Irvine Dog Bite Attorney

Searching for the“best dog bite attorney in Irvine”?

Dog bites are an unfortunate reality. In a city like Irvine, where dog ownership is common, encountering an aggressive dog is a risk many face. Our attorneys can provide invaluable guidance and representation. Our lawyers with extensive experience in dog bite injury cases can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and fight on your behalf to ensure you receive the maximum compensation allowable for your injuries.

Why Irvine Locals Choose Our Dog Bite Attorneys

Hiring a competent dog bite lawyer after an Irvine dog attack is often a gamechanger. Securing the full compensation you deserve is extremely challenging without legal representation. An experienced attorney will work tirelessly on your behalf and exert the required leverage companies need to see to deem going to court too much of a risk over settling for policy limits.

Our dog bite lawyers are trial lawyers, meaning companies know that if they do not negotiate fairly, we will take them to trial where the risks of losing far more become a reality for them. This leverage is an essential part of why Kimura London & White clients receive large settlements in these cases.

Navigating the Complexities of Insurance Claims

After a dog bite, dealing with insurance adjusters is often the last thing you want to do. It's crucial for obtaining the financial resources you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, but there are pitfalls to avoid.

Our attorneys can handle all communications and negotiate effectively to ensure the best possible outcome. They also provide you the information you need to avoid accidentally creating problems in your own case during talks with insurance companies. Insurance companies are looking for any opportunity to weaken your case. We help ensure that does not happen.

Gathering Evidence to Build a Strong Case

Building a strong dog bite case relies heavily on solid evidence. This might involve witness statements, incident reports, medical records, photos, or video footage. This part of the legal process is often tedious and stressful.

Our attorneys thoroughly investigate, locate witnesses, collect evidence, and accurately assess the total damages. They understand the complexities of California's dog bite laws and know what evidence is needed to build a compelling case.

Seeking Fair Compensation for Damages

A dog bite can lead to severe physical and emotional trauma. These injuries sometimes require extensive medical care, including reconstructive surgery. In some cases, the victim may suffer permanent scarring, disfigurement, and lasting psychological distress.

Calculating the total cost of these damages can be complex. Attempting to do this yourself could mean you're severely underestimating your losses. Our attorneys will calculate all economic damages, such as lost income, medical expenses, and future care. They also factor in non-economic damages like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life to help ensure you receive the most compensation possible.

Addressing Common Dog Bite Defenses

Sometimes, a dog owner or their insurance company may attempt to avoid liability by arguing specific defenses, like provocation or trespassing. Our dog bite attorneys are well-versed in these defenses and will use their knowledge to counter them.

If, for instance, the owner claims you provoked their dog, your Irvine personal injury lawyer can gather witness testimonies and present crucial evidence to demonstrate this wasn't the case.

Child Dog Bite Experience & Sensitivity

Dog bites involving children require a special level of sensitivity and expertise. In 2022 alone, a startling 48,596 emergency room visits were reported in California for dog bites. This is a stark increase, highlighting the rising threat dogs pose to public safety, particularly children.

California tragically saw 28 fatalities from dog bites from 2018 to 2022. Children are more vulnerable to serious injuries, and the psychological aftermath of an attack can be particularly challenging.

Our attorneys understand how to advocate for a child's needs and secure appropriate compensation.

We Put California's Strict Dog Bite Law Into Action

California has a "strict liability" law regarding dog bites. This means that if a dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property, the dog's owner is responsible for the injuries. This is true even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.

Unlike some states where you need to prove the owner knew their dog was dangerous, California Civil Code Section 3342 eliminates that burden of proof. Let's say you're walking down the street in Irvine, and a dog jumps out from behind a bush and bites you. Under California's law, the owner is liable, regardless of whether they knew their dog had a tendency to behave this way.

What This Means for Dog Bite Victims

This strict liability standard is designed to protect victims of dog bites. It ensures they are not unfairly burdened with proving the dog owner was negligent. While this law is in place, seeking more than just medical treatment after a dog bite can be complicated.

Our Irvine dog bite lawyers are powerful allies throughout the entire process, from filing your initial complaint to negotiating a fair settlement.

Don't Navigate Dog Bite Laws Alone

After a traumatic experience with a dog bite, you have the right to seek justice. The aftermath can involve emotional stress, physical therapy, and navigating insurance claims. With an experienced law firm in your corner, you're more likely to get a positive outcome in your case.

Remember, seeking legal counsel as soon as possible ensures your rights are protected.

FAQs about Irvine Dog Bite Lawyer

What should I do if a dog bites me in Irvine?

Here's what you should do if you are a dog bite victim:

1. Prioritize your health and safety: Seek medical attention for your injuries, even if they appear minor. Medical records are important to document your injuries.
2. Gather Evidence: Document the incident. Take photos and videos of your injuries, the location, and the dog if possible. Get the contact information for the dog owner and any witnesses.
3. Report the incident: Report the dog bite to Irvine Animal Control or the Irvine Police Department. Their report can be invaluable for building your case and establishing a timeline of events.
4. Consult an Attorney: Contact a lawyer as soon as possible. They will work to ensure your legal rights are protected and advise you on the next steps.

How much does it cost to hire an Irvine dog bite lawyer?

Our dog bite lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win your case. Their fee is then a pre-agreed percentage of the financial compensation you receive. This arrangement makes seeking legal representation more accessible, as you don't have to pay any upfront fees.

What if the dog bite occurred on private property?

Even if the dog bite occurred on private property, the owner may still be liable. California law holds dog owners accountable if you are lawfully on their property at the time of the incident, such as visiting a friend or delivering a package.

Our attorneys can help you understand the specifics of your case. They will review the circumstances surrounding the bite and determine if the owner can be held responsible.

Talk to Our Proven Irvine Dog Bite Attorneys Today 

Being bitten by a dog can be a traumatic experience. These bite injuries can cause pain and suffering, both physically and emotionally. You deserve justice. A knowledgeable and experienced lawyer can make all the difference in your recovery and fight to get the compensation you deserve. Don't hesitate to reach out; your well-being depends on it.

Contact our Irvine dog bite lawyer for a free, no-obligation case review to discuss your options and get the legal advice you need.