California Dog Bite Law: Your Guide to Rights and Responsabilities

What Happens If a Dog Bites Someone in California?

In California, dog owners are subject to strict liability laws. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner is responsible for the victim’s injuries, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression. The law applies to bites that occur in public places or when the victim is lawfully on private property, such as a guest in the dog owner’s home. Even if the dog bite occurs in the owner’s yard, as long as the victim was legally on the property, the owner will likely be held liable.

Key Takeaway: Dog owners cannot use the defense that their dog has never bitten anyone before. California law does not require proof of prior vicious behavior to hold an owner responsible.

Dog Bite Injury Scale and Severity

Dog bite injuries are categorized using a classification system that ranges from minor incidents to fatal attacks. Understanding the severity of a dog bite can influence your case and the compensation you may be entitled to:

• Level 1: Aggression with no skin contact.
• Level 2: Teeth make contact but do not puncture the skin; may include scratches.
• Level 3: One to four puncture wounds, none deeper than half the dog’s canine teeth.
• Level 4: Deep punctures, with at least one puncture deeper than half the length of the dog’s canine teeth.
• Level 5: Multiple deep bites or repeated attacks causing severe injuries.
• Level 6: Fatal bites resulting in the victim’s death.

Note: Levels 4 and higher indicate dangerous dogs that may be difficult to rehabilitate. California law allows for serious measures, including euthanasia, for dogs that pose a continuing threat to public safety.

What to Do If Your Dog Bites Someone

If your dog bites someone, it’s crucial to act immediately:

1. Provide Medical Assistance: Ensure the victim receives medical care.
2. Exchange Contact Information: Legally, you must provide your name, address, and the dog’s medical history, including vaccination status, within 48 hours.
3. Report the Incident: You are required to report the bite to local animal control, especially if the bite breaks the skin. Failing to do so can have legal consequences.
4. Quarantine Your Dog: Your dog may need to be quarantined for at least 10 days to ensure it does not have rabies.

Dog Bite Compensation and Homeowners Insurance

Victims of dog bites in California may be entitled to compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Covers treatments, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional trauma.
• Lost Wages: If the injury prevents the victim from working, they can seek compensation for lost earnings.
• Permanent Disability or Scarring: Compensation for lasting physical damage.
• Psychological Impact: Anxiety, PTSD, or fear of dogs may also be covered.

In many cases, a dog owner’s homeowners insurance will cover dog bite claims. However, some policies may exclude specific breeds known for aggressive behavior, such as pit bulls or rottweilers. If there is no insurance coverage, the dog owner remains personally liable for all damages.

What If My Dog Bites Another Dog?

If your dog attacks another dog, California law holds you responsible for any veterinary expenses incurred by the injured dog’s owner. The dog bite dog law in California also applies when a dog attacks another canine. If your dog bites or injures another dog, you may have to cover the costs of medical treatment for the injured pet.

Steps to Take:

1. Exchange Information: Similar to a human injury case, get the other owner’s contact details and provide yours.
2. Assess the Injuries: Seek immediate veterinary attention for the injured dog.
3. Document the Incident: Take photos and gather witness statements if possible.

What to Do If Another Dog Attacks Your Dog

If your dog is attacked by another dog, you may be able to file a claim against the aggressive dog’s owner. To press charges or sue, you must demonstrate that the other dog was unprovoked and the owner failed to control their pet. Compensation can cover veterinary bills and, in some cases, emotional distress if the incident severely traumatized your dog.

Key Considerations:

• Gather Evidence: Document the scene, injuries, and any negligence on the part of the attacking dog’s owner.
• Seek Legal Counsel: An attorney can help you determine whether you can pursue damages or if you should press charges.

Reporting Dog Bites and Legal Implications

It’s crucial to report any dog bite or attack to local authorities. This not only ensures public safety but also helps establish liability. If the dog owner tries to avoid responsibility, having a documented report can strengthen your case.

Violating Reporting Laws: If a dog owner fails to provide information about a biting incident or vaccination status, they could face fines and other penalties.

Special Circumstances: Police and Military Dogs

Police and military dogs are generally exempt from standard liability rules. However, if you believe a police dog used excessive force, you may have grounds to challenge the incident under the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable search and seizure.

Is It Legal to Kill a Dog in California?

Under California law, it is legal to kill a dog if it poses an imminent threat to human life, limb, or property. Animal control officers may also euthanize dogs deemed dangerous, but strict protocols must be followed.