Any animal can become aggressive and attack, even dogs. Various triggers will cause different dogs to attack or bite others at any given time. Additionally, certain breeds of dogs have been deemed more aggressive than others, resulting in more attacks on humans.
In California, dog bites are taken very seriously. These bites can transmit rabies, which is very serious for humans and other animals. Reporting the bite, with the help of a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, allows you to get the help you need for your injuries and future health.
Reporting a Dog Bite in California
The state of California requires you to report a dog bite after you or someone you love is attacked or bitten. First, you must contact a local animal control agency, who will then connect you to the proper health official. These health officials will begin their official investigations into your attack within 24 hours of the time you are bitten.
Taking this step is the most effective course of action, and assistance can be taken. However, if your dog attacks someone else, animal control will likely keep it in a ten-day quarantine. This way, it can be looked after to ensure that no rabies was present at the time of the bite. Not reporting a bite from your own animal could lead to misdemeanor charges in California.
What Is Considered a Dog Bite in California
Many might think a dog bite is quite straightforward, but in California, it’s specifically defined. According to the California Code, a dog bite here is legally recognized as any time a dog makes contact with a person via its mouth. This contact does not even need to break the skin or draw blood. California will still consider a dog bite a dog bite, even if there are no injuries.
Rabies Zones in California
When you get bit by a dog in California, it’s best to report the entire situation to a local health official. It’s the law to report these bites if you are living in a “rabies area.” These rabies areas have been deemed present in local counties since 1987, and most counties are considered “Rabies areas.” This means that by law, you will likely need to report a dog bite.
All 58 counties in California are declared rabies zones, meaning the entire state is at risk for rabies transmission. This virus is transmitted through bites from infected animals, such as raccoons, skins, bats, and foxes. Rabies isn’t found much in domestic animals, but it can sometimes affect them.
If a domestic animal comes into contact with an infected animal or infected livestock, they can sometimes transmit the disease. This means that when a dog gets rabies and bites a human, it can reap serious health concerns.
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Liability in Dog Bites
Under California Law, the power of the animal is subject to liability, even if the bite doesn’t break the skin, cause injuries, or draw blood. In California, it is strictly liable for all damages or injuries inflicted by their dogs.
If you have been attacked or bitten by another person’s dogs, it’s best to report the incident and get the help of a skilled dog bite lawyer. These legal professionals will know exactly what to do following this type of injury and can hold the owner accountable for their dog’s actions.
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Steps to Take Following a Dog Bite
Getting attacked or bitten by a dog in California isn’t something to be taken lightly. There are a few steps that one should take in order to make sure they are safe, their health is taken care of, and the dog and its owner are held responsible.
Here are some recommended steps to follow after a dog bite:
- Get medical attention as soon as possible. Even if the dog bite seems minor, it’s important to visit a healthcare professional to determine if rabies has been passed or if antibiotics are needed. If the injuries are severe, call 911 and get medical assistance quickly.
- Identify the dog and its owner by obtaining their contact information. Get specific details about the dog and all owners’ contact information. Any other details about the bite or the situation will be helpful in the future.
- Report the incident. By contacting animal control and your local health department, you can state what has happened and report the dog and its owner. Provide these individuals with all the details you’ve gathered about the owner, the dog, and the situation.
- Document the incident for personal purposes. Keeping detailed records of your injuries, the dog bite, and other details can help if you wish to press charges for serious injuries or damages. Saved copies of medical records, prescriptions, and relevant documents can be used throughout the legal process.
- Contact a skilled dog bite lawyer from Venerable Injury Law. Our team at Venerable Injury Law can provide guidance on your case and offer real solutions so that you can recover easily.
Get the Help You Need After a Dog Bite Today
Some dog bites barely break skin and need no medical attention, whereas others are serious and can cause bad injuries or trauma to the victim. In California, the law is very strict and clear when it comes to dog bites, leaving the dog and its owner responsible. Reporting the bite correctly and in a timely manner with the help of a skilled lawyer can be the best thing for you and your injuries.
At Venerable Injury Law, we have seen these cases before and know exactly what to do. We can speak with insurance companies and offer our support in this area of personal injury law. By contacting our team, you can receive a free case evaluation so that we can give you real assistance and real
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