San Mateo, California, Dog Bite Injury Lawyer
Working for Victims of Dog Bites and Other Animal Attacks
Injuries from dog bites and other animal attacks can be severe and have serious long-term consequences, regardless of the specific dog breed or other circumstances. If you or your child has been bitten or otherwise seriously injured by a dog or other animal, contact attorney Reuben J. Donig to discuss your case and the best action to take.
Not Just Vicious Dogs — Not Always Child Victims — Injuries Beyond Bites
Dog bites and animal maulings occasionally receive prominent, even national news coverage — in part because many victims are children and the wounds and other consequences are often unexpectedly extreme. Some other important considerations include:
- Wounds from a dog bite — or even a cat bite — can cause visible scarring and sometimes the need for reconstructive cosmetic surgery.
- Cases of severe mental consequences including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have been reported after dog bites.
- Almost any dog — not just dogs known to be vicious or dangerous — can bite and cause injury, and adults as well as children incur serious injuries in these attacks.
- Animal attacks often result in injuries other than bite wounds, including serious back and joint injuries that occur in attempting to elude the animal.
Homeowners' Insurance Is a Primary Means of Recovery
If homeowners' insurance exists or another source of recovery can be identified, the chances of obtaining significant financial compensation for a dog bite or other injury caused by someone's pet are usually good. California premises liability is generally favorable for these types of claims and it is often difficult for the dog owner to dispute that the attack occurred.
Take Immediate Action After a Dog Bite or Animal Attack
Getting prompt, appropriate medical attention for the victim, and notifying the police or animal control authorities, are important steps to take when a dog bites. As with other personal injury claims, you should definitely contact an experienced attorney before discussing any insurance settlement.
