Tips on Dog Bite Injuries in California
Dog bites are common, with around 4.5 million injuries each year. Over half of those dog bite injuries happen at home with dogs that are part of the family. However, the rest occur in public or private settings and are dogs owned by others. Understanding the rights of those bitten or injured by dogs in California is essential.
How Do You Keep Visitors Safe When a Dog Is Showing Signs of Aggression?
There are several things a pet owner can do when a dog is showing signs of aggression. Some of the following tips can help.
- Kennel or crate the dog or remove it to a room with a closed door.
- Help the dog to relax before the company comes. This can be done by playing ball with your pet, going for a long walk, and feeding the dog beforehand.
- Children are likelier to be bitten than adults because they don’t always know how to behave around a dog. Ensure your pet is kept away from a visitor’s children tiny ones.
- Keep the dog on a leash.
- If children are allowed around the family pet, ensure adult supervision.
What Does California Law Say About Dog Bite Liability?
Placing the blame for dog bites comes under a specific state statute, either a one-bite law or negligence. The law in California falls under Civil Code section 3342, in which the owner can be held responsible, except for certain circumstances. In the state, dog owners are financially responsible if their dog bites another person. It does not matter whether the bite occurs on private property, such as at the owner’s home or public property.
Exceptions to California Dog Bite Law
The exception lies with members of the military or police when conducting official business. The law applies to invited persons or those with an implied invitation, such as salespersons, the mailcarriers, and others. It does not apply to trespassers.
What Are Some of the Signs That a Dog Might Be Aggressive?
Dogster.com reports that there are often advance signals given by a dog that it is feeling threatened or might bite. These include the following:
- Staying by the owner’s side
- Flicking the tongue and looking away to one side
- Staring and holding the body stiff
- Barking, being whiny, or acting nervous
- Refusing to eat
- Acting listless or skittish
- Urinating or defecating in the house when this behavior is out of the norm
- Licking the lips repeatedly or yawning repeatedly
- Tearing up things in the house when this behavior is abnormal for the dog
Related Articles by Dog Bite Lawyer, Ed Smith:
Rancho Cordova Dog Bite Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Rancho Cordova dog bite lawyer. Dog bites cause severe injuries and can even result in the death of a loved one. If you or a family member has been bitten and faces mounting medical bills, call me for free, friendly advice at (916) 921-6400. If calling long distance, I can be reached at (800) 404-5400 or through my online contact form.
Find out more about my law practice and see reviews by visiting:
For more than 35 years, I have worked as an injury lawyer upholding the rights and obtaining fair compensation for those who have been injured through the negligent actions of another. Among the areas of my practice, I have handled numerous cases, including brain injury and wrongful death.
As a forum member with Million Dollar Advocates, I record settlements and verdicts for clients of a minimum of 1 million dollars.
I am the founder of AutoAccident.com. I built this site to help educate people about car accidents, personal injuries, and wrongful death.
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