people recover many losses connected to a dog bite. Compensation may cover direct expenses as well as pain and the impact on daily life.

You may be able to seek repayment for a range of losses after a dog bite:

• Medical costs
• Lost wages
• Lost earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Scarring or disfigurement 
• And more

Our team helps Redlands residents understand what types of compensation they're entitled to, so you can make informed choices about your future.

What Steps Should You Take After a Dog Bite in Redlands?

If a dog bites you or someone in your family, taking careful steps can protect both your health and your right to pursue a claim later. 

Steps to follow include:

1. Move to safety: Get away from the dog to prevent further injury and make sure you're in a secure location.
2. Seek medical attention: Even if the wound seems minor, see a healthcare provider right away, as dog bites can easily become infected.
3. Report the incident: Notify San Bernardino County Animal Care & Control so the bite is officially documented.
4. Document the scene: Take clear photos of your injuries, the location of the bite, and any torn or bloodied clothing.
5. Gather contact information: Obtain the name, phone number, and address of the dog’s owner, as well as any eyewitnesses.
6. Consult an attorney: Reach out to a Redlands dog bite lawyer to understand your legal rights and next steps.

Don’t wait to take action. Early documentation and proper medical care can make a major difference in your ability to pursue compensation. If you're unsure what to do next, consulting our knowledgeable dog bite attorney in Redlands can help guide you through the legal process with confidence.

Why Do You Need a Dog Bite Attorney in Redlands?

Millions of dog bites occur every year. Minor bites may not require much attention, but severe injuries from dog attacks can make it hard to get compensation on your own.

People hurt by a dog bite often need to deal with insurance companies, property owners, and city officials. Sometimes, these parties are also neighbors or acquaintances. This can add stress during an already difficult recovery. Our dog bite lawyer in Redlands steps in to take that burden off your shoulders.

James F. Tierney, III applies years of experience to guide you toward legal options that fit your unique circumstances. Having this support is crucial if medical complications arise while you heal.

Don't handle your claim alone. Let our experienced dog bite attorney in Redlands, CA, support you. Get in touch with us online today.

FAQs

How long do I have to bring a dog bite claim in California?

California law usually allows two years from the date of the dog bite injury to file a claim. Missing this deadline can mean you lose your right to seek damages.

What information should I gather after a dog bite?

Record the dog owner’s contact information, take pictures of your injuries, collect witness names and numbers, and keep all medical records relating to your treatment. This evidence supports your claim if you pursue legal action.

Does the breed of the dog matter for my case?

California law makes dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their animals, no matter the breed. The type of dog typically does not affect your right to pursue claim as long as requirements are met.