Los Angeles Dog Bite Attorney

Need a dog bite lawyer in Los Angeles County?

Have you or a loved one been injured by a dog and need a dog bite lawyer? Our Los Angeles County dog bite attorneys have five office locations: Los Angeles, Pasadena, Long Beach and Santa Monica. We can also come to you. Whether you were bitten by a dog or knocked over by a dog, you should speak with an attorney about your right to compensation for your injuries, including any emotional distress that you suffered.

Experienced Dog Bite Lawyers Serving Southern California

Daniel McGee and Catherine Lerer are a husband and wife team of dog bite attorneys with decades of combined experience. Representing injury victims is all we do. You benefit from our year's of expertise.

Our No Fee Pledge

We have a no fee guarantee: if you hire our firm, there is no upfront fee, and no fee whatsoever unless we win your case. We are paid at the end of the case, out of the money we collect for you. Our fee is a percentage of what we collect for you.

Dog Bite Law in California

In California, a dog owner is strictly liable to pay full compensation to a dog bite victim. It is no defense that the dog had never shown prior viciousness or that the dog was on a leash. 

To prove liability, the victim must prove that the defendant owned the dog and that the dog bit the victim while the victim was in a public place or lawfully on private property.

Common Dog Breeds Involved in Bites

Certain dog breeds are more often involved in biting incidents, though it’s important to remember that any dog can bite. Factors like training, environment, and the dog's history play a significant role in aggression. That said, some breeds are more commonly reported in bite statistics, including:

• Pit Bulls: Often in the news for serious attacks due to their strength and aggressive tendencies if not properly trained.
• Rottweilers: Known for their protective instincts, Rottweilers can become territorial and aggressive if they feel threatened.
• German Shepherds: Used for work like police and military, they are protective by nature and can bite when guarding their home or family.
• Chihuahuas: Though smaller, Chihuahuas are known for being feisty and aggressive, often displaying biting behavior when frightened.
• Dachshunds: Another small breed that may bite due to possessiveness or fear.

Understanding these breed tendencies can help prevent incidents and give victims insight into potential claim details.

Preventing Dog Bites

Preventing dog bites is key to ensuring the safety of both people and pets. Here are a few tips for dog owners and the public:

• Train Your Dog: Proper training from an early age helps reduce aggressive tendencies. Socializing your dog with other people and animals is crucial.
• Supervise Interactions: Never leave children alone with dogs, especially unfamiliar ones. Always supervise playtime and teach kids how to approach animals safely.
• Respect Boundaries: Don’t approach a dog that is eating, sleeping, or protecting something (like toys or their territory). Respect their space.
• Leash Your Dog: Always keep dogs on a leash when in public places to avoid sudden outbursts or confrontations with other animals or people.

By following these simple practices, you can help prevent bites and ensure safer interactions.

Insurance Coverage for Dog Bites

In most cases, the dog owner’s insurance will cover the costs associated with a dog bite. Here’s how it works:

• Homeowner's Insurance: Many policies cover dog bite incidents, as the dog is typically considered part of the household. If someone is bitten on your property, your homeowner’s insurance may cover medical bills and legal fees.
• Renter's Insurance: Similar to homeowner’s insurance, renter’s insurance often includes liability coverage for dog bites, especially if the dog is part of the rental property.

However, if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance or if the policy doesn't cover dog bites, it can complicate the situation. In such cases, the victim might need to seek compensation directly from the dog owner, which can be difficult if they lack financial resources. Consulting an attorney helps ensure the victim explores all possible avenues for compensation.