Types of Dog Bite Injuries and Their Impact

Dog bite injuries can range from minor scratches to severe wounds that require extensive medical care. Some of the common injuries we typically encounter in dog bite cases include: 

• Puncture wounds: Puncture wounds are deep and can potentially damage muscles and nerves. 

• Lacerations and abrasions: These can result from either the teeth or claws of a dog and can often lead to permanent scarring. 

• Fractures and broken bones: Larger dogs can bite with significant force, which can potentially lead to broken bones during an attack. 

• Infections: Sometimes, dog bites may lead to serious infections like rabies or tetanus if not treated promptly. 

• Psychological trauma: Victims can commonly experience emotional distress and fear of dogs following an attack. 

The impact of a dog bite goes beyond physical injuries; it can affect a victim's emotional well-being and quality of life. If you or someone you know has been injured from a dog bite, you can file a personal injury claim to pursue compensation for your injuries. 

Potential Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries 

If you've been bitten by a dog, you may be eligible to recover compensation to help cover the cost of your medical treatment and the impact the dog bite had on your quality of life. At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, our goal is to help ensure you receive comprehensive compensation for the following: 

• Medical expenses: These cover immediate and ongoing treatment costs, including surgeries, hospital stays, medications, physical and psychological therapy, and ongoing rehabilitation. 

• Lost income: If the injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and any reduction in earning capacity if the injuries limit your ability to work. 

• Pain and suffering: Compensation may be provided to address the emotional distress and physical trauma caused by the attack. 

• Property damage: Repair or replacement of personal items damaged during the attack. 

To pursue compensation properly, it's crucial to work with an experienced dog bite attorney. Our skilled lawyers strive to help victims gather the necessary evidence to substantiate their case and pursue the desired compensation. 

Why Choose the Law Offices of Steven Zwick? 

At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, we understand the distress a dog bite can cause and we're dedicated to providing compassionate, informed legal representation. Some of the ways our firm can help include the following. 

• Case evaluation: We'll carefully examine the details surrounding your incident and provide you with a comprehensive overview of your potential claim. 

• Evidence collection: We will help you gather evidence from the scene of the attack, medical records, incident reports, and witness statements to help solidify your claim. 

• Collaboration with experts: We will work with medical specialists, animal behavior experts, and other professionals to help substantiate your case and provide insights into the severity of your claim. 

• Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurers may often try to minimize settlements. Our team is skilled in negotiating to ensure you receive fair compensation. 

• Court litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, our seasoned litigators are prepared to take your case to trial and advocate tirelessly for your rights. 

At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, our priority is to help relieve the challenges of filing a personal injury claim so you can concentrate on what matters most: healing and recovery. 

Dog Bite FAQ

What should I do immediately after a dog bite?

Seek medical attention immediately after a dog bite. Thoroughly clean the wound with soap and water to remove any dirt or bacteria and apply an antiseptic or antibiotic ointment if available.  

Once you have administered first aid, contact your local animal control authorities to report the incident. Provide them with detailed information about the animal involved, including its appearance, behavior, and location where the incident occurred.  

If possible, note whether the animal is a stray or has an owner. This information is essential for animal control officers to assess the risk of rabies or other diseases and to take appropriate action to ensure public safety. 

How much time do I have to file a lawsuit for a dog bite?

The statute of limitations in California for filing a personal injury lawsuit due to a dog bite is generally two years from the date of the attack. It is critical to initiate your claim within this time frame to preserve your right to seek compensation. Missing this deadline could prevent you from recovering the damages you deserve.  

Can I still pursue a claim if the dog owner is a friend or family member? 

Yes, you can still file a claim even if the dog's owner is someone you know personally. In most cases, compensation will be paid by the owner's homeowner's insurance policy. 

Orange County Dog Bite Attorney

Dog bites can have severe physical and emotional consequences for victims. California's strict liability laws are designed to protect victims and hold pet owners accountable. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite, it's important to understand your rights and seek legal assistance to pursue proper compensation.  

At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, we are committed to helping clients throughout Orange County recover from dog bite injuries. If you've been bitten by a dog in Mission Viejo, California, or the surrounding areas, contact our firm today. We offer free consultations to discuss your rights and potential claims and help you take your first step towards recovery.